Tutorials

How to Convert VHS to Digital

Your precious memories stored in VHS tapes are at risk. Research has shown that VHS tapes can deteriorate in as little as 10 years due to magnetic decay. That’s considering it’s stored in an ideal environment with a humidity between 40-50% and temperatures between 64-70°F (18-21°C).

If you haven’t converted your family’s early memories to digital files, you should do it as soon as possible. And if you are reading this post, you are considering the importance of doing so before it’s too late.

This post will show you a couple of methods you can use to convert your VHS tapes to digital and store them permanently in a format that won’t lose quality over the years and can be easily shared with friends and family with the push of a button.

Additionally, I will show you the devices you need to turn your old tapes into digital videos by yourself at home, saving you hundreds, even thousands of dollars if your collection is quite large. Let’s get started.

Two Simple Ways to Convert Your Old VHS Tapes to Digital

Turning your old tapes into digital videos is an easy task if you have the correct tools. The two best methods are:

Using a video/audio capture device – Needs a computer
Using a standalone digital video capture/recorder – No computer needed

Please note that you need to have a VCR to play the tapes and convert them to digital. The information presented in this post also applies if you want to convert your old camcorder tapes, Video8, Hi8, or any other analog or digital video recordings. Still, you need to play these tapes to convert them using the capture device or recorder.

Basically, the way we will do this is to take the analog video/audio signal coming from the VHS player, digitize it, and store it in either the universal H.264 digital video format or MP4 video format. Choosing a video format to store your VHS videos will depend on the type of converter you select.

These formats are ready for Windows and Mac computers. They are also supported by Android smartphones, iPhones, iPads, smart TVs, and any video editing software of your choice.

Want to upload the converted videos to social media or the cloud? No problem, the converted digital files can be used in any social media platform, including YouTube.

1. Using a Video Capture Device to Convert VHS Tapes to Digital Format

In this case, the purpose of using a video capture device is to take the video and audio feed from the VRC player, digitalize it, encode it to H.264 or MP4 digital video format and transmit it to a computer through the USB cable.

Most video capture cards used for converting VHS to digital come with bundled software offering simple tools that allow you to trim the beginning and end of the captured video. Some also include enhancement tools to bring back to life old videos.

Here is a list of the best VHS to digital video/audio capture devices available in the market today (links to Amazon):

To connect the video capture with your VCR, follow these steps:

Using the included RCA cable, plug the yellow, red, and white cables into the corresponding connector on the VCR player.
The other side of the RCA cable, connect it to the video capture card as shown in the diagram below.
On your computer, install the included software.
Connect the USB cable from the capture device to the computer. After a few seconds, you should see a pop-up message on your computer saying that the connected device is installed and ready to use.
Open the application software you installed, and follow the on-screen instructions to select the screen resolution and video format of your choice. The most common is MP4.
- If there are no on-screen instructions, go to settings and select the correct on-screen resolution and video format.
Turn the VCR on and insert a VHS tape to start playing.
Click the record button to convert the video/audio feed from the VCR into digital format.
Run a short test to make sure everything works as intended.
At this point, you can start playing each tape through the converter to change it to digital format.
Once the VHS tape has been converted, save the video file with the name of your choice.
Repeat steps 6-10 for each VHS tape that you wish to convert into digital format.

Connection Diagram to Convert VHS Tapes to Digital Format Using a Capture Device

2. Using a Standalone Digital Video Capture/Recorder to Convert VHS Tapes to Digital

Another way to turn your old VHS tapes into digital videos without the need for a computer is by using a standalone digital video capture and recorder.

Basically, this device comes with everything you need inside a small form factor. It accepts any input source with RCA Composite or S-Video and offers HDMI output with a 1280x720p60 resolution if you want to connect it to a TV.

Standalone converters feature a 3.5” LCD display for preview and playback. You can record directly to an SD card or USB Flash Drive plus it comes with built-in speakers to monitor the audio as it is recorded.

If you are looking for an easy way to convert your old VHS tapes to digital without the need for a computer and dealing with software installations, using a standalone digital video converter is your best choice. Here are the best ones available in the market today (links to Amazon):

If you decide to go this route, here are the steps to connect the video capture/recorder with your VCR:

Using the included RCA cable, plug the yellow, red, and white cables into the corresponding connector on the VCR player.
The other side of the RCA cable, connect it to the video capture/recorder device as shown in the diagram below.
Connect the included power supply to the wall and use the USB cable to feed power to the unit.
Turn on the video capture device.
Go to the menu and scroll down until you find Video Source and select AV if you want to use RCA cable or S-Video to use the S-Video connection. You can also use the menu to change the language, time, and other settings such as aspect ratio and video format.
You can use either an SD card or a USB flash drive to record the signal feed. It is also possible to use an external hard drive as long as it has its own power supply.
To select the type of memory you are going to use, go to the menu and scroll down until you find Default Storage Device. Choose between SD or USB.
Insert an SD card or flash drive into the corresponding slot.
- Please note: the device might ask you to format the memory card or flash drive. Doing so will erase anything stored on the card or flash drive. Please make sure you don’t have any critical information on them before accepting to format.
Turn the VCR on and insert a VHS tape to start playing.
Click the record button to convert the video/audio feed from the VCR into digital format.
Run a short test to make sure everything works as intended.
At this point, you can start playing each tape through the converter to change it to digital format.
Once the VHS tape has been converted, save the video file with the name of your choice.
Repeat steps 9-13 for each VHS tape you wish to convert to digital format.

Note: This procedure can be used to convert to digital format any video source from devices such as camcorders, Video8, Hi8, even old video game consoles can be connected to this device, and because it outputs HDMI, you can see the video feed in bigger TV screens. Just know that when the HDMI cable is connected, the 3.5” screen turns off.

Connection Diagram to Use a Standalone Video Converter

Connection Diagram to Convert VHS Tapes to Digital Format Using a Standalone Video Converter/recorder

Standalone Video Converter Review

Video Credits: JetskiPilot Gaming

Tips to Get Better Results When Converting your VHS Tapes to Digital Format

To get the best possible video quality, your VHS player needs to be in good condition. This means that its magnetic heads need to be clean and calibrated.

To clean the heads is pretty simple. All you have to do is use a VHS head cleaner, insert it into the VHS player and let it run for a few minutes. Then you would remove it and play your tapes.

You’ll know if the heads need alignment if the video that is being played flickers and you see lines on the screen. In some cases, flickering video with lines is also due to the tapes being damaged. But most of the time, flickering lines on the screen are a tell-tale sign that the tape path needs calibration.

Calibrating or aligning the heads is a more complicated process than cleaning the heads. To do this, you would need to find a technician who has the tools and knowledge to do it.

If you are up to calibrating it yourself, you can find some video tutorials on YouTube that walk you through the process of aligning the tape’s path using a TV and a screwdriver. But please keep in mind that if the process is not done correctly, the problem could worsen or even damage the heads.

Aligning the Tape Path on a VHS Player – D.I.Y

Here is a video I found on YouTube in12voltvids channel showing the process on how to align the tape path.

Video Credits: 12voltvids

If your old VCR has mechanical issues such as tapes that won’t play, rewind, fast forward, or eject, it might need repair or replacement.

Nowadays, due to VCRs not being popular because they are old technology, it might be hard to find a place to fix it, and it might not be worth it. If that’s your case, then buying a new one would be the most cost-effective way.

If you are in the market for buying a new VCR, here are the links to the most popular brands available on Amazon:

How to Store Your Digital Video Library

Once you are done converting your VHS tapes to digital, it is vital to have at least three different backups. Digital data can be lost easily if not stored properly. Viruses, hard drive failures, ransomware attacks, accidental computer damage, etc., can destroy your important data. And if you don’t have a backup in place, you lose it all.

Let’s say you store all of your VHS collection on a hard drive. Then one day, you decide you want to watch your videos, and when it is connected to your computer or TV, it gives you an error. Or the drive gets damaged by accidentally dropping it. What to do now? If you don’t have a backup, your data is lost.

This is why it is recommended to have at least three separate backups, and one of those backups should be in a different location, ideally in the cloud. You can have your data stored on a computer. Then as a second layer of backup protection, you can have an external hard drive as cold storage.

In case you don’t know, cold storage refers to the storage of inactive data that is rarely used or accessed. In other words, your cold storage hard drive should be offline, not connected to any computer, and only accessed every few months to ensure the drive’s health.

The last recommended layer of data protection to store your newly converted VHS tapes to digital is to use cloud storage.

Services such as Google Drive, Microsoft’s One Drive, Apple’s iCloud, pCloud, etc., can be used to store your important data in the cloud. This will protect you against losing important files in case of computer viruses, ransomware attacks, accidental computer or hard drive damage, etc.

If the free options don’t provide you with enough space, you can easily upgrade for a few dollars a month, and believe me, when the time comes, you will be glad you did.

Taking these precautions with your digital data will ensure that you always have a backup if the worst happens.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to converting your precious memories stored on decaying VHS tapes, you are racing against time. The longer you wait, the worst it will get.

If your VHS collection is older than 10 years old, then you should consider converting your VHS to digital as soon as possible,

If you already have a VCR player, all you have to do is follow any of the two options presented in this article and do it as a weekend project. You will be glad you did once you know that your memories are safe on two, even three, different digital storage devices.

How to Connect an XLR Mic to a Computer

So, you have a microphone with an XLR connector and want to connect it to the computer, but you are not sure how to do so? In this post, I will present three methods that explain step by step how to connect an XLR microphone to a computer.

Whether it is a dynamic or condenser mic, you will be able to use it with your computer to record, stream, or simply get better audio with your Zoom or Skype calls.

A Couple of Things to Consider Before We Start

Connecting an XLR microphone to a computer is not as simple as attaching a cable from the mic to the PC’s 3.5mm mic/headset input.

First, you will need to figure out if the mic is a condenser or dynamic. Condenser microphones are commonly used in professional and home recording studios. They have a wide frequency range and are known for being very sensitive in picking even the most subtle nuances in sound. This means they will pick up clearer, more precise audio with greater volume depths.

Dynamic mics are the ones you have most likely seen used with PA systems or in karaoke bars. This, however, does not mean it is a cheap or low-quality choice. Dynamic microphones are highly versatile and can deliver excellent results.

It is essential to know that condenser microphones need a +48V DC voltage called phantom power to work. Your PC by itself doesn’t provide this voltage, but in this post, I will show you what you need to make it work with your computer.

Instead, if it is a dynamic mic, in most cases, the audio signal level coming out of it is very low, and it needs to be boosted before the computer can appropriately use it.

Taking these details into consideration, the three methods for connecting an XLR mic to a computer, whether it is a condenser or dynamic, are:

Using an XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter
With the use of an audio interface
Using a USB to XLR microphone cable converter – This method works only with dynamic microphones

1. Using an XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter

Using an XLR to USB signal adapter to connect a microphone to a computer is one of the easiest ways to do so. These devices are plug-and-play, so they don’t require drivers to work. All you have to do is connect the mic to the adapter, then connect the adapter to the computer.

An excellent feature of these types of adapters is that they have phantom power, which means that you can use them to connect condenser microphones as well. They also come with an integrated preamp with gain controls to adjust the signal strength. This feature comes in handy when connecting dynamic microphones such as the Shure SM58 or the SM7B, as they need a preamp to increase the signal strength to line level.

The monitor mix controls the blending of the mic’s signal and playback audio, which comes in handy when recording with backing tracks.

Basically, the XLR to USB signal adapter works as a simple one-channel audio interface with basic controls. But don’t get fooled by its simplicity, it gets the job done, and it does it well.

Here are the best two XLR to USB signal adapters (links to Amazon):

These are the steps you need to follow to connect an XLR mic to a PC using a USB signal adapter:

Connect one side of the included USB cable to the signal adapter and the other side to the computer’s USB port.
After a few seconds, you should see a pop-up message on your computer saying the connected device is installed and ready to use.
Using an XLR microphone cable, connect the female connector to the microphone, and the male connector to the adapter. I recommend using a long enough cable so that the USB signal adapter stays close to the computer in a safe area. Don’t place it on the floor to not step onto it. Here are a few suggestions for 6ft, 10ft, and 15ft XLR cables.
If your mic is a condenser, turn on the +48V phantom power switch to provide power to the microphone.
At this point, right-click the speaker icon on the lower right corner of your Windows PC, and click on “Open Sound Settings.”
On the new window that opens, under “Input – Choose your input Device,” click on the drop-down menu to select the signal adapter as your input device.
Next, open the software or application where you want to use the XLR microphone to run a test. If you speak or sing onto the mic and don’t see the signal level on the screen, you might have to go into the software settings and select the USB adapter as your input device.

The following diagram provides visual representations of the connections you need to make for connecting either a dynamic or condenser microphone with an XLR connector to your computer using a USB signal adapter.

diagram showing how to connect an XLR dynamic or condenser mic to a pc using a USB signal adapter.

If you only need to connect an XLR mic to a computer for recording vocals or use it for streaming, this works perfectly well. The only downside is that you can only connect one channel to the computer, and with a few more bucks, you could get an audio interface with at least two channels with gives you more flexibility.

2. Connect an XLR Mic to a PC Using an Audio Interface

The best way to connect an XLR microphone to a Windows or Mac PC is to use an audio interface. This device takes the analog XLR signal from the microphone and converts it to a stream of digital bits to be used by the computer to stream it, record it, or use it in a video conference.

Using an audio interface will give some advantages over other methods because it comes bundled with software you can install and use to do many things, including edit and add sound effects to your voice and instruments.

Plus, most of them come with at least two input channels which you can use to connect another microphone or a musical instrument if you choose to do so.

An audio interface can be used to connect condenser and dynamic microphones. Thanks to its phantom power, preamp, gain controls, and monitoring capabilities, you can set up a simple yet powerful home recording studio with the bundled software.

Click the link for a list of the best audio interfaces available in the market today that will have you recording or streaming using your XLR microphone in no time. The list provides different price ranges you can choose from depending on your budget.

