Room Mics for Live Streaming - EQ and Setting it in the Mix

Introduction

I recently decided to upgrade our live streaming setup by installing dedicated room mics. Previously, we had been using a shotgun mic, which wasn't quite meeting our needs. The goal was to enhance the audio quality of our inner mix and live stream, ensuring a clear and balanced sound.

Finding the Right Balance

One of the key challenges with room mics is finding the perfect balance. The sound needs to be loud enough to make a difference but not so loud that it becomes muddy. This balance is achieved through careful EQ (equalization) adjustments.

EQ Adjustments

In the video, I demonstrate the importance of EQ adjustments. I played a sample so you can hear the difference. With the EQ set up correctly, the room mic captures the ambiance without overpowering the main audio sources.

Listener Feedback

I've noticed that while the mix sounds great in my headphones, it can sound different on various devices like TVs. I'm curious to hear what others think, so I encourage listeners to provide feedback on their experience with different listening devices.

Soloing the Room Mic

To give a clearer picture, I soloed the room mic so you can hear it by itself. I played it with and without EQ to highlight the improvements. When the EQ is off and the low cut is removed, the sound becomes muddy, emphasizing the need for these adjustments.

Importance of Low Cut

Turning off the low cut filter makes the sound significantly muddier. This demonstration shows how crucial it is to keep the low cut on to maintain clarity.

Room Ambiance

The EQ'd room mic provides a nice ambiance, allowing you to hear what's happening in the room while keeping the main audio sources clear. This balance is essential for a good live streaming mix.

Final Adjustments

I've spent the last few weeks fine-tuning the room mic setup. The goal is to find a sweet spot where the mic can stay set, reducing the need for constant adjustments. This stability ensures a consistent and high-quality audio experience for our live streams.

Conclusion

Setting up and adjusting room mics for live streaming requires careful attention to balance and EQ. With the right adjustments, the room mic can add valuable ambiance to the mix without overpowering it. Listener feedback is crucial to ensure the mix sounds good across different devices, and consistent fine-tuning helps maintain the quality of the live stream.