One of the biggest reasons church vocals sound bad has nothing to do with the soundboard—it’s how the mic is being held. Here’s what happens when singers or pastors get it wrong: ❌ Hand over the capsule → muffled, muddy, zero clarity. (EQ can’t fix this.) ❌ Mic down by the chest → weak, thin, no presence. You crank gain = feedback city. ❌ Mic swinging side to side → inconsistent volume, every word sounds different. Now here’s the right way: ✅ One to two inches from the mouth (close = strong, clear signal). ✅ Pointed directly at the mouth, not the chin or nose. ✅ Firm but relaxed grip on the handle—never the capsule. ✅ Consistent position (don’t pull away when you sing louder). ⚡ Pro tip: If you’re leading worship and like to move, keep the mic locked in the same spot relative to your mouth. Your sound tech will thank you. 💬 Question for you: In your church, what’s the most common “bad mic habit” you see—cupping the capsule, holding too far, or wandering mic position? — Nate

This past Sunday I was running sound at a church, and after service the pastors pulled me aside to say how much they appreciated my "attitude". Not my mix. Not my gear. My attitude. She said the difference was that I didn’t have “an attitude” when she and the other leaders made suggestions about how things should sound. And let’s be real—this is a super sensitive topic. Most sound guys get butt hurt when they’re told otherwise or when they don’t get glowing feedback. But here’s the truth: - Everybody’s ears are different. - Every church + ministry is different. - Every room has different acoustics. - Not everyone wants it LOUD, and not everyone wants it super quiet. Being a church sound tech isn’t just knobs and faders—it’s people skills.If you don’t know how to work with people, this gig will eat you alive. To truly serve your church, you’ve gotta humble yourself first (James 4:10), and actually listen.And when you get frustrated? Don’t sin (Eph. 4:26-27). Be the difference. Don’t be the grumpy sound guy. Listen to your pastors. Talk with the elders. Communicate with the worship team. You’re not just “running sound.” You’re part of the church body, helping create worship together. Be the fully functional piece that keeps technology and worship flowing side by side—for a better, chill, distraction-free worship experience every Sunday. — Nate