The Effect of Stage Lights on Concert Sound Quality

Is the use of stage lights linked to the deterioration of sound quality at concerts? Not necessarily. However, as our case study will show, stage lights can indeed fool our senses and enhance the overall concert experience, making audio quality seem better.

My Journey as a Sound Engineer

Back in the late 1970s, I was working as a commercial radio DJ and engineer. My passion for music and sound led me to play rock and roll in a basement, where I often built my own PA equipment. As a resident of a college town, I frequently found myself working as the local sound guy in clubs, providing live music with limited, sometimes rudimentary, equipment.

A Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience

One particular Friday, I set up my system in a former car dealership club near the railroad yard. The showroom had been converted into a space with a small stage, and the venue was filled with college students enjoying cheap beer. I was tasked with setting up the sound system for what would become a memorable night.

With a simple approach, I adjusted the sound by recording a cassette tape and playing it back. The band then ran a sound check, and their amps were plenty loud. As I took a break for dinner, I found myself immersed in the content of industry magazines. One article caught my eye, suggesting that human bodies can absorb sound and affect the acoustic properties of a venue.

The Awakening Sensation

When the band took the stage for their first set, I was mesmerized by how much better the music sounded. Despite only a few bodies on the dance floor, I couldn't believe the difference. I decided to enjoy the gig and anticipated that more people would join later.

Just as the second set was about to begin, I noticed something peculiar. The club owner had hired a light guy who had set up lights on stage. The setup was straightforward, with four instruments and a simple light mixer. At a time when bands might use colored bulbs in coffee cans, this light guy brought theater experience and was working subtly, enhancing the concert experience without my immediate awareness.

Reflections and Insights

This incident taught me a valuable lesson. From a scientific standpoint, stage lights have no objective or quantifiable impact on sound quality. Physics and acoustics remain the constant factors. However, in the realm of artistic performance, stage lights can create a synergy that enhances the overall experience. This can lead the audience to perceive the band as playing better, not just because of the area lighting, but also due to the ambiance and energy it brings.

Concluding Thoughts

The impact of stage lights on concert sound quality is more subtle and subjective than concrete measurements. While physics alone dictates sound quality, stage lights play a crucial role in the overall concert experience. They enhance the atmosphere, engaging the audience emotionally and creating a more memorable performance. So, if you ever suspect that stage lights are improving the sound quality, you might be right, albeit for reasons beyond simple acoustics.