What is the best live stream mix strategy for churches?

Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront

Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront

Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront

Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN

Podcast Episode Notes: Choosing Church Broadcast Audio Systems Episode Overview

Discussion about switching from Logic Pro to other broadcast audio solutions including Waves LV1, Studio One, and Pro Tools for church live streaming applications.

Key Participants

Jake Gosselin - Host/Audio Expert
Matt Woltjer - Audio Engineer/Consultant

Main Topics Covered Current Industry Setup

Most professionals using matrix mix from LV1 systems for broadcast
Common approach: dedicated matrix send from main front-of-house mix
Requires ongoing attention to maintain quality

Logic Pro Issues Identified

Primary Problem: Time Drift

Logic Pro gradually falls behind video stream
Can drift up to 2+ seconds behind actual video
Creates major sync issues for live streaming
Problem appears unique to Logic Pro

Design Limitations

Logic Pro optimized for studio recording, not live applications
Apple's development priorities focus on studio use
Pricing model ($200 for 18+ years) indicates different revenue focus

Alternative DAW Options

Ableton Live & Pro Tools

No reported time drift issues
Better suited for live applications
More reliable for broadcast mixing

Waves LV1 System

Purpose-built for live mixing
Hardware controller integration
Superior plugin processing
Most expensive but most reliable option

System Integration Challenges

Hardware Requirements

Allen & Heath SQ: Requires Waves interface cards
Dante Systems: Need Dante Wave Sound Bridge (~$3,000)
LV1 Options:
- Classic (most expensive, full features)
- One C Compact (budget option, limited processing)
- Proton Duo (insufficient for full mix)

Critical Decision Factors

Budget Considerations

LV1 systems: $10,000+ for complete setup
Additional hardware costs often overlooked
Integration complexity increases total cost

Staffing Reality Check

Many churches: 1-2 experienced engineers, 2-3 learning operators
Common mistake: Experienced on FOH, beginners on broadcast
Results in expensive equipment producing poor mixes

Fundamental Issues First

Acoustic treatment more impactful than equipment upgrades
Proper PA tuning essential before broadcast considerations
Secondary console improves mix quality only 2-5%
Room acoustics can transform entire sound

Professional Recommendations

When to Choose Matrix Mix:

Small to midsize churches
Limited experienced staff
Budget constraints
Desire for consistency and reliability

When to Consider LV1:

Dedicated broadcast mixing staff
Sufficient budget for complete system
Acoustics and PA already optimized
Need for advanced plugin processing

Questions to Ask Before Upgrading:

What specific problems are you solving?
Do you have dedicated, experienced broadcast staff?
Are fundamental acoust

Published on 1 month, 1 week ago

Podcast Episode Details

What is the best live stream mix strategy for churches?