Microphone Techniques

The most common mistake is holding the microphone too close or too far from your mouth. This results in your singing sounding muffled and distorted, too distant or no vocal sound at all. With a little practice this is easy to rectify and should become a part of your rehearsal routine.

Set your volume controls so that the sound track or musical instrument is slightly lower than your singing.

To avoid distortion, ensure the mic is held no closer than 2 to 3 inches from your mouth during normal singing. You will have to experiment a little as the distance is dependent on the individual’s natural power and ability to project. Gradually move the microphone away as you continue to sing and listen to the effect - at what point does the vocal sound start to fade? - That is your furthest point to remember. The optimum distance for clarity is between the shortest and furthest points.

There are times when you will be using more volume, hitting higher or lower notes or almost whispering. Practice using different distances and positions to see how using the mic creates different effects.

Avoid moving the microphone closer to your mouth when aiming for high or more powerful notes and practice using the microphone to enhance or lessen certain effects until it becomes second nature. When you are singing higher or dynamic notes you need to either drop the mic or move it to either side of your face several inches to avoid over-powering the diaphragm of the microphone or sending the sound man into a frenzy trying to control your volume. In the near future we will have a class on this very thing.