Elements of a mixing console
Written by Cives    Tuesday, 10 March 2009 04:35    PDF Print E-mail

Often times called, the mixer, console, or board, the Mixing console is by definition a device that receives and outputs electronic audio signals.  A console can add power to a signal, split a signal, or combine signals.

Inputs:

Insert – Used to send a signal from that channel to a device and also receive a signal back.  (Requires special “insert” cable)

XLR – Often referred to as mic inputs, these are primarily used for mic inputs though it can be used in other ways (Also Called Balanced Input)

Quarter Inch, or Instrument Input -  Used primarily to receive signals from CD players, wireless receivers, (Also called Unbalanced although it can sometimes be balanced)

Direct Out- Used to send a signal from that specific channel to some other device.

Gain – This is a Knob that controls the preamp.  The preamp adds power to an incoming signal.  The signal from a mic is very weak requiring a boost
from the preamp.  Other signals such as CD players and rack units have stronger signal that require very little if any boosting.

How to Set the GAIN - You will notice a button next to the specific fader labeled “PFL” or “Solo” (Every fader has one).  When pressed in, the strength of the signal coming into that specific channel is displayed on the Meter.  The goal is to adjust the Gain knob to a position where the strongest parts of the signal register at zero.  Once this is adjusted correctly, you have very little chance of distortion and a good signal to noise ratio.

Roll off Switch - There is often a button that rolls off the lower end of the spectrum to remove low transients that come from mic bumps or very strong "p"s

Auxilary- Performs extra routing functions per channel.  Used often to send a discreet monitor mix or to an effects processor

Pan - Moves the signal from left to right in the stereo mix

Fader - Basically a volume control.  The numbers on the side are typically decibal markings

Mute - It does what it says.  It mutes the channel

Assign buttons - Typically etermines whether the channel is assigned to the main mix, or the sub outs.

Larger consoles tend to be a bit more complex due to their increased routing abilities but essentially, the goal of any mixer is to give maximum routing flexibility.  Remember this whenever you feel overwhelmed by the size of the mixing console.


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Comments  

 
0 #1 venn 2009-12-08 17:14 u shud put pictures of what
u r discussing to be easily understood
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