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Hypercardioid – Narrower pickup than supercardioid, 105 degrees, more rear pickup than supercardioid.

3 For information in greater detail, see David Miles Huber and Robert E. Runstein, Modern Recording Techniques, 5th ed., (Boston: Focal Press, 2001). Also refer to website, www.focalpress.com.

Microphone Placement

The following guidelines are helpful in placing microphones appropriately:

1)Should be placed behind the main speakers — the farther the better;

2)Should generally be turned away from the monitors;

3)Should be accessible to the participants;

4)Soloists using a dynamic microphone should hold it very close to allow the sound operator to appropriately adjust the volume, but when using a condenser microphone (pulpit), the distance is not so critical;

5)Ensembles should be miked from a distance to allow for mixing of sounds;

6)Choirs should be miked with condenser microphones appropriately spaced depending on number and height;

7)When the congregation is miked, it is best done with condenser microphones appropriately spaced and tall enough to pick up a large group sound.

Communicating with Sound Operators

Sound operators should be notified about special sound needs in advance of the worship service. If microphones are necessary for soloists, ensembles, or for other specific groups or people, this should always be rehearsed with the sound operator. The sound operator should have the order of the service, with appropriate notations, and he/she should always arrive early to have sound equipment set up prior to the rehearsal. The sound operator should verify all details and should have the ability to adapt when unexpected situations arise. Many ministers of music provide sound operators with a grid sheet that details all sound needs for the service.

Qualities of a Good Sound Operator

A good sound operator is more than someone who can turn on the system and set up the equipment. A good sound operator can compensate for any differences in sound in the rest of the room from where he/she is sitting, is aware of sound color from person to person and within different people (announcement voice and prayer voice), anticipates aspects of the service, watches for non-verbal cues, turns microphones off when they will be moved, adjusts volumes of instruments for different parts of the service, and may do many other things. A masterful sound operator has a musical ear and understands the subtleties that are implied in different types and styles of music.

Training for Sound Operators

Sound operators should have adequate opportunity for training. When a new system is installed, training should be part of the cost of the system. Otherwise, occasional training opportunities should provide refresher courses for veterans and initial training for rookies. Having a rookie mentored by a veteran is an excellent system of training.

Lighting

Light has a powerful effect on our moods, feelings, and emotions. Psychologists have long recognized the effect of light in enhancing moods and aiding in the recovery of depression and grief. Strong light encourages positive feelings, activity, and an increase in energy, whereas dimmer lighting encourages quietness, contemplation, and lethargy; therefore, light's potential effect on worship is obvious. It can be used effectively for emphasis, to provide focus or lack of focus, and to lead the eye from place to place within the worship space.

There are four different types of lighting in a Sanctuary: natural, ambient, accent, and dramatic. Each of these is discussed below.

Natural Lighting

Natural lighting comes from windows and doors. Although natural lighting can easily hinder situations where light must be strongly controlled, it is usually encouraged and desired in worship spaces. The effect of open windows, stained glass, or colored glass can truly enhance worship. Furthermore, natural light can connect us with the outdoors and nature.