The Church Sound Podcast with Prentiss L. Thompson

In this episode of The Church Sound Podcast, host Prentiss L. Thompson sits down with audio engineer Preston Russ to unpack one of the trickiest elements in live church sound—mixing guitars. From electric to acoustic, guitars can easily dominate or get lost in the mix if not handled with intention. Prentiss and Preston break down practical strategies for shaping guitar tone in a worship setting, balancing the band with the vocalists, and creating a clear, powerful sound that supports—not distracts—the congregation’s worship experience. Along the way, they share real-world stories from ministry settings, tips for working with volunteer teams, and insights on gear, EQ, and stage volume that every church tech team can apply right away. If you’ve ever struggled with muddy guitar tones, clashing frequencies, or keeping your mix worship-focused, this conversation will equip you with tools, wisdom, and encouragement to level up your front-of-house mixing skills. >>>>>Invisible Media Websites<<<<<< https://churchsoundpodcast.com/ [https://churchsoundpodcast.com/] http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/ [http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/] MERCH https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/ [https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/] Social Media https://www.instagram.com/churchaudiovideosolutions/ [https://www.instagram.com/churchaudiovideosolutions/] https://www.facebook.com/thechurchsoundpodcast [https://www.facebook.com/thechurchsoundpodcast] Be Invisible Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1]

As a content creator, your voice is your main instrument—and the microphone you choose can make or break how your audience receives your message. Not all microphones are created equal, and what works for one creator may not be the best fit for another. In this discussion, we’re exploring microphone comparisons specifically designed for content creators, podcasters, streamers, and online instructors. First, let’s talk about USB vs. XLR microphones. USB microphones, like the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica ATR2100x, are plug-and-play options—perfect for beginners who want simplicity. They connect directly to your computer and require no external gear. XLR microphones, like the Shure SM7B or Rode Procaster, offer professional sound quality but need an audio interface or mixer. This setup is more complex but provides far greater flexibility and control. Next, consider the differences between dynamic and condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones, such as the Shure SM58, are durable and handle untreated rooms well, rejecting background noise effectively. Condenser mics, like the Rode NT1-A, are more sensitive and deliver a rich, detailed sound—great for controlled studio spaces but not always ideal for noisy environments. Finally, let’s address budget vs. investment gear. A solid entry-level mic can cost under $100 and still deliver great audio for podcasts or livestreams. However, if you’re looking to elevate your sound to a professional level and stand out from the competition, investing in higher-end gear can be a game-changer. In short, the best microphone for you depends on your content style, recording environment, and budget. The goal is simple: clear, consistent, and engaging sound that keeps your audience coming back. >>>>>Invisible Media Websites<<<<<< https://churchsoundpodcast.com/ [https://churchsoundpodcast.com/] http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/ [http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/] MERCH https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/ [https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/] Social Media https://www.instagram.com/churchaudiovideosolutions/ [https://www.instagram.com/churchaudiovideosolutions/] https://www.facebook.com/thechurchsoundpodcast [https://www.facebook.com/thechurchsoundpodcast] Be Invisible Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1]

Serving in the media ministry is more than pushing buttons—it’s about stewardship, focus, and creating a space where people can encounter God without distraction. But let’s be real: too often, media teams get caught scrolling, texting, or checking social feeds during service. The result? Missed cues, audio mistakes, awkward camera shots, and ultimately, a break in the flow of worship. In this episode, host Prentiss L. Thompson gets real about why putting down the phone matters when you’re serving. He unpacks: * The discipline of focus and why media ministry is spiritual work, not just technical work. * How small distractions behind the booth can create big distractions in the sanctuary. * Practical ways to set boundaries with phones and still handle emergencies responsibly. Prentiss also shares a true story of a Sunday service where one text message turned into a chain reaction of mistakes—and how a culture shift in the media team restored excellence and accountability. If you’re on the soundboard, live stream, ProPresenter, or camera team—this one’s for you. Serving with excellence means being fully present, fully engaged, and fully committed to the call on your ministry. 🎧 Listen, share with your team, and remember: worship deserves your full attention. If you would like to support the show, we would appreciate it. Thank You PAYPAL - VENMO  https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG] http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/ [http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/] Merch https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/ [https://the-church-sound-podcast-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/csp-classic-tee-shirt?_ga=2.29979903.1917646028.1672873696-207061430.1672087379&fbclid=IwAR3bAch7N3JBxAWVA5I4_GXCLbnpukLhXezyd7PrFNdq4LJKPVrYFezaagE]  The Church Sound Podcast www.churchsoundpodcast.com  [http://www.churchsoundpodcast.com/] Apple Podcast Link [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-church-sound-podcast/id1508894798] Spotify Link [https://open.spotify.com/show/05kNQFal0BGGcTrP68Lu33] iHeart Podcast Link [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-church-sound-podcast-62779513/] Be Invisible Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1]

