Sound Advice: Mix it Up!

Previous Image « » Next Image

My first experience in video involved producing audio for a one-hour, live, multi-camera television program. Many times, there were dozens of microphones, both wired and wireless. And don't forget audio playback, from both cassette tape and reel-to-reel. Don't laugh; it was a really long time ago! The point is, we had to combine audio elements from a wide variety of sources, on the air, live, every week. And sometimes, it was scary. By contrast, much of the video sound I deal with today is single or, at most, two microphones. One person serves as director, camera operator and audio mixer. And if there's a mistake, the scene can be done again - comfortable territory for a video producer.

If the thought of mixing audio from multiple sources makes your palms sweaty, relax. There are some specific tools and techniques you'll have to learn, but the finished product is worth the effort and the experience will serve you well for years to come.

The Venues
Before we discuss the hardware required to create a multi-microphone audio mix, let's consider the various types of events and locations where you might need such a mix. In generic terms, they fall into three categories, but there is quite a bit of overlap depending on the specific event you're…