The following steps show you how to connect an XLR mic to a PC using an audio interface:

The first thing to do is connect the power supply to the audio interface. Keep in mind that newer model interfaces don’t use a power adapter because they are powered from the USB-C or Thunderbolt port.
Connect the USB cable to the computer. If your interface gets its power from the USB port, it also uses the same port for sending and receiving data.
After a few seconds, you should see a pop-up message on your computer saying that the connected device is installed and ready to use. If you get an error message, don’t worry. All you have to do is go to the manufacturer’s website to download and install the necessary drivers for your specific model.
Using an XLR microphone cable, connect the female connector to the mic and the male connector to one of the audio interface inputs.
If you are using a condenser mic, turn on the +48V phantom power switch to power up the mic.
Next, right-click the speaker icon on the lower right corner of your Windows PC, and click on “Open Sound Settings.”
On the new window that opens, under “Output – Choose your output Device,” click on the drop-down menu and select the audio interface as your output device. This will enable you to monitor your recording using a pair of headphones.
Now look for “Input – Choose your input Device,” click on the drop-down menu, and select the audio interface as your input device.
Increase the gain until you see a healthy signal level under the “Test your microphone.” Make sure it doesn’t go beyond 75%. That way, your audio signal will sound clean and distortion-free.
Next, open the software or application where you want to use the XLR microphone to run a test. If you speak or sing onto the mic and don’t see the signal level on the screen, you might have to go into the software settings and select the USB adapter as your input device.

The diagram below provides visual representations of the connections you need to make to connect an XLR mic to a pc using an audio interface.

This setup works for dynamic mics such as the world-famous Shure SM58 or any XLR condenser microphone as well. Plus, you could connect another mic or an instrument with the extra available channel if you prefer.

diagram showing how to connect an XLR mic to a pc using an audio interface.

3. Connect a Dynamic Mic to PC Using a USB to XLR Microphone Cable Converter

By far, the easiest and most cost-effective way of connecting a dynamic mic to a PC is by using a USB microphone cable link. This is basically a cable with a female XLR connector on one side, and on the other side, it has a USB port.

The USB is not just a regular port. Inside it has a small analog to digital converter that acts as a sound card when connected to the computer. The small circuit is powered from the USB port, takes the analog signal from the mic, boosts it, converts it to digital, and feeds it to the USB data bus.

The USB mic cable is plug-and-play and supports USB 2.0/1.1; no driver or software installation is required. It is as simple as connecting the XLR connector to the dynamic mic and the USB port to the computer.

Here are a couple of suggestions if you would like to go this route (links to Amazon):

Please Note: USB microphone cables don’t work with condenser microphones because they don’t provide phantom power to energize the mic. If you have an XLR condenser mic and want to connect it to a computer, please use any of the two aforementioned methods.

Here are the steps to connect a dynamic mic to a pc using a USB microphone cable link:

Connect the female XLR connector to the dynamic microphone.
Next, connect the USB port to the computer.
As this is a plug-and-play device, you should see a pop-up message on your computer after a few seconds saying the device is installed and ready to use.
Right-click the speaker icon on the lower right corner of your Windows PC, and click on “Open Sound Settings.”
On the new window that opens, under “Input – Choose your input Device,” click on the drop-down menu and select the USB mic cable as your input device.
Next, run a test on the software or app where you want to use your mic.

diagram showing how to connect an XLR mic to a pc using an XLR mic cable converter link.

Final Thoughts

Connecting an XLR mic to a pc, whether it is a dynamic or condenser microphone, is a simple process if you have the right tools. In this post, I have presented three easy ways to do so.

Choose the one that is more practical to you. With that said, my recommendation is to use an audio interface because it is more flexible. Plus, you get added benefits with the included software.

If you need to connect another mic or instrument later on, you can because it has two input channels. Additionally, you can use a pair of headphones to monitor your voice.

Explore our site for more articles like this one. Thank you for reading this blog.

How to Connect a USB Mic to a SmartPhone

Did you know that it is possible to connect most USB microphones to your iPhone or Android smartphone?

Using a USB condenser mic connected to your phone will enable you to broadcast studio-quality streams, have better audio for Zoom meetings, and even record professional-sounding podcasts or Vlogs directly to your cell phone.

This post will show you how to connect a USB mic to a phone in a few easy-to-follow steps. What’s more, you might already have a USB condenser microphone that you use with your computer. All you’ll need is a few accessories and cables to get things connected and ready to go. Let’s dive into the article.

Three Ways For Connecting an External Mic to a Smartphone

In most cases, connecting a USB mic straight to your smartphone wouldn’t work because these types of microphones need more current than what a phone can supply. To work around this issue, the mic needs to get the power from another source and only use the phone’s port to receive the data.

There are three ways of supplying power to a USB mic to connect it to a smartphone:

By using a PowerBank
By using a charger that delivers enough current
By leveraging a powered USB hub that uses an external power adapter.

In this post, I am assuming that you already have a USB microphone. If you don’t have one and are thinking about buying one to get the best sound possible for your Zoom meetings, streaming, or vocal/instrument recordings, here are some excellent options you can choose from [links to Amazon]:

Connect a USB Mic to a Phone Using a PowerBank

This approach is the best option if you want a mobile way of supplying power to the USB mic but still gives you the flexibility of moving around. The good thing is that by using this method, you can also provide power to the phone. That way, you don’t run out of battery while using it.

Make sure to get a power bank/portable charger with enough capacity to last the time you need it for.

Here is What You’ll Need for the Setup

A PowerBank with Enough Capacity
For Apple devices, you need a Lightning to USB-A 3.0 Adapter – Please note that the adapter needs to have both the USB-A and Lightning charging port to connect to the PowerBank and microphone at the same time.
For Android devices, you need a USB-C to USB-A 3.0 Adapter – The adapter needs to have both the USB-A and USB-C charging port to connect to the PowerBank and microphone simultaneously.

Connecting Everything Together

Connect the adapter to your phone. If it is an iPhone, use the lightning to USB-A 3.0 Adapter. But if instead, you have an Android smartphone, use a USB-C to USB-A 3.0 Adapter.
Use your phone’s charging cable to connect from the power bank to the charging port on the adapter.
Next, connect the USB cable from the microphone to the USB-A port of the adapter.
Unlock the phone and follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup.
Open any of the applications in which you wish to use the mic and run a test to make sure it works well.

The following diagram shows the different connections you have to make to connect a condenser mic to a phone using a power bank. Use it for your reference.

Diagram to Connect a USB Mic to a Phone Using a PowerBank

Connect an External USB Mic to a Smartphone Using a Charger and Adapter

If you need to connect the microphone to your phone to use it as a recording device to record podcasts or yourself singing with background music, you don’t need the setup to be mobile.

In such a case, all you need is to use a charger that delivers enough current to run the microphone while charging the phone. Most fast phone chargers should work well for most USB condenser microphones.

Accessories You’ll Need for the Setup

A Phone charger with enough output power to charge the phone and run the mic
For Apple devices, you need a Lightning to USB-A 3.0 Adapter – Make sure that the adapter you choose comes with a USB-A port and Apple’s Lightning port for charging. The reason is so that you can charge the phone and run the mic simultaneously.
For Android devices, you need a USB-C to USB-A 3.0 Adapter – Please note that the adapter needs to have both the USB-A and USB-C charging port to connect to the PowerBank and microphone at the same time.
Miscellaneous cables for the connection.

Making the Connection

Use a USB adapter that fits your phone’s charger port. For iPhones, use the lightning to USB-A 3.0 Adapter, and for Androids, use a USB-C to USB-A 3.0 Adapter.
Connect the charger to the wall and use your phone’s charging cable to go from the charger to the corresponding port on the adapter.
Attach the USB cable from the microphone to the USB-A port of the adapter.
Unlock the phone and follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup.
Open any of the applications in which you wish to use the mic and run a test to make sure it works well.

Use the image below for your reference to make the connections.

Diagram Connect an External USB Mic to a Smartphone Using a Charger and Adapter

Video Credits: Lloyd Sim

Connect a USB Condenser Mic Using a Powered USB Hub

The third way of connecting a USB mic to a phone is by leveraging a powered USB hub that uses an external power adapter. The approach in this method is to use the hub to supply the necessary current that the microphone needs and use the phone’s port to receive the digital audio signal sent from the mic.

This is What You Need for this Setup.

A USB 3.0 Hub with Power Adapter to provide power to the phone and mic
As with the previous two methods, you’ll need a Lightning to USB-A 3.0 Adapter for Apple devices.
You need a USB-C to USB-A 3.0 adapter if you plan to use an Android device.
Miscellaneous cables for the connection.

Connecting All the Components to the SmartPhone

Use the correct USB adapter that fits your phone’s charger port from the ones suggested here.
Connect the USB hub’s power adapter to the wall and power it on.
The hub comes with a male USB type A that is used to connect it to a computer. In our case, we will attach it to the female USB-A port of the adapter.
Attach the USB cable from the microphone to one of the ports in the hub.
If prompted to finish the setup on your phone, unlock it and follow the on-screen instructions.
Run a test on any application where you want to use the mic to make sure it works.

I have prepared a diagram that can serve as a reference showing the connections you need to make if you decide to use this method of connecting a USB mic to a smartphone.

Diagram to Connect a USB Condenser Mic Using a Powered USB Hub with external power supply

Video Credits: MackieTV

Final Thoughts

Connecting a USB microphone to a smartphone is possible, and it delivers excellent results. You can use it to record vocals, instruments, podcasts, and Vlog. Plus, you can use it to improve your sound quality at Zoom meetings.

In this post, I presented three different approaches you can use to perform the connection. Assuming that you already have a USB mic, all you’ll need is a few accessories and cables to get things connected and ready to go.

How to Build a budget Live Streaming System Using PTZ Cameras

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lives changed, and our daily routines got interrupted.

Everything from church services to live events got canceled, and the only way to continue was by doing live streaming.

Depending on what you want to achieve, setting up a live streaming system could cost thousands of dollars buying all those fancy cameras and video equipment gear.

If you have the budget, great, go right ahead! But what if you are a small congregation, a singer/songwriter, or a small band who has a small following but still wants to put on a show to live stream it but doesn’t have a budget to get a professional system?

Plus, don’t forget that using several DSLR cameras means that you need to have more people involved to get the right video shots.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a live streaming system that one person controls and be able to get high-quality video and achieve all this by using a handful of equipment?

In today’s article, I present a complete solution to build a budget live streaming system using a couple of affordable PTZ cameras and joystick controllers.

Want to know more about this streaming system? Read on as we go into more detail on how to build it.

Low Budget Live Streaming System Set Up Overview

We want good quality but affordable PTZ cameras that deliver a good quality HD image, and plenty of zoom for setting up the live streaming system.

The way the system works is as follows. Two network PTZ cameras connect to a network switch. At the same time, one or two PTZ camera joystick controllers are also connected to the same network switch.

To get an extra video shot, you can use an HD Webcam to get a wide-angle view from the main stage or pulpit.

OBS Studio is used as the video switcher to prepare the video shot before it is sent to the live stream.

Keep in mind that OBS should be installed on a computer with a potent video card to simultaneously handle the transcoding of the video streams from two or three cameras.

Your stream destination can be Zoom, Microsoft Teams, YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, or any other streaming platform.

Equipment and Software You’ll Need for the Setup.

OBS Studio – Free open source software for video recording and live streaming.
VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device – The virtual audio device forwards the audio signal to Zoom because OBS doesn’t have a way to do so as of May 2021.
PTZ Cameras – 2 x SUNBA PTZ 25X 601-D25X (Link to Amazon)
Wide-angle camera [optional] – Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 (Link to Amazon)
PTZ Camera Controller – 1 x LEFTEK Video Conference PTZ Controller (Link to Amazon). Adding a second controller is recommended for having an independent live feed and control of each camera.
Network Switch – TP-Link TL-SG108 (Link to Amazon). Any gigabit switch with enough ports would work. The one suggested here is in case you don’t have one and need to buy it.
Router with internet connectivity and a backup if possible.
HDMI video capture card [optional] – Elgato Cam Link 4K (Link to Amazon). The capture card is suggested if you need to feed a video signal to OBS. For example, if you need to connect a laptop for a presentation from the pulpit or main stage and want to have it available as a video source in OBS for streaming.
Miscellaneous Accessories – Network cables, audio cables, HDMI cable, and connector, etc.
Fast internet connection for streaming the video feed.

Setting Up the Live Streaming System

The following sections explain the setup process, but before permanently installing the cameras and PTZ controllers, I recommend running a bench test to ensure everything is working correctly.

Installing The PTZ Cameras

The cameras need to be installed in a place where there is a good view of the main stage. In our setup, we are using two cameras for better flexibility. One needs to be installed in the back of the sanctuary/venue and make sure it is centered. The other camera should be placed in the front and slightly to the side.

The camera in the back will be used to focus on the main stage or pulpit area. The one installed in the front would provide a different angle shot of the main stage area as well as the audience.

Having two cameras gives you more flexibility because you can prepare the shot before sending it to the live stream, and by having one in the front and another in the back, you can have a 360-degree view of the venue.

In our case, we are using the SUNBA PTZ 25X 601-D25X. This camera is one of the best budget PTZ cameras for live streaming. It offers a high-speed pan, tilt, and zoom with 360 degrees endless horizontal rotation, 15 degrees upward tilt, and 90 degrees downward movement, making it ideal for getting high-quality professional-looking video shots.

The Sumba camera delivers excellent results, and it’s capable of delivering 1080p HD video. But it is a budget-friendly camera, and it lacks some features, especially in low-light environments.

If your budget allows for it, I recommend the PTZOptics 30X-SDI. This is a professional-grade PTZ camera that offers 30X optical zoom, pan movement of ±340°, a field of view 60.7°(Wide) 2.28°(Tele) with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. Plus, it has simultaneous video outputs on 3G-SDI, HDMI, & IP Streaming.

Recommended Height and Installation Tips

Install each camera at the height of no more than 20 feet so that if you need to focus on a person’s face, it doesn’t seem like you are looking from the top.

Also, it would be best if you install them at the height of no less than 10 feet so that if people are walking around, it doesn’t affect the video shot.

Another critical factor you need to consider before deciding where to install the camera is that an RJ45 ethernet cable needs to go from the network switch through the PoE (Power over Ethernet) and connect to the camera’s back.

In other words, consider the place you are permanently installing the camera and how easy or difficult it will be to send the ethernet cable to reach the camera.

Below is a graphical representation of the PTZ camera installation you can use for your reference.

Using a Webcam for a Wide Angle Shot – Optional

Using a webcam is not necessary but can be helpful if you want to have an extra wide-angle shot. You could install a webcam such as the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 close to the computer you are using for streaming.

