Switching to Digital Mixers: Is it Time?

Switching to Digital Mixers...
Since Yamaha introduced the first digital mixers in the early 1990's, the world has rapidly embraced the new technology as the standard in live sound.

For places of worship, however, the decision to switch from analog to digital mixing can often be a difficult one.

Limited funds are often allocated to other areas of ministry, leaving many churches using antiquated sound equipment and unaware of the potential benefits of going digital.

Digital Mixers; The Pros
Digital mixers offer many features that analog mixers do not. One of the most useful is programmable sliders, an automation device which allows engineers to keep tabs on more channels than would be possible with their two hands alone.

Digital mixers also offer a great variety of EQ effects, many of which which are available at the touch of a button and require very little tweaking. In addition, digital mixers are less susceptible than their analog counterparts to interference from outside sources (cell phones, radios, etc.) and produce a practically nonexistent amount of hiss.

Digital Mixers; The Cons
This is not to say that digital mixers are perfect. One of their biggest drawbacks is the minuscule delay caused by the digitization of audio input. This delay, although slight, can be disconcerting for performers utilizing in-ear monitors. However, for most churches, the ease and capabilities of digital monitors far outweigh any faults.

Which Digital Mixer is Best?
Which mixer is right for your church depends very much on your worship needs. If your worship includes no instrumental input (or a very small worship band with few microphones), then a 16-channel mixer would probably be sufficient for your needs. One dependable model is the PreSonus StudioLive, which offers terrific ease of use, rapid computer connectivity and excellent sound quality. This model sells for around $2,000.

Don't Buy Until You Shop Around!
If your church has a larger worship band, and must deal with ten or more microphones, it is probably best to get a larger board (one containing at least 24 channels, and preferably 32).

A good choice here might be the Tascam DM-3200, a solid mixer sporting 32 channels, flexible bus routing, LED ring encoders and more. The Tascam DM-3200 lists at over $4,000, but many retailers offer this model for around $3,500. Before purchasing one, shop around to make sure you're getting the best deal available!

The Church Media Group is a full fledged Media Group for Churches, Ministries and Houses of Worship. Church Media Group specializes in Church and Ministry Webs Design, Ministry Web Hosting, Church Audio Visual and Sound, worship songs, worship software, sermon illustrations, christian powerpoint, worship videos and all facets related to Church Media

Source: Karlton McIver, http://churchmediagroup.com/