A mixing console is a piece of equipment used to mix audio signals. It has multiple inputs (mic, guitar, etc.) and multiple outputs (speakers, headphones, etc.). It allows you to control the gain, EQ, and other parameters of multiple audio sources simultaneously.
Mixing console is a mixing board or mixer for audio. It’s used to mix multiple audio signals together. As a musician, it’s important to understand how a mixing console works so you can make the most of your sound.
In this guide, I’ll explain the basics of mixing consoles so you can get the most out of your sound.
In this post we'll cover:
- 1 What are Inserts?
- 2 Connecting Your Speakers to Your Mixer
- 3 What are Direct Outs?
- 4 Plugging In Audio Sources
- 5 What is Phantom Power?
- 6 Mixing Consoles: What’s the Difference?
- 7 What is a Mixing Console?
- 8 Understanding Faders
- 9 Everything You Need to Know About Mixing Consoles
- 10 What is a Mixing Console?
- 11 Differences
- 12 Conclusion
What are Inserts?
Mixers are like the brain of a recording studio, and they come with all sorts of knobs and jacks. One of those jacks are called Inserts, and they can be a real life-saver when you’re trying to get the perfect sound.
What Do Inserts Do?
Inserts are like little portals that let you add an outboard processor to your channel strip. It’s like having a secret door that lets you sneak in a compressor or other processor without having to rewire the whole thing. All you need is a ¼” insert cable and you’re good to go.
How to Use Inserts
Using inserts is easy-peasy:
- Plug one end of the insert cable into the mixer’s insert jack.
- Plug the other end into your outboard processor.
- Turn the knobs and adjust the settings until you get the sound you want.
- Enjoy your sweet, sweet sound!
Connecting Your Speakers to Your Mixer
What You Need
To get your sound system up and running, you’ll need a few things:
- A mixer
- Main speakers
- Powered stage monitors
- TRS to XLR adapter
- Long XLR cable
How to Connect
Getting your speakers connected to your mixer is a breeze! Here’s what you need to do:
- Connect the left and right outputs of the mixer to the inputs of the main amplifier. This is controlled by the master fader, usually found in the bottom right-hand corner of the mixer.
- Use the auxiliary outputs to send audio to the powered stage monitors. Use a TRS to XLR adapter and a long XLR cable to connect directly to the powered stage monitor. The level of each AUX output is controlled by the AUX master knob.
And that’s it! You’re all set to start rocking out with your sound system.
What are Direct Outs?
What are they good for?
Have you ever wanted to record something without it being affected by the mixer? Well, now you can! Direct Outs are like a clean copy of each source that you can send out of the mixer. This means that any adjustments you make on the mixer won’t affect the recording.
How to use Direct Outs
Using Direct Outs is easy! Here’s what you need to do:
- Connect your recording device to the Direct Outs
- Set up the levels for each source
- Start recording!
And there you have it! You can now record without worrying about the mixer messing up your sound.
Plugging In Audio Sources
Mono Mic/Line Inputs
This mixer has 10 channels that can accept either line level or microphone level signals. So if you want to get your vocals, guitar, and drum sequencer all hooked up, you can do it with ease!
- Plug a dynamic microphone for vocals into Channel 1 with an XLR cable.
- Plug a condenser microphone for guitar into Channel 2.
- Plug a line level device (such as a drum sequencer) into Channel 3 using a ¼” TRS or TS cable.
Stereo Line Inputs
If you want to apply the same processing to a pair of signals, such as the left and right channel of background music, you can use one of the four stereo line input channels.
- Plug your smartphone into one of these stereo channels with a 3.5mm to Dual ¼” TS adapter.
- Connect your laptop to another one of these stereo channels with a USB cable.
- Hook up your CD player to the last one of these stereo channels with an RCA cable.
- And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even plug in your turntable with an RCA to ¼” TS adapter.
What is Phantom Power?
What is it?
Phantom power is a mysterious force that some microphones need to function properly. It’s like a magical power source that helps the mic do its job.
Where Do I Find It?
You’ll find phantom power at the top of each channel strip on your mixer. It’s usually in the form of a switch, so you can easily turn it on and off.
Do I Need It?
It depends on the type of microphone you’re using. Dynamic mics don’t need it, but condenser mics do. So if you’re using a condenser mic, you’ll need to flip the switch to get the power flowing.
On some mixers, there’s a single switch on the back that controls phantom power for all the channels. So if you’re using a bunch of condenser mics, you can just flip that switch and you’re good to go.
Mixing Consoles: What’s the Difference?
