The Proper Way to Set Up an Amp and Microphone

Whether it is for karaoke, beatboxing or just messing around, we all need to know how to setup an amplifier and microphone. Before I jump into the guide, I want to explain some terminology and names first.

The cable that connects from the microphone to the amp/speaker is called the XLR Cable
Sometimes the XLR cable will need to be a XLR to 1/4" so it can plug into the amp/speaker. So make sure your amp/speaker has a XLR input, otherwise you need the XLR to 1/4" cable.

The power cable which powers the amp/speaker is generally the mainstream cable used to power computers as well. There is no formal name for this other then "Standard Power Cable"

How to correctly power on and hook up your amp/speaker

1.) Make sure the volume is set to zero

2.) Make sure the microphone is off (if it has an on/off switch)

3.) Before plugging in the microphone's XLR cable, plug in the power cable and check to see if the amp/speaker works.

4.) Once determined that the amp/speaker works, plug the XLR cable into the amp/speaker (Make sure it isn't plugged into the microphone yet)

5.) Now plug the other end of the XLR cable into the microphone and turn the amp on. (Again make sure the volume is at zero)

6.) Slowly work the volume up until you can hear yourself at a comfortable sound level

That is all you need to know! This is the mainstream method of setting up an amp/speaker with a microphone!

Some tips to keep in mind:

- Don't put the microphone close to the amp/speaker. The magnetic polarity will cause feedback, which is unpleasant and can damage the amp/speaker.
- Don't tap the microphone to test if it is working. This damages the microphone over time.