Making the Transition from Floor Wedges to In-Ear Monitors


Class Outline

Benefits of IEMs vs Floor Monitors

  • Personal control
  • Reduced vocal strain
  • Elimination of feedback
  • Freedom of movement
  • Option to play with a click, cue and trax
  • Optimal volume levels
  • Clean audience mix

Challenges Performers Face with IEMs

  • “I feel cut off from audience.”
  • “I can’t get the mix right.”
  • “Everything is muddy and can’t discern the individual instruments.”
  • “It sounds way too dry.”
  • “My earbuds keep falling out.”
  • “I can’t hear enough bass in my IEMs.
  • “I have to have one ear bud in and the other out.”

Switching to IEMs is a commitment

  • Technical resources
  • Financial commitment
  • A commitment of time to learn for both the worship team and sound techs
  • Positive mindset and attitude

Choosing the Right Earbuds

  • Universal fit vs custom molded
  • What is a driver?
  • How many drivers are enough?

Methods for Setting Up Your IEM System

  • Separate monitor console
  • Personal monitor mixers
  • Mixing from devices (phones, tablets)

Best Practices for a Successful Transition to IEMs

  • Mic everything
  • Set up Audience Mics
  • Mixing tips for the sound tech
    • Set proper input gain
    • Use of high pass filters
  • IEM Listening Environment
    • Immersive Listening
    • Stereo Listening
    • Mono Listening
  • Protect Your Hearing

Moving Your Team to IEMs

  • Set up and configure your IEM system
  • Train your team how to use the gear
  • How To Mix Your IEMs
    • Mix Essentials
    • How to Mix in Stereo
    • How to Mix in Mono
  • Using Virtual Sound Check to learn how to mix

Helpful Links Related to This Class

Video of this Presentation

How to Create A Clear and Present Mix Using Your EQ Tools (Part 1)
How To Create a Clear and Present Mix Using Your EQ Tools (Part 2)
How To Create A Clear and Present Mix Using Your EQ Tools (Part 3)

How To Wear In-Ear Monitors Correctly (video)

Instrument Frequency Range Chart

Resources

QSC House of Worship Audio Training
In this free comprehensive, modular online training course, you’ll learn the basics of audio engineering for houses of worship. We’ll be covering everything from properly rolling a cable and setting up a PA system, to building monitor mixes and running sound for your service. 4 AVIXA credits and QSC Certification upon completion.

Church Sound Training FaceBook Group
Whether you’re a church sound volunteer or a seasoned sound person, the learning never ends. Join the Church Sound Training FaceBook group to sharpen your audio engineering skills.

QSC
At QSC, our role is to empower you with the tools, support, and service to help you confidently create impactful connections and memorable experiences.

Sound Advice (One Minute Audio Lessons YouTube Playlist)

QSC House of Worship Resource Email List
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