Frontline FOH Audio Guide

Click here for a video guide on FOH Audio!

Getting Started

1. If not already powered up, follow guide here.
2. Turn on the soundboard (Push-button on the back right)
3. If not already logged in, select the user “Admin” password is 8392
4. Unlock the audio computer (Password under keyboard )
5. Quit Reaper (CMD + Q ) (This step is not be neccesary now that we are using Dante)
6. Reopen Reaper (Icon located in dock at bottom of the screen)
   1. Select still evaluating
   2. Don’t download the updates
7. Press the Scene button on the sound board and reload the relevant scene for service/event
8. Grab all mics and packs needed for the service from the gear room and place them on stage or in the tech booth for communicator mics

Turning OFF THE SYSTEM

1. Save your scene
2. Save Reaper (CMD + S )
3. Do steps one and two again =)
4. Follow the system off procedure found here.
5. Ensure all microphones and wireless packs are plugged into their respective chargers behind the stage

Safeties, Consistencies, Freedoms

Safeties

1. Preamp Gain Setting
   • Preamp gain should be checked and set for every input during rehearsal. Peak below 0 dB to prevent clipping and distortion while maintaining adequate headroom.
   • Ensure enough fader control by keeping channel faders in an optimal range (e.g., between -10 dB and 0 dB).
2. Volume Management
   • The mix should sound loud and full while staying within the church’s volume standards.
   • Use Open Sound Meter to verify levels: Full band should reach 95 dBA and 105 dBC to maintain energy while ensuring a comfortable listening level. Keep speaking portions at an appropriate, consistent level (~75-85 dBA).
3. Master Fader at Unity
   • For consistency and simplicity, the main mix output should remain at unity (0 dB). If overall volume needs adjustment, tweak individual channel levels instead of moving the master fader.
4. Lobby and Outside Audio
   • Ensure the background playlist is running before and after service at an appropriate level (~70-75 dBA) to maintain the room atmosphere.
   • Lobby audio should be turned on and at a consistent volume to match the sanctuary’s level while avoiding excessive loudness or distortion.
5. Feedback Elimination
   • Proactively eliminate feedback by applying:
     • Proper mic technique (ensure speakers and vocalists hold mics correctly and avoid cupping).
     • Balanced gain structure (no unnecessary boosting).
     • Surgical EQ adjustments (cut problem frequencies rather than just reducing gain).
     • Gating on open mics (but not aggressively, to maintain natural sound).
6. Vocal Effects During Speaking Portions:
   • All reverb, delay, and modulation effects on vocals should be turned down or off during speaking moments (e.g., transitions, prayer, sermon).
7. Autotune Adjustment:
   • Ensure Autotune (if used) is set to the correct key for each song.
   • Double-check with the worship leader if unsure of the key changes between or during songs.

Consistencies

1. Speaking Mic Clarity
   • Speaking mics should always be clear, warm, and loud enough for an easy listening experience over extended periods.
   • Use gentle compression to maintain even levels.
   • Apply subtle EQ shaping to remove mud (low mids) and enhance articulation (upper mids).
2. Vocal Prioritization
   • Lead vocalist should be the most prominent voice in the mix.
   • Background vocals should blend to support the melody, adding energy without overpowering the lead.
   • Use compression and EQ to separate background vocals from the lead.