In recent years, the ability to host conference calls and virtual services has become essential for churches seeking to engage with their congregations—whether for remote worship, Bible studies, or church meetings. Whether you’re conducting a live-streamed service, hosting virtual Bible studies, or holding church council meetings, the right equipment can ensure that everyone stays connected, whether they’re in the sanctuary or at home.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best equipment for making conference calls for church services. From microphones and cameras to audio systems and conferencing software, we’ll help you choose the best tools for your church’s needs.
Key Considerations for Choosing Conference Call Equipment for Church Services
Before diving into specific products, it’s important to understand the main factors that will influence your decision. Here are some key things to consider when choosing the right equipment for church conference calls:
1. Audio Quality
Good sound quality is essential for conference calls, especially when participants are joining from different locations. You need clear, crisp audio that minimizes background noise and ensures everyone can hear the speaker clearly. Invest in high-quality microphones and speakers.
2. Video Quality
Many church services are conducted virtually, and video conferencing has become a regular feature of many church services. A high-quality camera helps ensure that your online congregation feels more connected, especially for larger events.
3. Ease of Use
Church staff, volunteers, and members may have varying degrees of technical knowledge. Look for equipment that’s easy to set up and use, even for people with minimal technical experience.
4. Scalability
As your church grows, your audio-visual (AV) needs may expand. Make sure the equipment you select is scalable and can handle more participants as your congregation increases or if your events grow in complexity.
5. Integration with Software
The best conference call equipment should integrate seamlessly with your video conferencing software, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet. Compatibility with your church’s live-streaming platform (e.g., YouTube, Facebook Live) is also important.
6. Budget
Conference call equipment can range from budget-friendly options to high-end systems. Consider your budget, but remember that investing in quality equipment will pay off in terms of reliable communication and long-term value.
Best Equipment for Conference Calls for Church Services (2024)
1. Logitech MeetUp Conference Camera
Why It’s Great for Churches:
The Logitech MeetUp is an excellent all-in-one video conferencing camera designed for small to medium-sized meeting rooms. It’s ideal for church services, meetings, or virtual Bible studies, especially when you need both high-quality video and audio in a compact package.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD Camera: Provides crystal-clear video with a 120° field of view, perfect for capturing the entire stage or congregation.
- Built-in Microphone Array: Integrated microphones capture clear audio from all areas of the room.
- Bluetooth Compatibility: Connect wirelessly to phones or other devices for easy audio integration.
- Compatible with Leading Software: Works seamlessly with platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.
- Plug-and-Play Setup: Simple USB connection with no additional drivers needed.
Pricing:
- Around $899 (one-time purchase).
Why Churches Love It:
- Easy to set up and use, perfect for small-to-medium church spaces.
- High-definition video and audio in one device, reducing the need for multiple pieces of equipment.
- Excellent for hybrid services that combine in-person and virtual worship.
Where to Buy:
- Logitech Website
- Amazon
2. Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
Why It’s Great for Churches:
If your church services include podcasts, live streaming, or audio conferencing, the Shure MV7 microphone is an excellent choice. Known for its professional-grade sound quality, it’s perfect for virtual services or church meetings.
Key Features:
- USB and XLR Connectivity: Use it with your computer or connect to an audio interface for higher-end audio setups.
- Adjustable Gain: Get just the right sound quality with manual or automatic gain control.
- Built-in Headphone Monitoring: Hear exactly what the microphone is picking up, helping you control audio quality.
- Supercardioid Pattern: Focuses on sound directly in front of the mic, minimizing room noise and feedback.
Pricing:
- Around $249.
Why Churches Love It:
- Fantastic audio quality for both virtual meetings and live-streaming services.
- Affordable compared to other professional microphones.
- Easy to use for volunteers with little to no technical knowledge.
Where to Buy:
- Shure Website
- Amazon
3. Zoom Rooms System (Complete Setup)
Why It’s Great for Churches:
For churches looking to create a dedicated video conferencing room, the Zoom Rooms System is an excellent solution. It combines hardware and software to deliver a seamless experience for conference calls, allowing your church to easily host virtual events or prayer groups.
Key Features:
- Complete Kit: Includes a camera, microphones, touchscreen controller, and audio systems.
- Simple Interface: Zoom Rooms are known for their user-friendly interfaces, making it easy for your team to manage calls and meetings.
- HD Video and Audio: High-definition video with professional-grade audio equipment that ensures the best quality for conference calls and hybrid services.
- Integration with Zoom Software: Seamlessly integrates with Zoom’s features like chat, screen sharing, and meeting management.
Pricing:
- Zoom Rooms Kit starts at around $1,000 – $2,500 for the complete setup (depending on the features and configuration).
Why Churches Love It:
- All-in-one solution for churches needing an upgraded virtual service or meeting setup.
- Scalable for larger services, with options to add additional cameras and microphones.
- Ease of use for virtual meetings, online Bible studies, and live-streamed services.
Where to Buy:
- Zoom Website
- Amazon
4. Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Why It’s Great for Churches:
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a highly rated cardioid condenser microphone designed for both professional and home use. For churches looking for affordable, yet high-quality microphones for conference calls, live-streaming, or recording sermons, the AT2020 delivers excellent sound at a reasonable price.
Key Features:
- Cardioid Pattern: Picks up sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear.
- Wide Frequency Response: Ideal for capturing vocals and speech with clarity.
- Durability: Built to last with high-quality materials and construction.
- Affordable Price: An excellent choice for churches on a budget.
Pricing:
- Around $99.
Why Churches Love It:
- Clear and professional sound at a budget-friendly price.
- Ideal for solo speakers or small groups—perfect for recording sermons, audio calls, or virtual Bible studies.
- Great for churches that need to upgrade their audio without spending a lot.
Where to Buy:
- Audio-Technica Website
- Amazon
5. Polycom Studio Video Conference System
Why It’s Great for Churches:
If you’re looking for an all-in-one video conferencing system, the Polycom Studio is a great option. Designed for small to medium-sized rooms, this system delivers both high-quality audio and video, making it perfect for virtual services, Bible study groups, and church meetings.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD Camera: Crystal-clear video with 120-degree field of view, ideal for capturing the congregation or stage.
- High-Quality Microphone: Includes integrated microphones with echo cancellation for clear audio.
- AI-Based Features: Auto-framing and speaker tracking technology to keep the focus on the speaker.
- Zoom and Microsoft Teams Integration: Works seamlessly with popular video conferencing software.
Pricing:
- Around $899.
Why Churches Love It:
- Compact and easy to use, yet powerful enough for high-quality virtual meetings.
- AI features like automatic framing make it easier to manage virtual services.
- Affordable price point for a full-featured video conferencing system.
Where to Buy:
- Polycom Website
- Amazon
Conclusion: Best Equipment for Conference Calls for Church Services
The right conference call equipment for your church can drastically improve the quality of your virtual services, meetings, and Bible studies. Here’s a quick rundown of the best options:
- Best All-in-One Conference System: Logitech MeetUp – Great for small to medium-sized rooms and hybrid services with built-in microphones and a wide camera view.
- Best for Audio Quality: Shure MV7 – A professional-grade microphone perfect for live streaming and podcasts.
- Best for Video Conferencing: Zoom Rooms System – The complete system for churches that want to create a dedicated video conference space.
- Best Budget Option: Audio-Technica AT2020 – An affordable and clear-sounding microphone for recording or small conference calls.
- Best for Hybrid Services: Polycom Studio – A powerful video and audio system ideal for large, interactive virtual meetings.
By selecting the right equipment, you can ensure that your church remains connected with members, whether they’re attending in person or virtually. Happy conferencing!