Ever wondered what microphones, preamps, and gear the pros use to capture those immersive live worship recordings you hear on streaming platforms ?

Today, I'm pulling back the curtain completely.

I'm sharing a behind-the-scenes walkthrough of my actual recording setup for a Cedar Sessions worship event - showing you everything from drum mic selection to vocal chain choices to room mic placement.

👉 CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FULL WALKTHROUGH

Why This Video Is Different

This isn't just another "here's what I'd recommend" tutorial.

This is actual footage shot during a live worship recording session at a church in Southern Illinois. You'll see the real cables, the real mess, the real decisions, and the real results.

I originally filmed this about 5 years ago with the intention of starting my YouTube channel. But imposter syndrome got the better of me, and I never published it...until now.

What You'll Discover In The Video

When you watch the walkthrough, you'll see:

• The exact microphones I chose for each instrument (including a surprising vocal mic I used on hi-hat that creates amazing brightness)

• My vocal mic selection strategy for different vocalists (I used different mics for different singers - KSM9, DPA Deacto, Earthworks SR40V, and more)

• The room mic secret that captures both audience response AND spacious room tone using two completely different approaches

• My full recording chain with 34 preamps including 500 series pres, Apollos, and specialized equipment for different sources

• The backup recording strategy that saved sessions when unexpected problems arose

Around the 5:55 mark, I take you to the "control room" (actually just a makeshift space in the back) where you'll see the heart of the recording rig and learn exactly which preamp I used for each vocal and instrument.

SEE THE FULL RECORDING RIG HERE

I'm Giving Away Free Multitracks

As a thank you for watching, I'm giving away the complete multitracks for TWO songs from this session absolutely free.

These aren't demo tracks or simplified versions - they're the actual multitrack recordings with:

• Every drum mic
• All instruments
• Each individual vocal
• Room mics

You can use these to:

• Practice your mixing skills
• Create portfolio examples for church clients
• Learn how to process live worship recordings

The only thing I ask is that you don't publicly release your mixes since these songs are already officially released. But you're free to use them for practice and to show potential clients your skills.

GET THE FREE MULTITRACKS HERE

My Setup Has Changed (And Why That Matters)

One of the most interesting parts of sharing this older footage is showing how my approach has evolved.

In the video, you'll see I had a pretty elaborate setup with multiple interfaces and preamps. Since then, I've actually simplified my approach, using a console for multitrack recording instead of the complex rig shown in the video.

I explain why in the video - and the reason might surprise you. It's a valuable lesson about when more gear isn't necessarily better.

Watch The Actual Worship Moment

At the end of the video, I included a clip of one of the worship moments we captured with this setup. You'll hear exactly how all these technical decisions translated into the final sound.

It's a powerful reminder that all this gear talk serves one purpose - capturing authentic worship moments that connect people with God.

EXPERIENCE THE FINAL RESULT HERE

One Last Thing...

Oh, and I need your opinion on something personal. My wife asked me to grow a mustache, and I need your honest feedback. Yay or nay on the new look? Let me know in the video comments!

WATCH THE FULL WALKTHROUGH NOW

Mixing for the Kingdom, Lucas

P.S. This is just one of many production tutorials I share each week. If you find this helpful, make sure to subscribe to my channel for more worship recording and mixing tips!