Managing communication in a live production setting can be tricky, especially when it comes to intercom systems. Whether you’re directing a live worship service or coordinating a team across multiple locations, getting your comms right is essential. From handling gain structure to choosing between wireless or wired systems, there are key elements that can make or break the experience for your team.

One of the biggest challenges with intercoms is managing audio levels, especially when different team members have varying headset volumes. Whether you’re using a matrix or party-line system, adjusting the gain on each device is crucial for balanced communication. Just like in audio mixing, you need to ensure all headsets and microphones are at a consistent level. This can make a huge difference in how clearly and effectively your team communicates during live events or services.

Wireless intercoms have come a long way in terms of quality and reliability, but they still have some trade-offs compared to wired systems. While newer wireless products offer improved performance and less interference, they do use compressed audio, which can affect sound quality, particularly for program audio. Wired systems, on the other hand, provide uncompressed audio, which ensures clearer communication without the concerns of compression. That said, wireless systems with modern antenna setups can offer flexibility and mobility that wired systems simply can’t.

No matter which system you choose, it’s important to consider your environment. For example, wireless intercoms that operate in the Wi-Fi band might face interference in large venues or crowded spaces, while newer wireless products that use dedicated frequencies tend to perform much better. When you’re setting up your comms system, think about the size of your team, the space you’re working in, and how many devices you need to manage for seamless communication.