The Ultimate ProPresenter Computer Setup for Worship: 10 Essential Components

Running ProPresenter reliably in a church environment requires more than just any computer. As your church grows and your video demands increase, you need a robust system that can handle lyrics, motion backgrounds, sermon slides, confidence monitors, live streaming graphics, and multiple display outputs without breaking down mid-service.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the 10 essential components for building a professional-grade ProPresenter system that scales with your ministry.

Why Computer Graphics Matter in Church

Computer graphics in church environments can be incredibly demanding. You’re not just displaying lyrics anymore – you’re managing motion backgrounds, sending lower thirds to your live stream, running confidence monitors for your band, displaying announcements on lobby screens, and coordinating multiple video destinations throughout your facility.

As churches grow from small to midsize or larger, these demands only increase. That’s why investing in the right system from the start (or upgrading strategically) is crucial for ministry success.

The 10 Essential Components

1. The Foundation: Mac Mini

Why Mac Mini? The amount of power packed into even the base model Mac Mini is incredible and sufficient for most church environments. While you could build a custom gaming PC, Mac consistently proves more reliable with ProPresenter in real-world church applications.

Specifications to Consider:

• Base Model: Sufficient for basic setups with 1-3 screens
• $899 Version: Features 10-core CPU/GPU, additional RAM and storage – ideal for multiple outputs and future-proofing
• M4 Pro Mac Mini: Best for high-demand environments with numerous video outputs

Storage Recommendation: Opt for more than the default 256GB, as graphics machines need space for images, videos, and other media files.

2. Professional Integration: Rack Mount System

The Sonnet Rack Mac Mini is a game-changer for professional installations. This 2U rack mount system can house three Mac Minis and features front-accessible power buttons – no more reaching under desks to power on computers.

Pro Tip: Keep your computers on most of the time. This enables remote access for editing ProPresenter content and system maintenance.

3. Expansion Capabilities: Sonnet Echo Three Expansion Chassis

This expansion chassis unlocks the true potential of your Mac Mini by allowing up to three PCIe cards for additional inputs, outputs, USB ports, networking, and storage options. One Thunderbolt cable connects your Mac Mini to a world of professional connectivity options.

4. Professional I/O: PCIe Cards

Recommended Cards:

• Deck Link Duo Two: Provides direct SDI video outputs from ProPresenter
• Sonnet Allegro USB: Additional USB ports for dongles and peripherals

Why SDI Matters: Instead of dealing with HDMI adapters and dongles, you get clean SDI outputs perfect for long cable runs common in church environments. Your video signals go directly from ProPresenter to your switcher or projector via professional SDI BNC connectors.

5. Scalable Rack Solution: Sonnet Duo Modo

The Duo Modo system allows you to rack mount your expansion chassis alongside your Mac Minis. This configuration is perfect for growing ministries that may eventually need multiple computers for ProPresenter, audio systems, and video switching.

Typical Professional Setup: Three computers (ProPresenter, audio machine, video switching) with two expansion chassis for maximum flexibility.

6. Remote Control: KVM System

A KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) system extends your control capabilities from the equipment rack to your tech booth workstation. The AV Access KVM provides a reliable point-to-point connection between your racked computer and operator position.

7. Operator Display: 24″ LG Monitor

A 1080p monitor is perfectly adequate for ProPresenter operation. Since most KVM systems support 1080p, and the resolution doesn’t impact ProPresenter performance, this provides excellent value without unnecessary expense.

8. Advanced Control: Stream Deck

A Stream Deck adds powerful programmable buttons for ProPresenter functions, video switcher control, and lighting system integration. It’s an invaluable tool for streamlining operator workflow.

9. Reliable Input: Macally Keyboard and Mouse

Key Features:

• Large print, backlit keyboard for easy visibility
• Wired USB connections (no Bluetooth reliability issues)
• Designed for production environments

Why Wired? Avoid potential failure points like dead batteries or Bluetooth connectivity issues during services.

10. Ergonomic Setup: Wein Monitor Stand

The lay-flat monitor stand allows operators to tilt screens down for better sight lines over the monitor to see the congregation and stage activity.

Budget Considerations

Professional System Cost

The complete system ranges from $4,000-$5,000, but remember – you don’t need everything immediately.

Budget-Friendly Starting Point

• Base model M4 Mac Mini
• Sonnet Mac Cuff Mini for desktop mounting
• Use built-in Thunderbolt and USB ports
• Maximum 1-2 displays

When to Upgrade

Consider the professional system when your church has:

• 300-500 person auditorium
• Multiple video destinations
• Growing AV demands
• Need for reliability during services

Why This Investment Matters

ProPresenter isn’t the most reliable software, but with proper computer specifications, mid-service issues become rare. The primary cause of crashes is under-specced computers running out of RAM or processing power during services.

Investing in adequate specifications prevents the distraction and embarrassment of system failures during worship. However, avoid the opposite extreme – a $10,000 over-specced system isn’t good stewardship either.

Getting Started

The beauty of this system is its scalability. Start with what your budget and current needs allow, then expand over time as your ministry grows. The rack-mounted, professional approach ensures you’re building toward a system that will serve your church reliably for years to come.

For detailed specifications and personalized system design, consider working with professionals who understand both the technical requirements and the unique demands of church environments.

Remember: a reliable ProPresenter system isn’t just about technology – it’s about removing barriers to worship and enabling your congregation to focus on what matters most.