Getting the best performance when using a vocal microphone is not as simple or as straight forward as it seems. Anyone can get some sort of sound from a mic, though consistently good results can be achieved with just a little knowledge and some training. Here are a few basic do's and don’ts to get you started.

Attitude:
Treat the microphone as your friend. Think of it as another tool in helping your performance.

Treat the sound person as your friend. Meet with them before the show. A good sound person will match the mic with your voice and performance style.

Treat the sound system as your friend. Know where the monitors and main loudspeakers are located and how they project. Be conscious of cables and stands. Work with it.

Basics:

Each microphone is unique, just as is every vocalist, however there are some generalities.

A microphone responds to sound as it exists. If you sing out of tune, or slur your speech, don't blame it on the mic. It will not overcome poor singing or speaking abilities.

Almost all vocal microphones have a directional pickup pattern. Inside the “ball” of the hand held type is a small acoustic chamber which gives the mic it's directional characteristic.

Technique:

Don’t “eat” the mic. This is a common fault. People think a vocal mic should be held almost touching the lips. This is not so, most mics will sound muddy or distorted when used this way. (Only a few are designed specifically for this). A good average working distance is about 3 inches away.

If you are blessed with a wide dynamic range (can really belt it out), let the sound person know. They will either put a compressor on your mic or have you pull it away somewhat during the louder parts.

Hold onto it properly, about the middle. Your hand near the ball affects it's directional characteristic, causing it to pickup a wider sound field. Never cover the ball with your hand. This is a sure cause of feedback.

Point it at your mouth. Don't sing over top or into the side of the mic. Remember, it is designed with a certain pickup pattern. Pointing it at the ceiling will not do much for your voice.

Never point a mic directly at any loudspeaker. This is another sure cause of feedback.

Sometimes feedback occurs from sound reflecting off a surface. Quickly moving the microphone to a different angle usually cures it.

Don't play with the microphone or cable. This visually distracts from your performance and is sometimes audible.

Practice using good microphone technique. Then at the show you can focus your performance to the audience.

These suggestions are made with the intention of helping first-time performers feel comfortable using a microphone. Experience, personal style and other preferences will bring about techniques not detailed here.

Copyright © 2005 Anton Niedersteiner. All rights reserved.