This wide-angle shot could be helpful in case you run into a problem with one of the PTZ cameras in the middle of a live streaming session.

Usually, in churches and live event venues, the PA system and all the equipment are located in the back. In that case, all you have to do is find a suitable position for the webcam so that you get the right shot.

With this camera, try to get a position you like and live it to be used when needed.

Provide Electric Power to The Cameras Via the PoE Injector

A good feature of the Sumba PTZ and the PTZOptics 30X-SDI cameras is that both accept PoE connections, meaning that you can send the power and data through the same ethernet cable.

This makes installation much easier because you don’t need to provide an electrical outlet where you decide to mount the camera.

Each Sumba camera comes with a regular power adapter that needs to connect to an outlet. You can use it this way, but I recommend using a PoE injector to make the installation process much more straightforward and cleaner.

PoE stands for Power Over Ethernet, and what it does is that it supplies the necessary voltage to the camera through the same ethernet cable coming from the network switch.

The way you need to connect the PoE injector is as follows:

First, plug in the PoE injector’s to an electrical outlet.
Use a short ethernet cable to go from the network switch to the PoE’s input.
From the PoE’s output, use another Ethernet cable to continue to the camera. This cable will now be providing the data stream and necessary power for the camera to work.

Please note that the Sumba PTZ 25X 601-D25X doesn’t come with a PoE unit. It only brings a regular power supply.

If you decide to use PoE instead of the regular power supply included with the camera, ensure that it can deliver at least 25W and 802.3at Standard.

Here are a few options that will work, links to Amazon:

StarTech.com 4 Port Gigabit PoE+ Injector 802.3at – For up to 4 devices
SUNBA High Power 802at/af Compliant PoE+ Injector – For only one camera
TRENDnet Gigabit Ultra PoE+ Injector – For only one camera

If needed, here is the diagram for your reference on connecting the PoE unit.

Connecting the Cameras, Computer and Controller to the Network Switch

The connections are easy. All you have to do is use RJ45 CAT5 or CAT6 network cable to connect everything together.

Start by connecting the router to the network switch
Next, connect the computer, the controllers, and the PTZ cameras to the switch.
If you decide to use the PoE adapter to provide power to the cameras, make sure to connect it correctly, and don’t forget to plug the PoE into the electrical outlet. If needed, check the diagram in the previous section.

Access Cameras Using Sumba’s Device Manager Software

All Sumba cameras have a factory default IP address which is 192.168.1.10. If you connect two or more cameras on the same network, you need to change the IP address because each device connected to the network requires a unique IP, or conflicts between devices will occur.

The easiest way to access the cameras to manage it or change the network settings is by using Sumba’s IP config tool called Device Manager.

The software comes in the CD-ROM bundled in the box, or it can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website; here is the link.

Download and install Sumba’s device manager on the computer. The next step is to change the IP and make it static.

It’s worth mentioning that you don’t have to assign static IPs to each device in the small network we are building for the live streaming system as long as you use a DHCP router that assigns IPs automatically.

Still, I believe it is a much better practice to assign static IPs because that way, you will know the IP address of each device, which makes it much easier when trying to troubleshoot a problem. I highly recommend labeling each device with its static IP for faster access.

Assign Static IPs to the Cameras

The following steps explain how to change the IP and Gateway configuration of the cameras so that they work within the network.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure that only one camera is connected. The reason for this is because if both cameras have the same IP, you will end up with an IP conflict, and you need to avoid that.
Open the Device Manager software that you just installed and click on the “IP Search” tab located in the lower-left area of the window.
After a few seconds, the camera should appear in the list of devices; click on it. If you don’t see it on the devices list, restart the camera by disconnecting the power adapter and reconnecting again after a few seconds.
On the upper-right area of the window, you have the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway. These are the numbers we need to change. Below is a screenshot for your reference.
Next, you need to modify the Gateway on the configuration so that the camera is part of the same local network family.
To find out what your Gateway IP is on Windows 10, right-click on the network icon found on the lower right corner of your screen and click on “Open Network & Internet Settings.”
Under “Advanced Network Settings,” click on “Change Adapter Options.”
In the new window that opens, double-click on the Ethernet adapter. On the new window that opens, click on “Details…” On the new window that opens, look for “IPv4 Default Gateway” and take note of it.
Now that you know the Default Gateway go back to the device manager tool and change the Gateway of the camera to the corresponding value of the local network that we just looked up.
Next, change the IP Address of the Camera. Make sure that the IP Address number you choose is part of the Gateway. For example, if the default Gateway is 192.168.1.1, the IP address must be 192.168.1.xx, where xx is any number between 2 to 255. I recommend choosing numbers that follow each other closely. For example, one camera can be 192.168.1.20, and the other camera 192.168.1.21, etc.
After making the changes, make sure to click on “Modify” to save the changes on the camera.
At this point, you can connect the second camera and repeat the procedure to assign the correct Gateway and IP Address to it.

Setting up the PTZ Controllers and Assigning Static IPs

To control the cameras, we will be using a joystick PTZ controller. The one we are choosing for this budget live streaming application is the LEFTEK Video Conference PTZ Controller.

It’s worth mentioning that the LEFTEK controller can be connected using PoE. So, if you get a powerful enough PoE injector, you can use it as a central power supply unit for the cameras and video controllers.

This controller plays the role of monitoring the video feed from the camera thanks to its 5-inch, 800 x 480 TFT LCD display while controlling the Pan, Tilt, and Zoom positions of the camera by using the joystick.

To navigate the menu options on the Leftek controller, use the joystick to go up, down, left, or right. The “ENTER” or select button is in the center of the joystick; all you have to do is press it.

Follow these steps to set up the controller and assign static IPs to the controllers:

On the keyboard, press the “Menu” button to enter the main menu.
Use the joystick to navigate the menu and select “Network Set.”
In the options that open, navigate to “Type,” press “ENTER,” and select “STATIC.” That way, each device in your system has static IPs.
Next, enter the IP for the video controller. In the previous example, we used IP 192.168.1.20 and 192.168.1.21 for the cameras. For the PTZ controller, we can use 192.168.1.22 and so on.
In the “Mask” section (subnet mask), enter 255.255.255.0
Following, enter the “Gateway” IP address. This is the same IP we used in the previous section. (Refer to step 6 in the last section – Assign Static IPs to the Cameras)
In the “DNS” section, enter 8.8.8.8
Next, navigate to “Save” and press “Enter” to save the settings.

If you decide to use two controllers, one for each camera, repeat these procedures for each controller, and don’t forget to use a different IP.

Adding the Cameras to the Leftek PTZ Controller

After the cameras and controller are on the same LAN network, you can add the cameras to control them using the joystick.

These are the steps to follow when adding the cameras to the controller:

Press the “SEARCH” button to find the IP cameras that are in the LAN network.
Use the joystick to go up, down, left, or right. The “ENTER” or select button is in the center of the joystick.
Using the joystick, choose “SEARCH DEVICE” to find the IP cameras connected to your network.
Once you see the IP cameras, navigate and choose “SELECT ALL,” then select “ADD” to add them to the device list.
At this point, you can test each camera by using the joystick to pan, tilt, and zoom to see its video feed on the LCD screen.
The controller assigns an ID number to each camera that you need to use when switching between them. To call a camera, push the “CAM” button and then enter the number of the camera you want to access. For example, we are using two cameras, one for the front, ID number 1, and one for the back, with ID number 2. To call camera one (front), push CAM, then number one on the keypad.

You can use two separate video controllers, one for each camera. The advantage of doing this is that you can have an independent video feed of each camera, and you can prepare the next video shot before sending it live.

If you decide to go this route, on step 4, instead of choosing “SELECT ALL,” only select one camera to add. Then repeat the same procedure on the other controller to add the second camera.

Using the Preset Feature on the Leftek Controller

After you have added the cameras to the controller and can operate them, you’ll quickly realize that there are video shots that you will use constantly. The Leftek controller allows you to store up to 99 preset positions that save time when getting a video shot ready. Here is how to store preset positions.

Use the joystick to pan, tilt, and zoom until you get the desired video shot.
On the IP PTZ controller keyboard, locate and press “SET PRESET” > “The preset number of your choice” > “ENTER.” For example, for preset 1, you would press the following buttons in this order: SET PRESET > 1 > ENTER. For preset 2: SET PRESET > 2 > ENTER, and so on up to 99.
To recall a preset, press “CALL PRESET” > “The preset number of you want to call” > “ENTER.” For example, to recall preset 1, you would press the CALL PRESET > 1 > ENTER buttons. For preset 2: CALL PRESET > 2 > ENTER, and so on up to 99.

Extra Tip: It would be a good idea to create a spreadsheet or use a notepad to write down a short description of each preset for easy access during a livestream.

Installing and Setting up OBS and Needed Plugins

OBS Studio will be used as the video switcher to prepare the video shot, add effects, and mix multiple video sources.

Installing OBS Studio

Here are the steps to install and configure OBS Studio for our live streaming system:

Go to OBS Studio’s official website and download it. Choose your operating system and go through the basic installation process.
After it’s done installing, before clicking “Finish,” disable “Launch OBS Studio 26.1.1.” Now you can click “Finish” to complete the installation.
Before launching OBS, search for it in the start menu, right-click on it, and select “Pin to Task Bar.”
Once pinned to the taskbar, right-click the OBS icon, go to Properties >> Advanced, then enable “Run as Administrator,” then click Ok. Doing these steps will ensure that OBS always runs as administrator, which prevents some performance issues.
- Note: If you don’t have administrator privileges on the computer you are installing OBS, then ignore steps 2 through 4 and perform a regular install following the installation wizard.
Next, launch OBS, and you will get a pop-up window, which is the auto-configuration wizard. Use the configuration wizard if you will use Facebook Live, YouTube, Twitch, or Twitter/Periscope for your stream, as it will prompt you to log into the platform of your choice and choose the best settings. Doing this will save you time because it will log in as soon as you open OBS.
- Note: If you are planning to use Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or any other streaming platform, jump to the next section.
Select “Optimize for streaming, recording is secondary,” and click Next.
On the “Base (Canvas) Resolution,” choose 1920 x 1080. On the FPS option, select “Either 60 or 30, but prefer 60 when possible,” click Next.
In this step, you can choose the streaming service that you’ll be using. Click on the dropdown menu to select it and enter the required information to log into the platform. Make sure to enable “Prefer hardware acceleration” and “Estimate bitrate with bandwidth test.” This process can take some time, so be patient.

Make sure to set OBS to Studio Mode. With this mode, you will see a preview screen and a program screen. To enable studio mode, find the “Controls” section and click on “Studio Mode.”

Next, we need to install and set up a plugin on OBS to forward the audio signal coming from the audio mixer to the streaming platform.

Installing VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device

By default, OBS Studio doesn’t have a way of routing the audio signal internally to Zoom. To do this, we need a plugin called VB-Cable virtual audio device.

Follow these steps to set up the VB-Virtual audio device:

Download VB-Virtual Audio Device and follow the installation wizard to install the plugin. Make sure that OBS is not running. After the plugin installs, you need to restart the computer for the changes to take effect.
Open OBS studio and look for the “Sources” section, which is in the lower-left area of the window.
Click the “+” and select “Audio Input Capture.” On the new window that opens, select “Create New” and name the new capture you are creating. Be sure to enable “Make Source Visible,” then click “Ok.”

Adding the PTZ Cameras as Video Sources in OBS

To use OBS Studio as the video switcher between the PTZ cameras and webcam, they need to be added as video sources. Additionally, you need to add the video sources as scenes to use them between video shots. Here is how to do this

Open OBS Studio and find the “Scenes” section located in the lower-left area of the window. You need to have at least one scene for the setup to work.
Click the “+” button, and a new window called “Add Scene” opens. Name the new scene you are creating, and be sure to use a name that makes it easy to identify when doing the live stream.
The newly created scene doesn’t have a source assigned to it. To assign a video source, select the scene we just created, and in the “Sources” area, click the “+” button and select “Media Source.”
On the new window that opens, select “Create New” and give it a name. Be sure to enable “Make Source Visible,” then click “Ok.” Note: I recommend using a name that makes it easy to identify, for example, front camera, back camera, Cam1, Cam2, etc.
Select the newly created video capture device and click on “Properties,” which is the gear icon located next to the minus sign.
In the new window that opens, deselect “Local File” and make sure that “Restart playback when source becomes active” is selected.
Lower the “Network Buffering” to 1MB by moving the slider to the left.
Next, we need to tell OBS the RTSP address for the camera we want to link as a device.
On the “Input” section, type the RTSP IP address in the following format rtsp://xxx.xxx.x.xx/1 where xxx.xxx.x.xx is the static IP address we assigned to the camera previously.
- In our example, we assigned 192.168.1.20 to the front camera, so in this case, the RTSP address would be rtsp://192.168.1.20/1
Leave the “Input Format” section blank
Further, in the “Reconnect Delay” section, use the slider to bring it down to 1S (1 second)
Select “Use hardware decoding when available.” By selecting this feature, you will be telling your video card to perform some of the decoding tasks, which will make the system run smoother.
Ensure to select “Show nothing when playback ends,” then click “Ok” to exit the setup.

If you are using more than one IP camera, you need to add another scene and repeat these steps for each camera until all of them have been added to OBS as media sources.

For USB cameras, you don’t add them as RSTP devices. In that case, you would add them as video capture devices.

Connecting the Live Audio Feed from the Mixing Console to OBS Studio

This setup is intended to be used for live church streaming or live events such as concerts, conferences, etc.

In this case, we are dealing with several microphones and even musical instrument signals mixed using the audio mixer.

After all the audio signals go through the mixing board, we need to connect a line from the soundboard to the computer’s audio input so that OBS can use it for streaming.

There are two approaches to do this. One is by connecting a stereo cable from the mixer to the PC’S audio input located in the sound card. This approach is intended for desktop PCs with a dedicated audio card that offers inputs and output connectors.

This approach doesn’t work well on laptops because a laptop uses the same 3.5mm jack for input/outputs; it doesn’t accept both simultaneously. Check out the diagram for your reference.

The second method is by using a USB audio interface. This method would work better for laptops and desktop computers because it uses an external device to convert external analog audio signals into digital.

For a more detailed explanation of connecting a mixer to an audio interface, click the link.

