How to Set Dynamic Microphone Levels

You're a beginner in the world of live audio. You've bought a few microphones, but you don't know how to set the levels properly for recording. Here you'll find a step-by-step guide for getting dynamic microphone levels set.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dynamic microphone
• Proper cord for microphone
• Mixing board of some type
• Amplifier (unless mixing board has built in amplifier)
• Speaker system
• Optional:
• Microphone preamp

1. First, set up your sound system and get your microphone connected. You'll need to follow the manufacturers instructions in order to get your system set-up properly, since every system is different. Make sure that you have the proper cables to connect the speakers to the system and to connect the microphone to the mixer. Most dynamic microphones have an XLR (three-pronged) female connection. The mixing board may take male XLR or male 1/4" connections.

2. Once your system is set-up and powered up, prepare to check your microphone levels. Start with the system volume off, then move the faders up slightly in the mains. Next, see if your mixer has a know at the top of each channel marked "Trim." This will control the incoming volume. Set this at about twelve o'clock.

3. Now move the fader up in the channel you are running the microphone through. Speak in a normal voice. As you move the fader up, you'll hear your voice come through the speakers and gain volume. If this isn't happening, check the trim knob and turn it slightly farther clockwise.

4. As you increase the volume of your microphone, watch the channel and main meters on your mixer. You don't want your levels to hit the red lights too much. This is called clipping, or peak, and should be avoided until you learn more about audio.

5. If you don't have enough volume, adjust the trim and fader levels accordingly. If you still can't get enough volume, you might want to invest in a preamp. A preamp will increase the volume of the microphone before it reaches the mixing board. Dynamic microphones aren't as loud as other types of microphones, such as condenser microphones. A preamp will give you the boost you seek.

Tips & Warnings

• As mentioned before, a good preamp will add volume to your dynamic microphone. Preamps can have many features, one of which is called compression. A compressor limits the dynamic range of a source, causing the peaks and valleys to be closer. This can make a performance through a dynamic microphone have a more consistent sound.
• Different types and brands of dynamic microphones will react differently, needing more or less boost in the trim section. Some of them will accentuate different frequencies, bringing out the bass in a voice or making consonants more clear. Try different types to see what works for you. Popular and reliable dynamic microphones are the Shure 57 and 58.
• When increasing the volume, you may get feedback. This can be caused by excessive volume, proximity to the speakers, or problem frequencies. You'll need to experiment with microphone placing and position to avoid those high, squealing tones.