Analog Mixing Console
Analog mixing consoles are the OG of audio equipment. Before digital mixing consoles came along, analog was the only way to go. They’re great for PA systems, where analog cables are the norm.
Digital Mixing Console
Digital mix consoles are the new kids on the block. They can handle both analog and digital audio input signals, like optical cable signals and word clock signals. You’ll find them in big recording studios, as they have a lot of extra features that make them worth the extra money.
Benefits of digital mixing consoles include:
- Easily control all effects, sends, returns, busses, etc. with the display panel
- Lightweight and compact
- Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to manage
Mixing Console vs. Audio Interface
So why do big studios use digital mix consoles when you can set up a small studio with just an audio interface and a computer? Here are some of the advantages of mixing consoles over audio interfaces:
- Makes your studio look more professional
- Adds that analog feel to your audio
- All the controls are right at your fingertips
- Physical faders let you precisely balance your project
So if you’re looking to take your studio to the next level, a mixing console might be just the thing you need!
What is a Mixing Console?
What is a Mixing Console?
A mixing console (best ones reviewed here) is an electronic device that takes multiple sound inputs, like mics, instruments, and pre-recorded music, and combines them together to create one output. It allows you to adjust the volume, tone, and dynamics of the sound signals and then broadcast, amplify, or record the output. Mixing consoles are used in recording studios, PA systems, broadcasting, television, sound reinforcement systems, and post-production for movies.
Types of Mixing Consoles
Mixing consoles come in two types: analog and digital. Analog mixing consoles only accept analog inputs, while digital mixing consoles accept both analog and digital inputs.
Features of a Mixing Console
A typical mixing console has several components that work together to create the output sound. These components include:
- Channel Strips: These include faders, panpots, mute and solo switches, inputs, inserts, aux sends, EQ, and other features. They control the level, panning, and dynamics of each input signal.
- Inputs: These are the sockets where you plug in your instruments, mics, and other devices. They are usually 1/4 phono jack for line signals and XLR jacks for microphones.
- Inserts: These 1/4″ phono inputs are used to connect an outboard effect processor, such as a compressor, limiter, reverb, or delay, to the input signal.
- Attenuation: Also known as signal level knobs, these are used to control the gain of the input signal. They can be routed as pre-fader (before the fader) or post-fader (after the fader).
- EQ: Analog mixing consoles usually have 3 or 4 knobs to control the low, mid, and high frequencies. Digital mixing consoles have a digital EQ panel that you can control on the LCD display.
- Aux Sends: Aux sends are used for a variety of purposes. They can be used to route the input signal to an aux output, provide a monitor mix, or send the signal to an effect processor.
- Mute and Solo Buttons: These buttons allow you to mute or solo an individual channel.
- Channel Faders: These are used to control the level of each individual channel.
- Master Channel Fader: This is used to control the overall level of the output signal.
- Outputs: These are the sockets where you plug in your speakers, amplifiers, and other devices.
Understanding Faders
What is a Fader?
A fader is a simple control found at the bottom of each channel strip. It’s used to adjust the level of the signal sent to the master fader. It operates on a logarithmic scale, meaning that the same movement of the fader will result in a small adjustment near the 0 dB mark and a much bigger adjustment further away from the 0 dB mark.
Using Faders
When using faders, it’s best to start with them set to unity gain. This means that the signal will pass through without being boosted or reduced. To ensure that signals sent to the master fader are passed through correctly, double-check that the master fader is set to unity.
To route the first three inputs to the main Left and Right outputs that feed the main speakers, engage the L-R button on the first three inputs.
Tips for Working with Faders
Here are some tips to keep in mind when working with faders:
- Start with faders set to unity gain.
- Double-check that the master fader is set to unity.
- Remember that the master fader controls the output level of the main outputs.
- The same movement of the fader will result in a small adjustment near the 0 dB mark and a much bigger adjustment further away from the 0 dB mark.
Everything You Need to Know About Mixing Consoles
What is a Mixing Console?
A mixing console is like a magical wizard that takes all the different sounds from your mic, instruments, and recordings and combines them together into one big, beautiful symphony. It’s like a conductor leading an orchestra, but for your music.
Types of Mixing Consoles
- Powered Mixers: These are like the powerhouses of the mixing console world. They have the power to take your music to the next level.
- Analog Mixers: These are the old-school mixers that have been around for decades. They don’t have all the bells and whistles of the modern mixers, but they still get the job done.
- Digital Mixers: These are the newest type of mixers on the market. They have all the latest features and technology to make your music sound its best.