Here is the diagram of the connections you need to make.

Testing the Audio Feed from the Mixing Console

With everything connected and with OBS Studio running, play any audio from the mixer. If your connections are good and volumes set correctly, you should see in the “Audio Mixer” section in OBS signal coming through.

The meter should be showing the audio feed coming from the mixer. Make sure that the volume is between the green and yellow colors of the meter. Avoid going into the red because that means that the signal is too hot, and it will sound distorted.

Use a pair of headphones to listen to the incoming signal to assess if it is distorting or not.

In the OBS audio mixer, you will see a volume slider that you can use to lower or increase the signal level.

If it sounds distorted, try decreasing the volume on the mixer side until you see the signal bouncing between the green and yellow (on the OBS studio audio mixer)

Configuring Zoom to Work with OBS for Live Streaming Using PTZ Cameras

Now that we have configured OBS, it’s time to configure Zoom to accept the audio and video sources from OBS. Here is how to do it.

The first thing to do is find the “Controls” section located in the lower-right corner of the window.
Click on “Start Virtual Camera” to enable it. The virtual camera is the way OBS will send the video stream to Zoom.
Next, open Zoom and log into the platform. Click on “Settings” >> “Video.” From the dropdown menu, select “OBS Virtual Camera.”
We have already installed VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device, so the next step is to assign it as the microphone. To do this, look for the “Audio” tab, and under the “Microphone” section, click on the dropdown menu and select CABLE Output (VB-Audio virtual cable).
At this point, you should be able to see the video and audio feed coming from OBS.

Note: If you see that the audio and video are out of sync, or there is a delay in the video when compared to the audio, go to the next section to see how to fix it.

Fixing the Audio/Video Latency

In most cases, when the video feed comes from an IP camera and the audio is taken from the main audio mixer, you will see that the audio and video will be out of sync.

This happens because video takes longer to process and encode in OBS than audio does. Audio comes out faster than video, therefore the reason for them being out of sync.

The difference between the audio and video is usually a few milliseconds, but you can see and hear the delay.

There are three different ways to solve this issue:

Feeding the audio signal from the mixing console straight to cameras [Best Option]
Use the advanced audio properties in OBS to delay the audio signal coming from the mixing console
Using the GStreamer plugin for RTSP sources – This plugin helps reduce latency differences between the audio and video feeds.

Feeding the Audio Signal to the Camera to fix Latency Issues

Feeding the audio signal to each PTZ camera is the best option for fixing latency issues. The reason is that the video and audio will be encoded together and sent through the IP protocol and decoded back once they reach the destination.

Although this is the best option, it is not the most practical. The reason is because you would need to send a physical cable from the mixing console to wherever each one of the cameras is installed. If the church or venue is large, sending a cable could be a real challenge.

Still, if this is feasible in your case, it will ensure that no latency is present between the audio and video feed.

The SUNBA PTZ 25X 601-D25X doesn’t have the feature to embed the audio feed, but the PTZOptics 30X-SDI does. This is where the features offered by the PTZOptics camera surpass the Sumba camera in every way.

Using the Advanced Audio Properties in OBS Studio

OBS has advanced audio features that you can set to fix the delay or latency issue between the video and audio. Here is how to fix the latency problem in OBS:

Have someone talk through a microphone connected to the audio mixer from the front of the venue. Make sure that the mic is on a stand so that the person can clap. The clapping sound will be used as a physical indication when syncing the audio with the video.
Use the PTZ camera to zoom into the person that is in the front.
In OBS, under the “Controls” section, click on “Start Recording” and have the person in the front say a few words, then clap a few times, allowing a few seconds in between claps.
Next, watch the video to see if the audio is leading or lagging.
Go to View > Advanced Audio Options.
In the new window that opens, you will see all the audio sources you have available. Locate the one that you are using to receive the audio feed from the mixing console.
Then, find the “Sync Offset” section and increase the number to 200 ms. Repeat the recording to see if you need to increase or decrease the delay.

Remember that doing it this way is by trial and error, so it might take some time until you get it just right. Be patient, as it might take a few tries until the audio and video are synced.

Video Credits: Awall Digital

Run a Streaming Test to Make sure It Works

Finally, the last step is to run a live stream to test if everything works well. Use a device such as a smartphone or a laptop to connect to Zoom, YouTube, Facebook Live, or any other platform you are using to test the streaming video and sound quality.

This is the workflow you can follow to test the whole streaming system:

Open OBS
- Start virtual camera
- Make sure studio mode is selected
- Check the incoming audio and adjust the levels if needed. Avoid distortion or saturation from the mixer side
  - Right-click the audio area in OBS, click the advanced audio properties, and on the new window that opens under “Volume,” you can boost or decrease the audio levels as needed.
  - The audio input level can also be adjusted from sound control panel settings in Windows. Right-click the volume icon > open sound settings > input > device properties). The selected input device should be the Line In. If using a USB audio interface, make sure to select it for adjusting the volume.
Verify that the PTZ controllers are turned on
Confirm controls are working for the front and back cameras
To see all the scenes in one window, open the multiview window feature in OBS (View > Multiview (windowed))
If you have set camera presets on a spreadsheet, open it and have it handy
Open and log into the streaming platform of your choice. It can be Zoom, Facebook Live, YouTube, etc.
- For the Mic/Line, it should be CABLE Output (VB-Audio virtual cable)
- To receive audio from Zoom, the speaker should be your computer’s audio card
- In the video or camera section, select the OBS Virtual Camera
- Unmute mic if a Zoom participant needs to be routed to the mixer
Verify the audio feed from the computer to the soundboard
Use OBS to switch shots and add graphics as needed
Use the PTZ controllers to move cameras and call presets as needed
- Call Preset > number > enter
- You can also adjust the focus manually if needed (focus+ and focus-)
You can use OBS to record the event; then, the video can be uploaded to YouTube or any other platform.

How To Connect Multiple Microphones to a Computer

Most people are familiar with how to connect a single microphone to a computer. But what if you need to connect multiple microphones instead?

That can be a little trickier, but with the right instructions, you’ll easily be on your way. There are three basic methods that most people rely on.

We’ll look at the different ways to do this, which will allow you to find the system that works best for your circumstance.

Three Methods to Connect Multiple Microphones to a Computer

Using a USB capable audio mixer
With a multiple channel audio interface
By connecting two USB microphones

Connecting Multiple Microphones to a Computer with a USB Capable Audio Mixer

By using this method, you will have a few advantages. For example, you can equalize each channel separately before sending the signal to the main audio bus.

It also provides you with options such as a low-pass filter – to cut the low-end rumble, audio compression – which helps keep a more constant audio level, phantom power – for connecting condenser microphones, aux send/returns – for connecting external effect boards, etc.

Most USB-capable mixers only allow you to record a stereo track which can be a limiting factor if you plan to record each channel separately.

If you are considering this option for recording a podcast with multiple guests, you might want to consider a mixer specially designed for this type of application. Here a list of the best audio mixers for podcasting.

Instead, if you plan to use multiple microphones for music applications such as a band, check out this post on the different types of audio mixers.

Things You Need to Consider

When using a USB-capable audio mixer, there are a few things you’ll need to know.

First, you’ll want to decide on how many channels you’ll need for your situation. Based on that information, you’ll be able to select a mixer accordingly.
As you’re setting your audio mixer up, it’s essential that you equalize each channel correctly. By taking the time to do this right, you’ll get the best results.
You’re going to want to make sure that your levels are consistent. You’ll do this before recording. Why? You don’t want to end up with distortion. It may seem like a hassle to do the prep work, but it will save you trouble later.
Now, you’ll use the included DAW software or another one to record from your microphones. By the way, DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation.

This is What You Need to Do

First, use the corresponding cable, either XLR or 1/4” plug, to connect each microphone to the mixing console.
Turn the gain knob to the middle and make sure also to increase the master volume and volume slider or knob for each channel you are using.
Test each microphone to see if you have a signal. You should see the strength of the audio signal on the VU meter. Try to keep the VU meter at or below 0 dB to avoid saturation and distortion on the audio signal. In other words, stay within the green LED’s avoid going into the yellow or red. If you are not familiar with mixing consoles, click the following link to read an article about mixing consoles basics.
Equalize each channel to your likings. Make sure there is a balanced sound between all the mics. Avoid having one being louder than the other. This is where an audio compressor comes in handy.
Monitor the sound by plugging in a pair of headphones. You might want to check out the post on how to EQ vocals or the one on how to equalize different sound sources to get a well-balanced sound in your recording or live stream.
Connect the USB cable from the mixer to the computer and let it install the driver. Most USB audio mixers are plug-and-play (PnP). If the driver doesn’t install automatically, download it from the mixer manufacturer’s website.
Install the included DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or your favorite one. Follow the on-screen setup wizard to finish setting up the DAW software.
Run a sound recording test to make sure you are happy with the sound before recording. If it doesn’t sound good, try tweaking the EQ or volume levels until you are satisfied with the result. Verify that the audio doesn’t distort; there is nothing more annoying to your listeners than saturated sound.

Here is a diagram you can use for your reference that shows you the different connections you need to make.

Let’s move on to the next method, which uses a multiple-channel audio interface.

Connect Several Mics to a Computer Using a Multiple Channel Audio Interface

Another way to connect several microphones to a computer is by using a multiple-channel audio interface.

This is the most straightforward way of connecting multiple microphones to a computer but has some limitations.

For example, it doesn’t allow you to equalize the sound source before converting the analog signal into digital. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it poses some limitations if you like to EQ sound before recording it.

The good thing is that with the DAW software, you can EQ the recorded sound or even add sound effects later on when mixing the recorded material.

In some cases, it is better to record a raw take on the audio source without any EQ or added sound effects. That way, when it is time to finish the mix, you can add whatever you want to the sound. Just make sure that the recorded take is clean and unsaturated.

You can add EQ, compression, effects such as reverb, echo, chorus, etc. And if you don’t like how it sounds, you can always revert it with the click of a mouse. This is something you can’t do if your raw recorded audio it’s been equalized and effects have been added to it before it was recorded.

To achieve good quality recordings, live streams, and podcasts, you need to have a good mic to make sure that the source signal is picked up clearly.

Here are a few suggestions of some of the best mics for recording vocals and some of the best microphones for podcasting, hand-picked for their quality and sonic characteristics. Click the links to check them out.

Details To Consider

Let’s take a closer look at some important details you need to consider when using an audio interface for connecting multiple microphones to a computer.

Your interface is going to convert your audio signal into digital. Before you get started, you need to consider what you’re using this for. Each setup is different, so having a clear idea of how you want to use the audio interface will help you select the right unit.
The next step is understanding how many inputs and outputs you need. Consider a two-person podcast vs. a band that has multiple instruments, as well as vocals. These are completely different uses but are both viable with the right interface. Do you need headphones? How many pairs? These are the types of things you should consider before selecting a multiple-channel audio interface.
You also need to consider the kind of computer/device connectivity you’ll use. These are the most common connection types: USB, FireWire, Thunderbolt, or PCIe (PCI Express). USB is the most popular, but if using a multiple channel interface, if possible, a faster connection such as Thunderbolt is recommended.
There are different price ranges and extras you can get, but by making a list of your needs, you’ll be able to sort through the multiple interfaces available to find the one that will work for your needs and budget.

You can check our suggestions for audio interfaces by clicking the link. That article provides you with some of the best affordable options available in the market today. We always keep our articles up to date to provide you with an updated list of the best audio gear available.

How to Set it Up

Start by installing the drivers of the interface. They can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
Next, install the DAW you are planning to use. If you don’t have one, most audio interfaces come bundled with one which can download it from the manufacturer’s website.
Connect the microphones to the interface using balanced XLR cables.
Set the gain of each channel until you get a balanced tone.
Make sure to check the audio level on the DAW side so that the signal sent to the computer is not saturated.
After the audio has been recorded, you can use the DAW software to edit the recorded it sound.
If using the audio interface to live stream the audio, you can monitor the sound level from the platform you are using to stream to make sure it sounds good.
When live streaming, it is recommended to also use a different device to connect to the stream and monitor the quality of the audio signal.

If you need, use the diagram below as a reference for making your connections.

Connect Multiple USB Microphones To a Computer Using a Third-Party Software – For Windows PC

We’re going to look at two different processes for this setup. One will be for Mac users using Garageband to create two separate tracks for recording both microphones simultaneously.

The second method is for Windows users. We will be using Audacity as the DAW and Voicemeeter as a virtual mixer to combine the two microphones into one track.

2 Microphones/2 Tracks Method – For MAC Computers Using GarageBand

When you’re looking to use two microphones and want two tracks, you’re going to use the Audio Midi set up and choose something called Aggregate Device. In case you didn’t know, an aggregate device is simply the wording for multiple input/output devices that work together as “one” device.

These are the steps to follow:

Connect each microphone to an available USB port. If your computer doesn’t have enough ports, you’ll need a USB hub.
Next, go to the “Applications” folder and scroll down until you find the “Utilities” option and click on it.
Select the “Audio MIDI Setup” option. In the new window that opens, look for the plus sign “+” in the lower-left corner and click on it to create an aggregate device.
On the right side, look for the two USB microphones you have connected to the computer under “Audio Device,” and select them.
I recommend changing the name of the new aggregate device to something like 2 USB Microphones to make it easier to visualize. This becomes handy if you have several aggregate devices.
Open GarageBand and click on “Create.” Next, click on GarageBand on the upper left corner of the window, and from the drop-down menu, click on “Preferences.”
In the new window that opens, click on “Audio/MIDI” and click on “Input Device.” From the drop-down menu, select the aggregate device you created earlier. This is why renaming it makes things easier.
At this point is time to add tracks, one per USB microphone. Click the “+” to add a new track. In the new window that opens, click on “Input” to select the USB mic. Repeat the same procedure to add the second device, and that’s it. You can start recording on two separate tracks using two USB microphones.

If you don’t see an audio signal on the VU meter, double-check those inputs so you know you’ve got the right ones.

With this method, each microphone will record its own track. This is the 2 microphone/2 track method

Video Credits: Pat Flynn

2 Microphones/1 Track Method – For Windows PC Using Audacity and Voicemeeter

To connect two USB microphones to a Windows PC, you need to use a program called Voicemeeter.

