We here at New Town care a lot about your home speakers. We created Seratone because we wanted something on the market that can safely be used with your existing systems. Our processing mitigates the issues associated with blown speakers and broken amps, but it does not eliminate them. I have blown speakers with CD players and iPhones. If used improperly any system can get overloaded and break. That’s why it is important to follow some basic steps that will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of the audio products you own. For more information on how sound can break audio gear see our article: Why Live Microphones Break Consumer Gear.
Start low and leave yourself headroom
One of the main reasons audio gear blows is running it on full blast for hours on end. I get it. I’ve been there. You don’t have to explain to me that loud music is more fun than quiet music. This is why my number one advice for speaker safety is to start low and increase volume slowly. Our ears will get used to whatever volume and ask for more. Regardless of what volume you start with, eventually that song will play (you know the one) and you will turn up the volume. We know this will happen, so plan accordingly and give yourself some headroom to turn up when needed while still staying at a safe level.
Why live microphones raise the stakes
Live microphones add a variable to the equation that can tip the scales into damage territory. This is where Seratone is unique among karaoke devices. We have on-board processing that drastically lowers the chance of damage from live microphones. However, best practices are still recommended to get the best experience.
Treat the mic gently
Some obvious advice first: don’t hit the mic, blow on the mic, or drop the mic. Seratone will prevent damage if these happen accidentally, but relying on it too much can still lead to unwanted issues. At best it sounds bad and at worst will be an expensive mistake.
Find the sweet spot
Ideally you want to be 3 inches away from the microphone. This will ensure minimal proximity effect while maintaining a full, on-mic sound. Proximity effect is when a source gets too close to a microphone and the low end starts to build up. Too far away and you will sound thin and distant. Staying in the sweet spot ensures you sound at your best.