Mixer vs. Console
So what’s the difference between a mixer and a console? Well, it’s really just a matter of size. Mixers are smaller and more portable, while consoles are bigger and usually mounted on a desk.
Do You Need a Mixing Console?
Do you need a mixing console? It depends. You can definitely record audio without one, but having a mixing console makes it much easier to capture and combine all your tracks without having to jump between multiple devices.
Can You Use a Mixer Instead of an Audio Interface?
If your mixer has a built-in audio interface, then you don’t need a separate audio interface. But if it doesn’t, then you’ll need to invest in one to get the job done.
What is a Mixing Console?
What are the Components of a Mixing Console?
Mixing consoles, also known as mixers, are like the control centers of a recording studio. They have a bunch of different parts that all work together to make sure the sound coming out of your speakers is as good as it can be. Here are some of the components you’ll find in a typical mixer:
- Channel Strips: These are the parts of the mixer that control the level, panning, and dynamics of individual input signals.
- Inputs: This is where you plug in your instruments, microphones, and other devices to get the sound into the mixer.
- Inserts: These 1/4″ phono inputs are used to connect an outboard effect processor, like a compressor, limiter, reverb, or delay, to the input signal.
- Attenuation: Also known as signal level knobs, these are used to control the gain of the input signal.
- EQ: Most mixers come with separate equalizers for each channel strip. In analog mixers, you’ll find 3 or 4 knobs that control the equalization of low, mid, and high frequencies. In digital mixers, you’ll find a digital EQ panel that you can control on the LCD display.
- Aux Sends: These are used for a few different purposes. First, they can be used to route the input signals to the aux outputs, which are used to provide a monitor to the musicians in a concert. Second, they can be used to control the amount of effect when the same effect processor is used for multiple instruments and vocals.
- Pan Pots: These are used to pan the signal to the left or right speakers. In digital mixers, you can even use 5.1 or 7.1 surround systems.
- Mute and Solo Buttons: These are pretty self-explanatory. Mute buttons turn off the sound completely, while solo buttons only play the sound of the channel you’ve selected.
- Channel Faders: These are used to control the level of each individual channel.
- Master Channel Fader: This is used to control the overall level of the mix.
- Outputs: This is where you plug in your speakers to get the sound out of the mixer.
Differences
Mixing Console Vs Daw
Mixing consoles are the undisputed kings of audio production. They provide a level of control and sound quality that just can’t be replicated in a DAW. With a console, you can shape the sound of your mix with preamps, EQs, compressors, and more. Plus, you can easily adjust levels, panning, and other parameters with the flick of a switch. On the other hand, DAWs offer a level of flexibility and automation that consoles can’t match. You can easily edit, mix, and master your audio with a few clicks, and you can automate effects and parameters to create complex sounds. So, if you’re looking for a classic, hands-on approach to mixing, a console is the way to go. But if you want to get creative and experiment with sound, a DAW is the way to go.
Mixing Console Vs Mixer
Mixers and consoles are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different. Mixers are used to combine multiple audio signals and route them, adjust the level, and change the dynamics. They’re great for live bands and recording studios, as they can process multiple inputs like instruments and vocals. On the other hand, consoles are large mixers mounted on a desk. They have more features, like a parametric equalizer section and auxiliaries, and are often used for public announcement audio. So if you’re looking to record a band or do some live sound, a mixer is the way to go. But if you need more features and control, a console is the better choice.
Mixing Console Vs Audio Interface
Mixing consoles and audio interfaces are two different pieces of equipment that serve different purposes. A mixing console is a large, complex device that is used to mix multiple audio sources together. It is typically used in a recording studio or live sound environment. On the other hand, an audio interface is a smaller, simpler device that is used to connect a computer to external audio sources. It is typically used in a home recording studio or for live streaming.
Mixing consoles are designed to provide a wide range of control over the sound of a mix. They allow the user to adjust levels, EQ, panning, and other parameters. Audio interfaces, on the other hand, are designed to provide a simple connection between a computer and external audio sources. They allow the user to record or stream audio from a computer to an external device. Mixing consoles are more complex and require more skill to use, while audio interfaces are simpler and easier to use.
Conclusion
Mixing consoles are an essential tool for any audio engineer, and with a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to master them in no time. So don’t be intimidated by the knobs and buttons – just remember that practice makes perfect! And if you ever get stuck, just remember the golden rule: “If it ain’t broke, DON’T fix it!” With that said, have fun and get creative – that’s what mixing consoles are all about! Oh, and one last thing – don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the music!
I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.