As explained on their website, Voicemeeter is an audio mixer application endowed with a Virtual audio device used as Virtual I/O to mix and manage any audio sources from or to any audio devices or applications.

This particular program allows you to put a different microphone on each panel. You’re going to sync this with your Audacity program in a short bit. Let’s look at getting started.

These are the steps to follow:

Download and install Voicemeeter from their website.
Connect both USB microphones to available USB ports. If you don’t have enough ports, use a USB hub.
Open the Voicemeeter application, and click on “Hardware Input 1.” From the drop-down menu, select the first USB microphone to assign it to Hardware Input 1.
Click on “Hardware Input 2” to select the second USB mic from the drop-down list to assign it to Hardware Input 2.
Once both mics have been assigned, test them to see if they are configured correctly. You should see the VU meter moving, meaning that they have been configured correctly.
At this point, you can use any DAW software to start recording, but instead of selecting only one USB mic as the input device, you’ll choose Voicemeeter, which in turn is mixing the signal of both mics. In our case, we’ll be using Audacity because it’s a free, open-source DAW.
Open Audacity and look for the small microphone icon to select which input Audacity is going to use. From the drop-down menu, choose Voicemeeter.
Click the “Record” button to run a test. Speak through each mic, and you should see a signal being recorded. If the volume of the microphone is too low, open the Voicemeeter app and increase the volume. If it’s too high, make sure to decrease it to avoid clipping and distortion in the signal.

When you push the record button on Audacity, you’ll see that the two microphones now come through on a single track instead of the two tracks like in the method mentioned above. This is due to limitations in the Voicemeeter software.

Use this method to connect multiple microphones to a Windows computer. This becomes handy if you need to record a podcast with a guest and don’t have an audio interface or mixing console available to accommodate more than one mic.

Video Credits: Pat Flynn

Takeaways:

There are three basic methods of connecting multiple microphones to a computer.

Using a USB capable audio mixer
Using a multiple channel audio interface
Connecting two USB microphones to the computer and using third-party software

Knowing how you’re using these methods can significantly help you choose, based on your needs, your budget, and software. Are you recording multiple instruments and vocals? Is it a two-person podcast?

Regardless of what you choose, remember to adjust your levels and settings – because clean sound that’s well balanced or not can make or break your recording.

Have you connected multiple microphones to a computer? Which method did you prefer? Did you find that you tried one and weren’t happy with the results? Be sure to let me know if this was helpful and if there are other topics that you’d like me to cover.

When it comes to audio, quality matters —every time.

Easy to Build DIY Acoustic Panels with Step-by-Step Instructions

When it comes to absorbing sound, there are popular choices that are commonly used to do the job.

One option is professional-grade acoustic panels, but what do you do if money is tight? Is there a way to dampen the echoes and noise in the room you’re working in?

Fortunately, if you’re on a budget or just starting out, there are other means of creating sound-absorbing panels. This way, you don’t need to overinvest and can still accomplish the task at hand.

With DIY acoustic panels, you can avoid emptying your wallet just to buy traditional acoustic foam panels. Instead, you’ll learn a simple method that can work just as well, even if you have a large area to cover.

Let’s face it, if you’ve been pricing professional-grade acoustic absorbing material, you’re probably still in sticker shock. Take a moment to catch your breath and sigh with relief because we’ve got you covered.

What Are The Best Materials For Sound Absorption?

Acoustic foam is the obvious choice, but people have used towels, pillows, moving blankets, cork, and other options such as carpet padding and egg crate.

When it comes to absorbing sound, the process is the same. You’re dealing with sound waves that are bouncing off surrounding surfaces. You need something that captures and stops the vibrations from bouncing about like a rubber ball on steroids.

One of the best choices is to use multiple towels or heavy moving blankets. When the sound passes through, it muffles it and stops the noise from traveling the way it would without the barrier.

In an article by Tom Scalisi, housing and building expert, Bob Vila’s site mentions that while sound panels are a choice to buffer noise, another you might not have thought of is mineral wool. And who hasn’t dealt with a loud snorer in their life?

An interesting source that speaks of different types of absorbing materials is SnoringSource.com. They mention ideas like using pillows, wall hangings, acoustic curtains, and more.

What Fabric Should You Use?

When it comes to affordability and easy-to-work options, we think towels are a great first choice. Another excellent option is a coarse woven fabric, but it will cost more than towels.

Moving blankets are another and can be found without paying a bundle. Hit up your local home improvement store, thrift store, or big box store for cheap towels, and get plenty so you can layer them. The thicker the layer, the better the sound-absorbing qualities.

Now that we’ve gotten the basics out of the way let’s get to building your budget-friendly DIY acoustic panels.

DIY Acoustic Panels – Step-by-Step Instructions

First, you’ll want to gather some supplies, so without further ado, here’s a list of what we suggest.

Materials and Tools Needed

Wood (1×2’s, 1×3’s, or 2×4’s) You can use any of the three options mentioned, but I recommend using 1×2’s or 1×3’s so that the frame doesn’t end up being too heavy.
Wood glue
Screws
Drill
Drilling bits sized for the crews you are going to use
Either a staple gun or small nails
Sound absorbing material – towels, foam, moving blankets, or fiberglass insulation
Tools that will be helpful: saw if you don’t have properly sized wood, screwdriver for screws, and hammer if using nails in place of a staple gun. A clamp can also be handy if you’re only relying on glue without screws – We highly recommend adding the screws for more reliable strength.

Design and Sizes

When building your DIY acoustic panels, consider the space of the room you’re working with. If you’re in a tight area, it might be easier to work with 1×3 lumber, whereas if you have a bigger space and decide to make bigger panels, we’d suggest 2×4 lumber.

You can make frames of different sizes. Standard sizes are 24×48”, 12×48”, 24×36”, 24×24”, or 12×12”. You could choose one size or mix and match different sizes to create a unique design.

Remember that you will need several frames attached to the wall to reduce echo and bouncing sounds effectively. The image below shows various examples of what you can make.

Image Credits: Acoustimac, and Acoustic Design Works

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. The wood’s purpose is to create a box frame, so make sure you have smooth edges and avoid warped boards if possible. It should be cut to size. If you get it from a home goods store, like Home Depot or Lowes, they may be able to cut it to size for you if you don’t have a saw handy.

2. Create a frame from the wood into a rectangle or square shape depending on what design you choose to do.

3. Use screws to attach the corners to create a stronger hold. The glue alone won’t be as strong, and we recommend you add screws at this point. You want to attach the pieces of wood in a manner that will keep them together for a long time to come! Repeat this on each corner until you’ve completed the entire frame, making sure it’s secure. The image below shows you how to insert the screws on each corner.

TIP: I recommend pre-drilling holes before inserting the screws. Use a drill bit sized for the screw you are going to use. That way, the wood won’t split due to internal stresses when joining the corners.

4. Add a support piece to hold the filling material. If you’re creating a larger panel, you may want to put a support piece in place, which would simply go across the center within the frame. I recommend adding at least two support pieces if the frame is larger than 36 inches. The last thing you want is the material falling out when moving or installing the fame to the wall.

TIP: Make sure to cut the support beams to a smaller width than the rest of the frame. The reason is so that there is enough space for the material you are adding between the supporting beam and the front cover. When installing the support beams to the frame, pre-drill holes for the screws, glue the edges together, and join the support beam to the frame using screws.

5. Fill the empty box portion of the frame with the absorbing material of your choice. You’ll now use filling materials such as folded towels, foam, or fiberglass insulation. We recommend towels since they are affordable and easy to come by. In the space gap that’s left on the inside of the frame, layer more towels for better sound absorption. You can nail or staple the top backside towel to the frame.

WARNING: If you decide to use fiberglass insulation as the filler material, make sure to use eye protection, dust mask, gloves and handle it with care because this stuff is dangerous.

6. Take a towel, blanket, or any coarse woven fabric of the color you like and wrap it around your frame. Stretch it so that it lays smoothly. Using a staple gun or small nails, secure the edges into place on the wooden frame. Cut off excess material for a clean look.

7. One of the great things about these frames is that they can be added to your walls, which won’t take up floor space, or if you don’t want them out all the time, simply pull them out and lean them against your walls when you need them for recording.

The DIY acoustic panels lend themselves well to being temporary if you need to store them away between recordings. Slide them under your bed to take up less space, or stack them in the closet.

Another option is to use a towel the color of your walls, so they blend seamlessly and will hardly be noticed. Want to display them like artwork? Choose decorative prints for your outside framed towel.

If you have a little extra budget, get a couple of different coarse woven fabric colors to create a design that flows with your home studio.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, easy to make acoustic panels that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re just starting out or are limited on space or money due to your budget, these DIY acoustic panels are the answer you’ve been looking for.

Buffering sound doesn’t have to be a nightmare. A simple solution is to work with what you have. Not everybody has the budget to get professional-grade acoustic foam, but now you have an easy workaround.

Get back to what you love doing, and stop worrying about the chaotic sound of noise bouncing off the walls. Good quality sound comes down to understanding how things work. Sound waves, vibration, and energy. Once you know the basics, there are always workarounds!

How to Connect a Guitar Amp to a Mixer

If you’re playing a gig on a large venue, arena, outdoor festival, or big stage, you’ll face the need to run your guitar amp through the PA system.

This is so that the guitar can be heard in settings where the amp alone won’t be enough.

It’s no secret; guitar players love their amps, and it’s tough for them to get past using one on a live stage.

Sticking a microphone in front of the speaker’s cone has been the go-to technique for miking a guitar amp. Just shove a mic against the speaker grill, and you’re good to go.

But using amplifier DIs is another way live sound engineers connect the guitar amp to the mixer, and for a good reason.

An amplifier DI, also called direct out, is an essential tool intended to capture the signal coming from the guitar amp before it goes to the speaker, eliminating the need for a microphone.

DIs do a critical job. They convert weak, high impedance signals from a guitar with magnetic pickups to a balanced line-level, low impedance signals that are compatible with your mixer.

Going Direct Vs. Using a Microphone: Which is Better?

As mentioned, there are two ways to connect a guitar amp to a mixer:

Method 1 – Using a microphone connected to the mixer to mic the amp

Method 2 – By using the amplifier’s direct output connection

This article will give you a basic run of each method and help you decide which is best for you, whether you’re a guitarist or a soundman.

Method 1 – Using a Microphone to Mic the Amp

Placing a mic on the amp is usually the simplest and most reliable way to accommodate every aspect of the guitarist’s setup, from the guitar itself to effects pedals, amp head, and even the cabinet.

When miking an amp, the most important thing to consider is the type of microphone you’re using. A good cardioid mic is your best bet, and the overall choice for most sound engineers is the Shure SM57.

This excellent mic is hard to beat in sound quality and durability. It captures the full essence of the guitar’s tone and is exceptionally hardy and resistant to weather conditions.

Regarding placement, it should be mounted on a short stand, ensuring that the head of the mic is 1 to 3 inches away from the grill and directly facing the speaker’s cone.

If a mellow tone is what you want to emphasize, with the mid and high frequencies standing out, place the mic’s head at the center of the speaker. To minimize the higher frequencies and get a fatter, warmer tone, place the mic closer to the speaker’s edge.

Another thing to consider is the angle between the mic and the speaker’s cone. To get the right angle, start by placing the mic in front of the speaker at 90 degrees (perpendicular), then slowly angle it towards 45 degrees to locate the sweet spot where the sound is even and smooth.

If you decide to use this method to connect your amp to a mixer, remember that there are several ways to mic a guitar amp. You can do it with one, two, or more microphones, with each technique delivering a different tone.

3 Tips to Consider Before Placing the Mic

If you decide to go with this method to connect a guitar amp to a mixer, there are a few things that you should consider to get the best tone possible. Overlooking these simple tips can greatly impact the sound.

1. Dial the Tone You Want on the Amp First

You should first dial in the EQ on the guitar amp until you get the tone you want before placing a mic in front of the cabinet.

You want to have the guitarist set his preferred EQ so that the sound coming from the amp’s speaker is exactly what he wants to hear. The reason is because trying to fix the sound later on the mixer side will be a problem no matter how well you equalize it.

Remember that when miking anything, you want the source to sound as intended before placing the mic. That way, you avoid many problems when equalizing the guitar amp on the mixer.

The following links provide you with starting EQ settings for your guitar amp for clean sound, rock, blues, and metal. These starting points can get you started, and from there, you can experiment to get the tone you want.

2. Know Where the Speaker is Located on the Cabinet

As you will find out when miking a guitar amp, where you place the mic will significantly affect the sound you get. For this reason, you need to know exactly where the speaker is located in the amplifier or cabinet you’re miking up, so you know where the center and sides are.

In most guitar amps, the speaker is centered in the cabinet. But depending on the amp you’ve got, sometimes it’s hard to tell. It may be off-center, up, or diagonal, so you want to look at it before placing the mic.

With most guitar amps, locating the speaker is simple because there is usually an open grille in the back from where you can identify the speaker’s position.

In other cases, the amp is completely sealed, and the front grille is made from a dense, heavy-duty cloth that makes it hard to see inside.

In such a case, you could use a flashlight like the one on your smartphone to light the grille to see inside. Then you can see the speaker and locate its center.

Another option is to use your fingers to feel the speaker’s edge, helping you figure out where the center is.

Don’t just assume that the speaker is always at the center; spend a minute and make sure you know where it’s located.

3. Watch Out for the Proximity Effect When Placing the Mic

Sometimes it’s easy to forget about the proximity effect that happens when you place a directional microphone up on a sound source, which can significantly change the tone.

The closer the mic gets to the sound source, the more bottom end you’ll get. As you pull the mic back, you’ll get a more balanced even tone. So remember to play with the proximity effect to your advantage to help you get the tone you are looking for.

To read an in-depth explanation of how to mic a guitar amp and get suggestions of the best microphones for miking amps, click the link.

Use the diagram below to help you visualize the connection.

Diagram for connecting a guitar amp to an audio mixer using a microphone.

The bottom line is that by using this method to connect a guitar amp to a mixer, you’ll get the most natural and warm tones a guitar can produce.

This technique also has some disadvantages such as signal bleed from other instruments, but if your goal is to achieve a mellow, balanced front house sound, capture the guitar’s full essence, and take advantage of the main PA system, this is the way to go.

Method 2 – By Using the Amplifier’s Direct Out Connection

Most guitar amps have an XLR or ¼ inch Jack output connector at the back called a direct out. This outputs a line-level signal that can be used to connect the amp to the mixing console or recording device.

