Originally Posted by Mark Von Lanken (Post 1848691)

I have skimmed through the replies and you have been given good advice. There is not really just one right way to get audio at the wedding and reception. Some use wireless systems and some use pocket recorders for the vows.

I used wireless systems (Sennheiser) for over 10 years. When making the move to DSLR in 2010 I switched over to using Yamaha C24s, which are now discontinued. A similar unit with lav mic from Giant Squid or others similar lav work great and cost a fraction of Sennheiser G3 systems. With a pocket recorder you never have wireless static or interference and can have 2-3 pocket recorders for the price of one Sennheiser G3.

For several years I have used a Zoom H4n to get a board feed from the DJ or band. I have the 3 audio possibilities (RCA, 1/4 inch and XLR) cables on one end and XLR on the other end. I use an XLR attenuator when the DJ or band gives me a line level feed that is too hot for the H4n.

I tell you this because when I had a really loud band, the signal was still too hot for the attenuator to handle. I use the Hosa ATT488 which does 20, 30, or 40 dB of attenuation. Earlier this year I bought a Tascam DR40 because it can handle line level, which it does wonderfully, without the attenuator. Another benefit of the DR40 is that it can record a backup track at -12dB, so you have a safety track in case the main track is too hot.

In addition to getting a feed from the board or powered speaker, during the reception, I place a Rode M3 on a mic stand in front of the DJ or band speakers. The M3 is built like a tank and you have the option to use an internal 9 volt battery or use phantom power, which the H4n and DR40 can supply.

For reception lighting I use Yongnuo YN600 LED 3200k-5500k lights on light stands. If you feel the YN600 is too big, you can remove the barn doors to make the foot print a little smaller or they also have a YN300 model which does a good job as well. If you have large dance floors the YN600 is brighter and has a wider spread.

Both models offer a 3200k-5500k as well as a 5500k only. I prefer the 3200k-5500k unit so if the reception is being lit with LED lights that are 5500k balanced you you can match it. If the lighting is mixed you can use a mix of the 3200K and 5500k LEDs in the Yongnuo to match the surroundings.

In addition to variable color temperatures the YN600 and YN300 come with wireless remotes to turn the light on or off as well a adjust the brightness. Having a variable color temp light with a dimmer is very beneficial for the wedding reception, but having a wireless remote makes it all that much more usable.

Okay for the price. You can find the Yongnuo lights on ebay or Amazon for about $75 for the YN300 and about $150 for the YN600. All you need to do is add Sony style batteries and a light stand.