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How to Hang Choir Mics

Hanging microphones for a choir requires special techniques. Unlike an orchestra, where the sound is emitted in various directions, choirs project their sound in the same forward direction. This makes it somewhat easier to set up microphones for a choir, with some basic knowledge of where to place them. The choir needs to be covered accurately and completely for best results.

Select the correct microphone for choir use. A cardioid condenser microphone is preferable since it is unidirectional and will provide a rich, warm sound.

Determine the number of microphones you need. A general rule is that one microphone is needed for every 16 singers. Don't use more than necessary, since interference between the microphones can be a problem. Professional choirs usually require three microphones spaced about three times the distance between the sound source and the first mic.

Attach the microphones to rafters or metal rods placed high above the singers, and adjust the height so that each microphone is approximately 2 feet above the heads of the back-row singers. This will allow the sound of the entire choir to travel without overemphasizing any one singer.

Place the microphones in front of the choir approximately 3 feet from the front row of singers and 1/3 of the way in from the sides of the choir. Make sure to follow the rule that mics should be spaced three times the distance between the source of the sound and the mic. For this setup, the mics should be 9 feet apart.

Tips


  • Do not place the microphones any closer than 2 feet from the front of the choir or you will not get a balanced sound and individual voices will begin to stick out.
  • Do not place the microphones any further than 3 feet from the front of the choir or the sound will be muffled and unclear
  • If there are more than 12 singers in the front row, either redistribute them or use three microphones; two microphones are usually enough.




Sennheiser USA: Choir Miking [http://www.sennheiserusa.com/houses-of-worship-audio-sound-systems_Tips-And-Tricks_Choir-Miking]
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