The direct output connection sends the signal from the amplifier’s circuitry before it goes to the speaker, meaning the signal fed into the recording device or PA system is the sound produced by the guitar amp itself.

In other words, any tone processed by the guitar amp and pedals is the same one being output at the line level. Any sound you’re making is going to the front-of-house mixing console or recorder.

This means that 100% of the audio signal is transferred when using the amp’s direct-out connection.

The amplifier direct-out connection works in the absence of a microphone.

What does an amplifier DI do?

An amplifier DI allows you to directly connect your instrument to a mixing console, audio interface, or professional recorder, thus bypassing the need for a microphone.

The primary function of the amplifier’s DI is to perform line balancing and impedance matching/bridging.

It converts the unbalanced line output of a guitar or keyboard into a low-level balanced signal to minimize unwanted sound degradation due to interference and hum.

How to Set Up and Use an Amplifier DI with a Mixing Console?

Step 1

To set up and use an amplifier DI to connect it to a mixer, you’ll need an ordinary microphone cable. Identify the XLR output on your amplifier.

Connect the female end of the microphone cable to the XLR output. It’s advisable to do this with the equipment powered down.

The gain on your mixing console should also be turned all the way down and the channel completely muted before you connect.

It’s also advisable to ensure that phantom power on your channel is off. Amplifier DIs don’t need phantom power. In fact, if you’re using an older design DI you could potentially harm the output.

Step 2

The next step is to identify the XLR input on your mixer. Connect the male end of the mic cable to the XLR input. Keep in mind that you run the risk of overloading the preamp on some mixing consoles by running directly into XLR input.

That’s because some amplifier DIs have high output gain such that even with the gain on the mixer side all the way down, you still have too much signal coming in.

If this is the case with your console, it’s advisable to use a female XLR-TRS sleeve adapter like the one shown in the image below.

The adapter converts the XLR connector to a ¼ inch TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) balanced connector to maintain the balanced line-level signal but with another type of connector with higher input impedance.

Using a TRS plug allows you to safely connect to the ¼ inch input on your mixing console. The result is balanced sound and better audio simply because you’ll be bypassing the microphone preamp, which in most cases can add unwanted sound coloration.

Step 3

The final step is connecting your instrument to the amp. Again, be sure that the channel’s volume is turned all the way down to avoid sudden noise transients.

Now, turn up the guitar’s amp volume and ensure that there’s sound coming from the amplifier.

If the amp has a master volume, in some cases, you have to turn it up as well so that a signal comes out of the DI. This is because some master volumes are positioned before the DIs. If no sound is coming from the amp, there will be no sound going to the DI.

Next, play your guitar and slowly turn up the master volume to confirm that all the connections are working well.

Check out the diagram below which shows the connections you need to do to connect a guitar amp to the mixing console using the direct output feature.

This image is a diagram that shows how to connect a guitar amp to a mixer using the amps direct out connection

Mixer Gain Setting Procedure

Press the solo/PFL button. The solo light will blink to show you that you’re in mixer gain setting mode.
Next, adjust the trim/gain level to around 9/10 o’clock, then play your guitar. If it’s too loud, keep changing the gain until you find the ideal sound level for your instrument. This will vary from one guitar to another.

You’ll find that running directly into the XLR or microphone output will need a relatively low gain setting; otherwise, you risk overloading the mixer’s input.

Advantages of Using Amplifier DIs

It saves you money because you won’t need to buy a separate DI box
Simple and quick setup. All you need is a single XLR or microphone cable. Plug it in, and you’re good to go. The more the wires, the more the connections you need to make, and the more things can go wrong.

Disadvantages of Amplifier DIs

You risk overloading the input of some mixing consoles. This is often the case with cheaper entry model mixers. To fix this issue, you need to run an XLR-TRS adapter into your mixer’s line level.
Because amplifier DIs are added as a secondary feature of the amp, they tend to be of lower-quality, unlike external, professional DI boxes.
You won’t get the same tone as if you use a mic to pick up the amp’s sound.

The Best Way to Connect an Electric Guitar to a Mixer

Using an amplifier DI or an external DI box to connect your electric guitar to the mixer is quite frankly the easiest and cleanest way to get sound. Simply plug it in, and you’re set.

You don’t have to worry about signal bleed or degradation from poor miking techniques or someone walking by and knocking off the mic stand. You also don’t have to worry about the mic coloring and changing your sound.

Although a DI is the cleanest and most straightforward, it’s not necessarily the best for connecting electric guitars to an audio console. You’d honestly be giving up all the warm tones a guitar can produce.

Electric guitars tend to sound thin, plucky, and unnatural when connected directly to the mixer using an external DI box or the amp’s DI.

Just know that the guitar’s electronics, including its coil microphones, don’t capture the authentic sound we’re used to hearing from the instrument. This is because as the speaker inside the amp vibrates to generate the sound, the guitar’s tone is developed as it travels through the air.

If you are looking for a warm, natural tone, miking your amp is the way to go. This is not to say that going direct isn’t ideal in some cases, though. It all depends on your setup and what you are trying to accomplish.

Bottom Line

Above all else, the most important thing is to play and record your guitar in a way that doesn’t undermine your creative flow. There are no hard and fast rules when choosing to either go direct or with a microphone.

Every guitar player has different needs, so take your time to experiment with both and see what works for you.

How to Mic a Guitar Amp for Live Sound

If you’re a guitar player, ever since you held your first guitar, you’ve been on the seemingly never-ending search for the BEST possible tone.

Yet every time you think you’ve nailed the perfect tone on the guitar amp, it doesn’t sound as good when playing on a live stage, and the main reason is because the amp is not being miked and equalized correctly.

It’s no secret that having the best possible sound is the most critical part of the show, and one thing that can help you achieve that is knowing how to mic a guitar amp.

If you want the quick, short answer on how to mic a guitar amp, here it is… use a microphone such as the Shure SM57, place it on a short stand and make sure the mic’s head is one to three inches away from the grill and pointing directly to the speaker. If you want a mellow tone that emphasizes the mid and high frequencies, place the mic’s head at the center of the speaker. To minimize the higher frequencies and get a deeper, fatter, warmer tone, place the mic closer to the speaker’s edge.

For a more in-depth explanation, keep reading today’s article, as we’ll cover this topic in more detail. Let’s get started.

Why Do You Mic a Guitar Amp?

There are several reasons why you would want to mic your guitar amp. The biggest and most important reason is to achieve a mellow, balanced front house sound, capture the guitar’s full essence, and take advantage of the main PA system.

However, to dial in the best sound, it’s essential to use the right microphone, know how best to position it, and equalize it correctly.

Back in the day, guitar players and sound engineers would spend hours identifying the correct amp settings, getting the right microphones, and positioning them correctly. All this was done in a bid to produce good quality sound for that perfect performance.

Players should, however, understand that there’s no single surefire way to mic a guitar amp and that the sound output has to enhance the performance and not the other way round.

Today’s mics are designed in such a way that they can capture sound in every detail. The human ear can hear frequencies ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. A good mic should capture the full spectrum of a guitar to produce the best desirable sound for the listeners.

Let’s look at the different factors you need to consider to achieve your guitar’s full potential.

What Type of Microphone Delivers the Best Sound When Miking a Guitar Amp

We could go on and on about choosing the right microphone, but before we talk about which type might be better than the other, we have to get familiar with them.

The key thing to understand is that not all microphones are created equal. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the transducer that’s inside of it. The way the transducer works will tell you more about the type of mic you’re using.

When a microphone’s transducer is designed, it has specific patterns that dictate from which direction it captures or rejects sound.

These pickup patterns are called polar patterns, and there are several of them, but the most commonly used are cardioid, supercardioid, and hypercardioid. To learn more about the different microphone polar patterns click the link.

Now let’s delve deeper into how the three most popular types of mics, namely dynamic, condenser, and ribbon, can be used to mic a guitar amp.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones are very common, and most of them have a cardioid polar pattern, which means they are unidirectional. They only capture sound directly in front of them and reject noises from the sides and rear.

This characteristic makes them the most viable solution for live gigs where all sorts of unwanted noises can bleed into the main mix messing up the performance.

Out of the three types of mics, dynamic mics are the most recommended for use when miking guitar amps.

They are not particularly sensitive to loud sounds and can handle the sound coming out of a guitar or bass amp.

They’re also extremely durable and can handle drops and bumps, unlike condenser or ribbon mics.

The best part is that they are very affordable and sound really good, which is definitely a plus.

Condenser Microphones

Condenser microphones are very sensitive to sound and are characterized for picking up the most subtle nuances in sound.

They are available in more polar patterns and can pick up very high frequencies, producing crisp, clear sound. This is why they are generally used in recording studios or controlled environments.

The first thing to understand about condenser microphones is that they can be used to record guitar amps, but feedback is a big issue in live situations where the signal has to be monitored and played back.

They are also more sensitive to loud sounds, so you’ll need to be careful with your guitar amp volume.

Extremely loud situations can potentially cause damage to the membrane, and you don’t want that to happen.

Generally speaking, condenser mics are more sophisticated than dynamic mics, and for that reason, they tend to be more expensive.

Ribbon Microphones

Of the three mics, ribbon microphones can produce warm, organic, and vintage sound.

They are the most fragile mics around, so you’ll need to be extremely careful when handling them.

They have a figure-8 polar pattern, which means they are very sensitive to sound from the front and back but completely deaf to sound from the sides.

However, the biggest downside to ribbon mics is that they can’t easily isolate the source of your sound. This is not ideal in live sound situations or untreated rooms with all sorts of bouncing frequencies.

That said, pairing up a ribbon microphone with a dynamic microphone is the best way to capture the sound from your guitar amp, as they will deliver the classic, 60’s, and 70’s era vintage guitar sound.

When to Use Each Type of Microphone

Generally speaking, dynamic and some ribbon microphones are excellent for miking up guitar amps during live performance. At the same time, condenser mics tend to deliver better results in recording studios and controlled environments.

Keep in mind that condenser mics will also deliver a bright, crisp sound that is not typical in electric guitar. This is why they are often used for miking acoustic guitars with metal strings, as their sound is much brighter than the electric guitar.

Similarly, dynamic and ribbon microphones can be paired with loud instruments with mid to low frequencies, while condenser microphones work better with quieter instruments with higher frequencies.

This isn’t a static rule though, in the end, your personal taste will be the determining factor.

In some cases, you could mix and match microphones to get the perfect sound when miking guitar amps for live sound.

Best Position for Placing the Mic

Here comes the most critical part – how best to position a microphone in front of the amp.

This is very important because the sonic output directly relates to where you place the mic in relation to the amp’s speaker.

There are two things to consider in this scenario: distance and angle at which the mic will face the amp.

1. Distance Between The Mic and Speaker’s Cone

This may come as a surprise, but even an inch difference in distance can significantly impact the tone produced.

The most recommended place to put the mic is directly in front of the speaker’s cone. That’s because this position gives you the most vivid representation of the guitar amp’s tone.

But the most confusing part is which part of the speaker’s cone the mic should face. The answer isn’t as straightforward, and here’s the reason.

The closer you move the center of the speaker’s cone, the more high ends and high mids you’ll get in the guitar’s tone.

The more you move away from the center of the speaker’s cone, the more bottom ends and lower mids you’ll get. And if you place the mic at either edge of the speaker cone, it will pick up a muffled and bassy tone.

If you have two mics, you can place them in two different positions to get a more rounded tone. This works perfectly well if there’s only one guitar player in the band.

If you have a dynamic mic, it’s recommended to position it one to three inches away from the speaker’s cone. If you place it too far, you may get a sound that’s “distant,” and the mic might even pick up other background noises that you don’t want.

If you have a condenser mic, you should put it further away from the grill, mostly because it is more sensitive and you want to avoid distortion. Ideally, you should place it about two to six inches away from the speaker’s cone for you to get the right tone.

I would recommend having both the condenser and dynamic microphones for that fuller, warmer sound, or a combination of a ribbon and a dynamic mic for a vintage mellow sound.

2. Angle Between The Mic and Speaker’s Cone

Aside from distance, the angle at which the mic faces the speaker also has an effect on tone. If you position your mic directly in front of the amp’s speaker (perpendicular) and notice that the tone is a bit harsh, then the mic is picking up too many higher-ends and higher-mids.

Positioning the mic at an angle from the cone of the speaker can help correct that. All you have to do is move the mic closer to the edge of the speaker.

To do this, start by placing your mic directly in front of the speaker’s cone (at 90 degrees) then slowly angle it (towards 45 degrees) until you find that ‘’sweet spot’’ where the tone is smooth and even.

As you move outside the 90-degree angle, you’ll start to notice a slight drop in the high-ends. The bottom-ends are not affected by changing the angle of the mic.

As mentioned earlier, if you want that muddy tone, you’ll need to move the mic further away from the center of the speaker’s cone.

Best Microphones for Miking Guitar Amps for Live Sound

The are several microphones that are excellent for miking guitar amplifiers for live sound, but the top five are:

Shure SM57 – Budget-friendly option delivering balanced tone accentuating high frequencies
Sennheiser e609 Silver – Easy to install, balanced sound, budget-friendly
Sennheiser e906 – Great overall tone offering a three-position switchable presence filter
The Audix i5 – Designed for instruments delivering an accurate sound reproduction
Beyerdynamic M160 – Overall winner. It delivers excellent bass response, warm mid-ranges, and silky-smooth highs combined to produce a unique vintage sound.

The Shure SM57

The industry standard and the most recommended mic to use is the Shure SM57. It’s the most popular choice by far for live sound, and there is a good reason for that.

It has an impressive frequency response of 40 Hz to 15,000 HZ and fully captures the essence of the guitar’s tones for the best possible sound.

From guitar, drums, and bass to vocals and even saxophones, this microphone can be used to mike practically everything.

With regards to durability, it is incredibly hardy and can take quite a beating. It is also resistant to weather conditions.

It has a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound that’s directly in front of it and rejects unwanted noises coming from the sides and rear.

Check Price on Amazon

Sennheiser e609 Silver

As one of the leading microphone manufacturers, Sennheiser offers a couple of excellent options that are tailored for miking guitar amps, with the e609 being an affordable option that delivers outstanding results.

