John Melton runs the What's This Knob For? web site and is the FOH Tech at The Lift in Indian Trail, NC.  He wins for best site name!  I wanted to interview John because I think he represents a lot of people who volounteer for the A/V ministry.  I love what he posted on his blog in June of this year..."They have all been very understanding and patient with me, especially when I know that they would like someone with a little more experience than I have in this type of venue. With all that being said that’s why I’m here to learn from others, to get any help I can, to serve Our Savior and be part of the great commission."

John gave a lot of great answers.  Pay attention to what he said for number 2.  I know, for me, it's easy to see everything as if I'm running a business.  Thanks to John for reminding how I should be working.

1. What do you find the hardest part about running sound?  How do you get through it?

Getting the mud out and getting a good blend where every part can be heard.

I look back at the things I did right and review the recordings and work on improving the next week. (Even though my recordings are straight from the board and I mix in a gym.)  And I am trying to learn and understand frequency ranges.

2. What is the one tip you would give someone new to church sound?

Serve with your heart, because sometimes everything else can get in your way.

3. What's your favorite comfort food?

All of it!

4. What could the musicians / worship teams do to make your life easier?

Have a good solid rehearsal and remember that the sound guy is more a member of the band than of the tech team.

5. Everyone has a horror story when it comes to running sound.  What is yours?

Failing to get a mic to work during the invocation time.

6. You are running sound during a service and the main amp goes out.  What do you do?

Trade places with the lighting person and point at them?   Really you should always have a contigency plan with your worship leader to do an unplugged acoustic set.

7. What's the best tip you ever received?

Listen with your ears not your eyes.  Thats why there are so many knobs on a mixing board, there is no set formual you can see to make the sound just right, you have to hear it.