What separates a good worship moment from a powerful, Spirit-led experience? In this impactful episode of The Church Sound Podcast, host and audio veteran Prentiss L. Thompson shares the Top 3 Tips every praise and worship singer should know to serve more effectively—from the stage to the sound booth. Drawing from years of working behind the board and collaborating with worship teams across denominations and styles, Prentiss reveals the often-overlooked habits that build trust with your audio team, enhance vocal presence, and eliminate the friction that can derail an otherwise powerful worship experience. In this episode, you'll learn: * Why microphone discipline isn't just about volume—it's about intention * The importance of rehearsal etiquette and respecting soundcheck * How listening is the most underrated part of singing in a worship team But it doesn’t stop there. Prentiss shares a personal story of a real-life Sunday that went sideways—because a singer didn’t follow one of these tips—and how the situation was resolved with humility, communication, and a whole lot of grace. It's a reminder that excellence in worship isn’t just about hitting the right note—it’s about serving with a heart that’s teachable and in tune with the entire ministry. Whether you're a seasoned worship leader, background vocalist, or new to the platform, this episode will equip you to be a stronger musical and spiritual contributor to your team. 🎧 Press play, share with your team, and let’s grow together—on and off the mic. If you would like to support the show, we would appreciate it. Thank You PAYPAL - VENMO  https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG] http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/ [http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/] Merch https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/ [https://the-church-sound-podcast-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/csp-classic-tee-shirt?_ga=2.29979903.1917646028.1672873696-207061430.1672087379&fbclid=IwAR3bAch7N3JBxAWVA5I4_GXCLbnpukLhXezyd7PrFNdq4LJKPVrYFezaagE]  The Church Sound Podcast www.churchsoundpodcast.com  [http://www.churchsoundpodcast.com/] Apple Podcast Link [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-church-sound-podcast/id1508894798] Spotify Link [https://open.spotify.com/show/05kNQFal0BGGcTrP68Lu33] iHeart Podcast Link [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-church-sound-podcast-62779513/] Be Invisible Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1]

In this focused Midweek Service edition of The Church Sound Podcast, host Prentiss L. Thompson shares a heartfelt message to pastors and ministry leaders—three essential tips from the perspective of an experienced audio engineer who’s spent years behind the board, in the booth, and in the trenches of Sunday and midweek worship services. Too often, there's a disconnect between leadership and the tech team—one rooted not in intention, but in communication, expectations, and understanding. When pastors and audio teams aren’t aligned, it can cause unnecessary stress, missteps in execution, and ultimately, distractions that pull focus from worship and the Word. Prentiss breaks down: * Why collaboration begins before soundcheck * How to approach production with shared purpose, not pressure * And the unspoken ways that trust, clarity, and preparation can enhance the spiritual atmosphere of your service He also shares real-world examples from ministries he’s served, giving context that’s both insightful and actionable. Whether you're a lead pastor, media director, or volunteer sound engineer, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how unity in production starts with intentional leadership. Tune in, take notes, and pass it on—because excellence in worship doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a team effort, and it begins with understanding. If you would like to support the show, we would appreciate it. Thank You PAYPAL - VENMO  https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/6J7MTKPZNMLRG] http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/ [http://www.invisiblemediaconsulting.com/] Merch https://merch-dogs.creator-spring.com/ [https://the-church-sound-podcast-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/csp-classic-tee-shirt?_ga=2.29979903.1917646028.1672873696-207061430.1672087379&fbclid=IwAR3bAch7N3JBxAWVA5I4_GXCLbnpukLhXezyd7PrFNdq4LJKPVrYFezaagE]  The Church Sound Podcast www.churchsoundpodcast.com  [http://www.churchsoundpodcast.com/] Apple Podcast Link [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-church-sound-podcast/id1508894798] Spotify Link [https://open.spotify.com/show/05kNQFal0BGGcTrP68Lu33] iHeart Podcast Link [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-church-sound-podcast-62779513/] Be Invisible Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HDLCQJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=be+invisible+prentiss+thompson&qid=1632861976&s=books&sr=1-1]