The e609 Silver is a dynamic mic with a supercardioid polar pattern, which means that it has a tighter pickup angle than cardioids doing a better job at rejecting sound from the sides.

The frequency response goes from 40 Hz – 15,000 Hz, and it offers a relatively flat response curve between 100 Hz to 1500 Hz with a -10 dB boost between 1500 Hz to 4500 Hz.

In simpler terms, what this means is that it will pick up the sound as accurate as it sounds on the amp, with a slight boost on the lower-high frequencies. The sound captured by this mic is true to the original sound.

Other features worth mentioning are: it comes with a rugged metal body with an advanced shock-mount design for the transducer to minimize handling noise and a hum compensating coil to reduce noise in the audio signal.

Another cool design feature of this microphone is that you can hang it on the guitar amp for stand-free performance.

Check Price on Amazon

Sennheiser e906

The e906 is a step up from the e609 Silver. This dynamic, supercardioid mic was specially designed for miking guitar amplifiers.

It features a full sound response and swift attack with a flat-shaped head, making it ideal for miking amp faces with an extra-resistant reinforced metal body to ensure durability for years to come.

With its three-position switchable presence filter, you can quickly change the pickup characteristics between bright, moderate, or dark tone.

Just as with the e609, this mic can hang on the guitar amp, so you won’t need a stand to use it.

Its frequency response is between 40 Hz – 18,000 Hz. The response curve is relatively flat between 200 Hz and 2500 Hz. Depending on the presence filter selection, you can boost or decrease frequencies between 1500 Hz and 6000 Hz.

What I am trying to say is that with this mic, you’ll get a more natural, authentic sound when miking your guitar amp. But, if you feel that you need a small boost or decrease in the lower high frequencies, all you have to do is change the switch position, and there will be a small frequency correction to deliver a tone that suits your needs.

Check Price on Amazon

The Audix i5

The Audix i5 is a dynamic instrument microphone designed and built in the USA with the highest quality control standards. It is specifically tailored to be used for stage and studio applications.

Thanks to its cardioid pickup pattern, it helps reject feedback providing you with more isolation control.

When it comes to accurate sound reproduction, the i5 excels because it is equipped with a very low mass diaphragm, translating into a more natural sound reproduction.

Its comprehensive frequency response ranges from 50 Hz to 16,000 Hz, providing crisp, clear, natural tones that don’t require much equalization.

Positioning this microphone is very easy thanks to its small, compact size. Compared to the Sennheiser models, the only drawback is that it needs a small stand to place its head in front of the speaker cabinet.

Another great thing about the i5 is the durability. It is manufactured with a precision cast zinc alloy body, dent-resistant steel grill, durable black E-coat finish, and gold plated XLR connector

Check Price on Amazon

Beyerdynamic M160

The M160 from Beyerdynamic is an excellent ribbon microphone. It was designed considering all the drawbacks of a regular ribbon mic and improved every detail to deliver the best natural true-tone of what is placed in front of it.

It is a dynamic, hypercardioid microphone, and it comes with two pure aluminum ribbons diaphragms installed inside the capsule!

One of the drawbacks of ribbon mics is that they have a figure 8 pickup pattern, which tends to be a problem when miking instruments in live events, as they pickup sound from the front and back.

This is not the case with the M160. It offers a very tight hypercardioid pickup angle, which makes it a must-use microphone if you want to get classic vintage sound when miking guitar amps without the drawbacks of regular ribbon mics.

One of the best features of this mic is its characteristically warm and natural sound. It will be hard to find another mic in this price range that delivers such a warm and mellow sound. It provides an excellent bass response, warm mid-ranges, and silky-smooth highs combined to produce an exceptional vintage sound.

The frequency response is between 40 Hz – 18,000 Hz, and its response curve is as flat as it can get between 100 Hz and 2000 Hz. From 2000 Hz to 8000 Hz, there is only a boost of 2 dB, making this mic a perfect option to mic a guitar amp for live sound or in a recording studio.

Sound Sample

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In Short

If you want a deeper, fatter sound, position the microphone towards the edge of the speaker. If the sound gets too bassy, slightly move it towards the center of the speaker cone.
Instead, if a warmer smoother sound is what you are looking for, position the microphone at the center of the cone to emphasize the mid and high frequencies.
Make sure the mic’s head is pointing straight to the speaker. In other words, it needs to be perpendicular to the protective grill. If you want to test different sound variations, Begin with the mic pointed at a 90-degree angle towards the speaker’s cone, and slowly change the angle until you find that ‘’sweet spot.’’

I usually say there’s no right or wrong method, experiment until you find what works for you. Have fun while at it!

How to Livestream a Wedding

More than 2 million couples get married every year in the United States. These are joyous occasions and are the perfect time to celebrate with your nearest and dearest.

And boy, do they love to show their affection! In fact, on average, wedding guests spend over $800 per wedding on travel, accommodation, gifting, and clothes!

In the past year, though, we have unfortunately seen fewer people traveling safely to celebrate weddings together due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Thankfully, it is still possible to share your special day with the ones you love and keep a recording for yourself! Want to know more?

Then you’re in the right place! Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to livestream a wedding.

What is Livestreaming and Why Use It?

Livestreaming allows you to share videos in real-time. This is a bit like watching live TV programs.

There are many benefits to watching a wedding on a livestream, especially when people’s travel options are limited. This means you can share your special day anywhere in the world, so you can even expand your guest list!

It is also possible to record a livestream, meaning that you can record the wedding event to enjoy in the future, as well as sharing it on your big day.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of our top tips for livestreaming a wedding.

Three Methods You can Use to Livestream a Wedding

Depending on your budget and how professional you want the livestream to be, there are three options you can choose from.

Building a Pro live video streaming setup
Using your phone or table
Hiring a professional videographer

Suppose you are tech-savvy and can handle dealing with several audio and video equipment. In that case, you can opt for a pro setup that will provide the best DIY results, and it doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars. Plus, you can also use the system for any future event you decide to livestream

Instead, if you choose a more straightforward method, you don’t need a lot of equipment to stream your wedding. In fact, you can do it directly from your smartphone. However, professional equipment will produce a better image and audio quality.

Some people also choose to hire a professional videographer when filming a wedding live. This guarantees a good quality stream, and they may even be able to provide their recording equipment. It also means that your friends and family at the wedding will be free to enjoy the day without distractions.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tutorial article assumes that you have a photographer in charge of taking pictures. This post only explains methods for livestreaming the event.

This is What You’ll Need Depending on the Method You Choose

DIY Professional Live Video Streaming Setup

With a professional DIY method, you will need several pieces of audio and video equipment. This setup will deliver the best quality and will be the most flexible.

One of the main objectives is to provide the best possible experience to the viewers that could not make it to the event.

The good thing about this setup is that you will have a wireless transmitter and receiver to connect the DSLR camera. That will give you the freedom to walk around the venue without having cables hanging around.

Cables are necessary, but they are annoying, plus they are tripping hazards that you don’t want to deal with.

To pull this off using this method, you need at least two people. One to be the cameraman to walk around and get all the video shots, and the other person to take care and monitor the livestream.

These are the equipment you’ll need for this setup. I provide links to Amazon if you want to check them out. I’ll also include a diagram to show you how to set them up.

This is the gear you’ll need:

DSLR camera with HDMI output.
512 Gb micro SD card for the camera to record a backup on the camera at 1080p. If you decide to shoot at 4k you would need one 512Gb memory card for every 1.5 hours of recorded video – The recommended one is the SanDisk 512GB Extreme micro SDXC as it writes data at speeds of up to 90MB/s. Make sure that the camera you are planning to use is capable of reaching such speeds.
3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for Cameras – the recommended stabilizer is the Zhiyun Weebill S.
A shotgun microphone for the camera that way it can pick up high definition sound.
Hollyland Mars 300 5G Wireless HDMI Video Transmission System. The transmitter connects to the camera, and the receiver connects to the video capture card or switcher.
To power the transmitter unit, you need the Sony NP-F style batteries – the recommended one is the NP-F550 RAVPower battery charger with the battery pack. The receiver unit can be powered by the included AC adapter or, if you prefer, by the same battery type.
A Replacement battery kit for the camera. RAVPower makes some of the best replacement battery packs for the different camera brands. Make sure to get one that is compatible with your camera.
Short 0.5 ft or 1ft HDMI cables for the connections, you’ll need at least two – The recommended one is the Monoprice HDMI cable. Choose from 0.5 or 1 ft cable.
Video capture card – The recommended one is ElGato Cam Link 4K. It can broadcast live via DSLR, camcorder, or Action Cam. The resolution is 1080p at 60 fps or 4k at 30 fps. It connects to the computer via USB 3.0 for a faster transfer rate. For compatibility issues with the specific camera you want to use, check here.
A portable computer with the following specs:
- Processor – you’ll want the fastest processor you can have access to. The minimum I recommend is the Intel i5 processor.
- RAM memory – no less than 8Gb. The more, the better.
- Storage – a solid-state drive (SSD) with no less than 500Gb free if you plan to record the stream on the computer, which I highly recommend to have more redundancy.
- Operating system – I recommend a 64-bit OS.
- Ports – you’ll need to make sure that the computer you chose has enough ports as well as the type of ports you’ll need. It needs to have a minimum of two USB 3.0 ports. If it has more, it’s better because you’ll have more flexibility.
A strong internet connection and a backup if possible.

Steps to Follow for Setting Up a Professional DIY Livestream

Use the diagram below for your reference.

Camera Side Setup

Make sure to charge all the batteries you need. This includes the replacement batteries for your camera and wireless devices. My recommendation is to always have as many batteries as possible because the last thing you want is to run out of power when you need it the most.
Install the memory card of the DSLR camera. The micro SD card needs to be empty and formatted by the device. When dealing with memory cards, one crucial piece of advice is not to use cheap, after-market brands because it will be a disaster waiting to happen. Memory cards from known brands are expensive for a reason; they are reliable. Another piece of advice is to have backup memory cards just in case you run out of space.
It’s time to install a shogun microphone to the camera. I recommend these types of mics because you want the audio quality to be as good as the video you’re shooting, as it is 50% of the experience. Selecting the right mic for your camera will depend on your budget and quality. Here a list of the top 5 mics for DSLR cameras; click the link to check it out.
Install the camera in the gimbal stabilizer. If you don’t know how to use the Zhiyun Weebill S stabilizer, you can watch a tutorial on YouTube. A stabilizer is a must tool to get professional-looking video shots. There won’t be any bumps in the video with this tool, and your audience will thank you for that.
Connect the Hollyland Mars 300 transmitter to the camera. Use a short HDMI flexible cable to connect the HDMI Out from the camera to the Transmitter’s HDMI Input. The unit is compact and lightweight, and it should be easy to clip it to the side of the camera or on the gimbal itself. It comes with a shoe mount adapter to secure it to the camera.

Now is time to set up the system on the computer side. This is where you’ll receive the camera’s signal and connect it to the computer to stream it.

Computer Side Setup

Connect the Hollyland Mars 300 receiver to the AC power adapter.
Use a short, flexible HDMI cable to connect the receiver unit to the ElGato video capture card.
Connect the video capture card to an available USB port. I recommend using a USB 3.0 port for better transfer speeds. The ElGato Cam Link 4K is a plug-and-play device, so you don’t need to install any drivers for it to work.
Download and install El Gato’s “4K CAPTURE UTILITY” For Windows or MAC, here is the link. In the “Select Your Product” drop-down menu, choose “CAM LINK 4K.” In the “Select Your System” drop-down menu, select your operating system.
This program will record on your hard drive everything that is being streamed. My recommendation is not to skip this step because if the internet connection fails during the ceremony, you can still upload it later for people to watch. Plus, it will give you an extra layer of redundancy if the memory card on the DSLR camera fails.
Open the streaming platform you want to use, whether Facebook Live, YouTube, Zoom, or any streaming platform. If you have a reliable internet connection with enough bandwidth, you can even livestream the wedding to multiple platforms.
Go into the streaming platform settings and click on “Video” to select the ElGato capture card as your video source. Make sure also to select “HD” or the highest quality possible for your stream. Just make sure that your internet connection can handle it. Here is where testing everything to fine-tune the setup plays a critical role.
Run a test with all of the equipment to see how it performs and also to rule out any potential problems.

diagram for a diy pro set up to livestream an event

Expanding the Setup Using a Video Switcher

If you want to go a step further, you can add a couple of cameras to have different shot angles. Going this route will require you to have a team of people to pull it off. Besides, you’ll need a video transmission system per camera being used.

This will also require to use a video switcher so that you can change between video feeds. One of the best video switchers on the market today that doesn’t break the bank is the Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini HDMI Live Switcher.

Using the ATEM mini, you can connect up to four cameras or video feeds and use a USB cable to connect it to any computer.

The best part is that the PC will see it as a built-in webcam, so all streaming software for social media platforms will work without a problem!

Another remarkable feature of the Blackmagic ATEM mini is that you can have an audio line connected straight from the main audio mixer, so whatever comes out of the main PA system will be streamed as well. This provides a lot of flexibility when dealing with audio signals.

Using the ATEM Software Control provides you with the Fairlight audio mixer allowing you to change the EQ and dynamics before sending the signal to the streaming platform.

The ATEM Mini includes 4 standards converted HDMI inputs, USB webcam out, HDMI out, DVE for a picture in picture, transition effects, green screen chroma key, 20 stills media pool for titles, and free software control.

Here is a diagram for setting up a livestream using the Blackmagic ATEM Mini. Use it for your reference.

diagram for a diy multi-camera set up to livestream an event

Using Your Phone or Tablet For Livestreaming a Wedding – Simpler Method

Now that I have shown you the DIY professional method, it might seem intimidating to deal with all of the equipment.

You might want a simpler, more straightforward method that does require investing a couple of thousand dollars just to stream your cousin’s wedding.

So here we go… read on to learn how to stream a wedding using your iPhone, Android phone, or tablet. This method can also deliver excellent audio and video experience to the people who couldn’t make it to the event.

