Comments on: How to Use a Microphone When Performing

on 11/2/2007 The tip and warning in this article doesn't make any sense and is simply wrong. Firstly, there are way too many variables to simply say that adjusting you mic and amplifier settings you will be heard. Obviously the writer of this article is not well versed in live sound engineering, sound system setup, effective mic technique, or sound mixing.
Secondly, to discount proper enunciation is simply wrong. Intelligibility is ALWAYS a concern, no matter how "powerful your speakers are". I am sorry to say that the advice given in this article simply does not measure up.

on 11/22/2005 Also try the following:

- With lower notes in your range, pull the mic closer to your mouth.

- Whether it's lower or higher notes, you'll get to a point in your range where your notes are softer sounding (not as loud as the rest of notes sung in your vocal range). At that point, pull the mic closer to your mouth.

- Always think ahead in your song while singing and remember the notes coming up. Prepare for them.

- Know your voice. By saying that, I mean know how loud you sing hitting certain notes as well as how soft other notes sound. Knowing this will give you the tools you need for better mic control.

- Listen to the music itself. Pay attention to the music's volume level, and the changing volumes within the song. A song may start off quiet and work its way to a climax which is louder or harder sounding. Match your voice level to the song's volume level by pulling away the mic or bringing the mic closer to your mouth.

- Pulling AWAY the mic turns down the volume of your voice.

- Pulling IN the mic turns up the volume of your voice (like turning up or down a volume button on your stereo).

- Never put your lips on the mic. It's simply unsafe and muffles the lyrics sung to the point where nobody can make out the words.

- Do not cup or curl your hand around the top of the mic. This can cause feedback and it doesn't do the sound of your voice justice. If cupping the mic is most comfortable for you, you can cup your hand around the bottom of it. This will not interfere with the quality of your voice.

- Remember, it's always easier to handle the mic off the stand and control the volume of your voice.

- If using the mic on a stand, know when to step up closer or away from it to adjust the volume of your voice. Don't just stand in one spot. Keep one foot more ahead than the other so that you can lean closer or further away when need be to the mic on the stand.

on 11/22/2005 Don't sing really high or loud notes too close to the mike. When you know a high or loud note is coming, pull the mike away from your mouth slightly. It will produce a much cleaner note.

on 11/22/2005 Always look at the size of the venue so that you will know how to adjust your sound system by how the acoustics carry. And in a stadium, you should always pronounce everything you say very well.