Do Musicians Need to Mic Their Amps on Stage for Professional Performances?
The choice of whether to mic one's amp on stage is a common debate among musicians, particularly for those performing in a band. While some venues and setups require miking, others allow for a more traditional, un-miked approach. This article explores the practical and professional considerations of mic'ing an amp and the benefits of using a front of house (FOH) sound system.
The Role of Front of House (FOH) Sound Systems and Monitor Mixers
Unless the venue is very small or primarily utilizes a vocal PA, most professional bands opt for an FOH front of house sound system. These systems often come with multiple microphones to capture the sound from various instruments, including amps, drums, and percussion. In this setup, an amplifier becomes a monitor for the individual musician, allowing them to clearly hear their own performance mixed with the sound of the band.
The transition to a FOH system can be smoother for bands that play in larger venues, as these systems are designed to handle the complexity and intensity of a live performance. However, the process can be arduous, as setting up and tearing down the sound equipment takes time and technical knowledge. This is why many bars and nightclubs often provide their own FOH sound systems.
For smaller clubs where “real” amps and drums are required, the situation looks different. These venues often cater to hobbyists who enjoy hauling out their personal setups and performing for extended periods. While the sound can sometimes be out of balance, this is often considered part of the charm, a nod to the “old school” era of live music performance. This approach allows for a more personalized and raw sound, but it may not be ideal for a polished, professional performance.
The Decision to Mic or Not
The decision to mic an amplifier depends largely on the context of the performance. In smaller club settings, where the band is often made up of hobbyists, there is little need to mic the amps, and the focus remains on the live experience. However, in larger venues, the choice to mic your amp can have several significant advantages and drawbacks.
Advantages of Mic'ing Your Amp
Consistency: Mic'ing ensures that the sound heard by the sound engineer and on stage is the same, providing a more consistent mix. Professionalism: A well-miced amp can enhance the overall sound quality, making the performance more professional and polished. Audio Balance: The use of mics allows for better audio balancing, ensuring that each instrument and vocal is heard clearly and appropriately mixed.One aspect of mic'ing that can be particularly advantageous is the use of talkback microphones. These can be used to communicate with the sound engineer and band members during the performance, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding audio levels and balance.
Challenges and Considerations
There are also challenges to consider when deciding to mic your amp. For musicians who are not used to this setup, the transition can be difficult. Amplifiers that are not miced may require significant adjustment on stage, especially if the sound engineer needs to balance the mix for the FOH system. This can lead to arguments and misunderstandings, as some may not accept changes to their sound level or balance.
Personal experience from playing with two young prodigies illustrates this point. One of the musicians was willing to accept advice and adapt to the new setup, while the other was resistant and wanted to maintain their traditional playing style. These situations can lead to learning experiences for all parties involved, but the bottom line is that musicians must listen to feedback and understand the importance of a well-balanced mix for a professional performance.
Conclusion
The decision to mic your amp on stage is not a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on the venue, the band's composition, and the desired sound. For professional and larger venues, mic'ing your amp can lead to a more balanced and polished sound. However, for smaller clubs and bands that value a raw, unfiltered performance, the traditional un-miked approach may be the way to go. Whatever choice you make, the key is to communicate effectively with your bandmates and sound engineer to ensure the best possible performance.