This is what you’ll need:

A smartphone – It could be an iPhone or Android with enough memory to store the entire ceremony. If your phone doesn’t have enough space, you’ll need to expand the storage using a Micro SD card – the recommended one is the SanDisk 512GB Extreme micro SDXC as it writes data at speeds of up to 90MB/s. Make sure your phone is compatible.
The DJI OM4 handheld 3-axis smartphone gimbal stabilizer – Highly recommended to avoid sudden bumps in the shot.
External microphone for better audio quality – Highly recommended. For iPhone or Android smartphones, the best option is the Shure MV88+.
Power bank to keep the phone charged. You don’t want to run out of power in the middle of the ceremony.
Any additional accessories for connecting everything. For a setup exactly as shown in the diagram below, you’ll need:
- 1 x Triple cold shoe gimbal microphone mount extension bar – Check Price on Amazon
- 1 x Holder for the portable power bank – Check Price on Amazon
- 1 x double lightning splitter, if using an iPhone – Check Price on Amazon
Lastly, a strong internet connection and a backup, if possible

Steps to Follow for Using Your iPhone or Android for Livestreaming a Wedding

Verify that your phone and power bank are fully charged and ready to go.
Your smartphone must have enough storage space to record what you are streaming. That way, you have redundancy in case you run into problems due to the internet connection while streaming.
Install the external microphone pointing in the direction of the lens.
Now it’s time to install the phone to the gimbal stabilizer. With the stabilizer, the livestream will be smooth and free of sudden bumps typically found in amateur videos.
Connect the smartphone to the power bank to keep the phone fully charged during the livestream. When streaming, the battery charge decreases rapidly.
At this point, connect to the streaming platform you want to use and test to make sure that it works well and that your internet connection is reliable.
Don’t forget to allow HD quality video and audio on the platform so that your viewers watch the ceremony in high-quality video.
Run the test several times to pinpoint and find any issues ahead of time.

diagram for setting up your smartphone to livestream an event

Give Your Equipment a Test Run

Before your wedding livestream, it is a good idea to give everything a test run. You might want to do this at the wedding rehearsal or at another time.

When testing your equipment, you should:

Practice setting up the camera where you want it and check if the position works throughout the wedding (you might want to record your rehearsal for this)
Practice walking the camera through the service
Ensure the internet connection is reliable
Check that all of your equipment is fully charged up and remains on charge before the wedding

Giving your equipment a test run will highlight any issues that need fixing. This will ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of the event.

Pay Attention to the Sound

Watching a wedding live is all well and good, but your remote guests won’t know what is going on if they can’t hear you. This is why it is worth thinking carefully about the audio equipment that you want to use.

It’s straightforward to record high-quality audio on your iPhone. This does require careful positioning, though, so this is something you should test out in your practice run.

Make sure to use a different device to monitor your livestream. That way, you can know if the audio is distorting or if the video feed is lagging.

This requires a little more setting up, but it will make all the difference to the people watching at home.

Send Out the Link in Advance

There are many great livestreaming platforms that you can use to bring people together on your big day. It is worth doing some research to find one that works for you.

When choosing a platform, make sure you go for the one you have some experience using. This will ensure that things run smoothly on the day. A lot of high-quality streaming platforms also offer technical support, which can be helpful if it’s your first time streaming.

In order to invite people to the stream of your wedding, you usually send out a link to the livestream. When you do this, make sure you provide details about the date and time that your livestream is due to start.

It’s a good idea to start the stream a little while before the ceremony begins. This gives people a chance to get set up at home, and it’ll make them feel like they’re arriving with the other guests, which is a nice touch!

A Word of Caution Regarding Privacy

You should publicly avoid sharing the link to your livestream so that only people on your guest list can access it. Make sure that you share a ‘private’ link as well, rather than a public one. This means that your guests won’t be able to share it with anyone else.

It is a good idea to do a practice run with your link sharing shortly before your wedding. This will allow you to troubleshoot any issues with the streaming platform or connectivity.

Get Ready to Share Your Special Day!

Now you know exactly how to livestream a wedding (and do it well!), you’ll be able to share your special day with all of your loved ones – no matter where they are.

Don’t forget to ask your videographer to save a recording of the stream as well, so that you can cherish it forever.

For more tips on capturing great live sound on your special day, check out these top tips.

How to Record a Podcast Remotely – 5 Tips You Need to Know

Are you looking to record a podcast but unsure of how to do so remotely. Maybe you have guests that you want to invite on the show that live far away. Perhaps you want to start one with your friend(s) who live in another state.

Whatever the case might be, you can still achieve the podcast of your dreams by learning how to record a podcast remotely. Doing so can help you make episodes that your listeners will love without sacrificing the quality.

In this post, we present five tips you’ll want to consider when starting a podcast or running one through these unprecedented times.

Tip # 1 – Use the Double-Ender Method For Remote Podcast Recording

The double-ender is hands down one of the best ways to record a remote podcast. You’ll get the absolute best audio quality and have full control over the entire process.

This is a method where every participant in the podcast episode records their audio on their software or recording device. In other words, multiple recordings are happening simultaneously on each end of the call.

After the podcast, everyone sends in their audio file, and all the conversations are stitched together, edited and mixed. This allows for the cleanest, most professional recording possible.

All you need is a recording software such as Adobe Audition, Quick Time, or Audacity, and a platform like Skype or Zoom to connect with the other participants.

Using the double-ender method avoids unwanted background noises. It prevents connectivity issues and audio compressions you might get from over the internet connections.

While this method is pretty labor-intensive because an editor will have to line up clips and transfer files, you end up with the highest quality recording because all participants record directly into their software or recording devices.

Planning Stages for Recording a Podcast From Two Different Locations

Here’s what you need to get started:

Zoom or Skype to communicate with each other
QuickTime or Audacity to record your conversations
An external microphone – Highly recommended

Instructions for Hosts

Connect the external USB microphone and headphones. If you don’t have an external mic, you can also use a headset with a microphone
Open your favorite recording software (Audacity, QuickTime, etc.)
Open Zoom
Start recording
Count 3, 2, 1, and clap at the same time as your guest. The clap serves as an audio marker to help in syncing up tracks when editing. Make sure to allow a couple of seconds after the clap as a buffer to help when editing the audio file
Start the conversation.

Instructions for Guests

Ensure you have at least 3Gb of free space in your computer to record the interview
Ask your guest if they have an external USB microphone they can use. If that’s not possible, they can also use earbuds with a microphone.
Open QuickTime or any recording software they are comfortable using
Open Zoom and ensure the earbuds are correctly hooked up to the computer
Start recording
Before beginning the interview, the guest should countdown 3, 2, 1 at the same time as the host and clap to create an audio marker

Recording a Double-Ender Using Zoom and QuickTime

Open QuickTime on your computer
Choose “File” and click “New Audio Recording.”
To adjust the recording settings, click the drop-down arrow on the right side of the record button. After that, choose the corresponding audio device you are using. If a USB mic or earbuds with a mic is being used for the recording, click “high” to select the recording quality
Reduce volume level to zero (to the left)
Start your recording by clicking the “Record” button
Click it again to stop your recording

Once both you and your guest are done recording, have your guest send in their file.

Here’s how to do it:

Go to “File,” click “Export,” then choose “Audio only” and export the file to your desktop.

We usually recommend WeTransfer, DropBox, or Google Drive to send files. They are quick, easy, and convenient.

Using The Zencastr Platform for Remote Podcast Recording – The Best Remote Recording Option

Zencastr is the best browser-based recording platform that allows you to record high-quality audio on a web browser.

Separate tracks are recorded for every guest, meaning there are no audio losses or dropouts due to poor internet connection, as is the case with Skype.

On the technical side of things, the audio is recorded in lossless 16-bit, 44.1k WAV resulting in the best possible audio quality. And because this platform uses its built-in VoIP service, you do not need to use Zoom or Skype because both voice and text chats are available.

Besides, Zencastr has excellent postproduction features for merging and editing separate tracks into one file.

What’s more? You can automatically upload your files to Dropbox and Google Drive directly. Even more intriguing is the live editing soundboard that lets you insert intros and outros as you record.

Using a platform like Zencastr takes all the stress away from the host and guest. I say this because if the person you are planning to interview remotely is not tech-savvy, you won’t know if their setup is correct. What’s more, you won’t even know if the interview on their side is being recorded.

With Zencastr all you do is send an invitation link, and the host controls the tech side of things. All the guest has to do is connect their earbuds with a mic, accept the invitation and that’s it.

They have launched Hi-Fi video recording on the same platform. The best part is that the guests don’t have to install anything, all they have to do is have a webcam connected to the computer, and the host takes care of the rest.

Video Credits: Zencastr

Zencastr Pricing

With regards to pricing, there are two tiers available to choose from: free and professional. The free tier allows you to invite only two guests at a time and offers up to 8 hours of recordings a month. You also get high-quality MP3 recordings and paid postproductions.

The professional tier goes for $18 a month when billed annually and $20 when billed monthly. It gives you unlimited recording hours with as many guests as you want. It also delivers high-quality lossless WAV files, a live editing soundboard, and 10 hours of automatic postproduction per month.

Here’s a step-by-step process of how to record a remote interview using Zencastr

Recording a remote interview using Zencastr is simple and straightforward.

Log in and create an account. Only the host needs to open an account, but none of the guests need to do that.
At the top, you’ll see the Create New Recording button. Click on it to create a new episode. A pop up will ask you to name the episode. Give your episode a name.
Next, your browser will ask you to confirm access to a microphone. You’ll have to confirm this; otherwise, it will not let you into the session.
Once you do that, you’ll have access to your recording space. Be sure to check the Settings Gear at the top right corner to verify that your audio input and output devices are working correctly.
When you’re all set, hit the Invite button to send a pop-up link to your guests so they can join you.
Once your guests join, all they have to do is write their names. Nothing more. Their dashboard will look just like yours.

For the best audio quality, ask your guests if they have an external microphone. If they don’t, they can use their earbuds with a mic for the recording.

Now hit the Record button. Only the host can do this, and not the guests. Voila, you’re live. Start your interview.
At the end of the interview, click the Stop Recording button. Keep in mind that it’s only the host that can click the recording buttons.
Edit the podcast as needed, and that’s it.

Alternative Options for Recording a Remote Podcast

Using Google Voice

Google Voice is yet another great way to record a remote interview. You only need the app and your smartphone or computer. It’s completely free. Keep in mind that this option is only available in the US and a few other countries.

If you want to record a phone conversation with a guest and bypass third-party software, Google Voice is your best bet. However, recording off your phone is not recommended.

For you to get high-quality audio, you need to use your computer and an external recording device. Google does not record calls by default. You need to enable call recording.

Here’s how to do it:

Log in to your online Google Voice account
Click on the Gear icon at the top right corner. It will give you a drop-down menu
Select Settings from the menu
Choose Call Options and enable recording before making a phone call
To access your recorded files, click on the Recorded menu on the left. It will display all your recorded files
You can play your file, download it to your computer or send it by email to someone
Calls are not saved on your computer or cellphone but on Google’s servers

Note: Calls made in the U.S. and Canada are free of charge if you have a Gmail account. International calls are charged at low rates. Keep in mind that prices are not dependent on the country you’re calling to, but the country you’re calling from.

Tip # 2 – Grab Essential Equipment

The great thing about podcasts is that you get the opportunity to create a show that’s entirely your own. You can include anyone that you want, say anything you want, talk about whatever you want, and so on.

Many podcasters take a tremendous time to build their brand but forget about one crucial aspect: sound clarity.

Put yourself in the shoes of your future listeners: would you listen to a podcast with bad quality? Would you enjoy listening to someone that sounds like they’re talking out of a phone? Probably not.

Even if you are talking to your guests/co-hosts over a Skype or phone call, you can use separate equipment to make the episode sound like you’re in the same room.

Be sure to have a good quality USB-microphone, headphones, and laptop/desktop (if you don’t currently have one). These are all one-time expenses, making your podcast cost-efficient.

We have an entire article dedicated to the essential equipment you need to get started podcasting.

To save money, you can also use free services like Slack for communicating with your co-hosts and Zoom for getting all of your hosts and guests in one place. It makes for a tremendous result that your listeners will enjoy hearing.

Tip # 3 – Set Definitive Dates

One of the most challenging aspects of recording a podcast remotely is getting everyone to sit down at one point in time to record. The more people you have, the harder it will be to pull off.

To prevent complications, there are two things you need to prioritize:

Set definitive dates
Overcommunicate with your co-hosts and guests

As previously mentioned, be sure to use an app such as Slack to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Post constant reminders and make sure to double-check everyone’s availability at least two days before recording.

It’s essential that your podcast posts frequent content. To make that happen, everyone needs to accommodate a consistent recording schedule.

Tip # 4 – Delegate Tasks

One of the biggest perks of having multiple people involved in a podcast is delegating specific tasks.

For example, say you run your podcast with two other co-hosts. One person can be in charge of editing the recording and running your podcast hosting platform. Another person can run the social media digital marketing, and the third can contact possible guests.

If you’re flying solo, then have no fear! You can slowly chip away at the different aspects of your podcast each day. Record on Monday, have the episode edited by Wednesday night, and schedule it to be posted on Thursday or Friday.

When recording a podcast with remote guests using the double-ender method, be sure to have them send their audio file as soon as you’re finished recording. That way, it’s available to you whenever you sit down to edit the episode.

Tip # 5 – Compile a Guest Dream List

Many podcasters will tell you that one of the biggest struggles you’ll face is running out of content to talk about. Everyone hits a wall at one point or another in their podcasting. They either run out of topic ideas, run out of guests to invite on the show, etc.

The only way to prevent this problem is by being proactive instead of reactive by creating a dream list of guests you’d like to have on your show. This will naturally lend topics that your episodes can cover.

For example, the Podcast Read to Lead is about reviewing books and getting behind the author’s brain. As part of that, Jeff Brown (the host) interviews an author of a new book each week, in which they discuss the book at length and how it applies to the listener’s life.

Start thinking about the people you’d want to have as guests on your podcast one day. Make sure to make a list of famous and not-famous people. Don’t stop until you’ve created a list of 100 people.

Choose 20 of them from your list that will be easiest for you to reach out to. Start to invite them to your show!

How to Record a Podcast Remotely: Your Equipment is the Secret Sauce

Remote interviews have become a fact of life for every podcaster, and in the wake of Covid-19, more so than ever. Because we rarely get a do-over when it comes to interviews, getting the recording right the first time is very important.

Now that you have seen several steps on recording a podcast remotely be sure to use these tips to your advantage.

Make sure to read this article for more information on how to grow your podcast audience and establishing a firm following in no time at all.

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