1. Understanding
Mixing Desks

2. Functions of a mixer Combining, routing and adjusting audio signals
“summing” of audio signals
Giving the engineer control over the sound

3. Channels
Each channel is dedicated to a single audio signal, or instrument
The amount of channels available on a mixing console varies, so make sure you have enough
How many channels would you suggest for:
A live show?
A small project studio?
A professional recording studio?

4. Busses
Busses are used to route several audio signals at once. Also referred to as “groups”
Useful if you do not have enough audio channels for mixdown…
Allows the engineer to have several sources, say all the drum mics, on one fader

5. Auxiliaries (aux sends)
Allows several audio signals to be routed to an external device at once
Used for monitoring purposes in live situations
The controls allow the engineer to adjust the amount of audio signal being sent from its corresponding channel to the aux send.
Commonly used for reverb effects

6. Equalisation
Equalisation is used to attenuate or boost frequencies for the given audio signal / channel
There are 3 main types of EQ on mixing consoles:
Parametric EQ
Semi-parametric EQ
Graphic EQ

7. Equalisation Parametric EQ A precise way of using EQ
Allows the engineer to control the three parameters of EQ
Amplitude, Centre Frequency and Bandwidth
A precise way of using EQ

8. Equalisation Semi-parametric EQ Not as precise as Parametric
Also known as sweepable
Bandwidth of centre frequency is pre-determined.
Not as precise as Parametric

9. Equalisation Graphic Equalisation
Often seen on the master output, or used as outboard gear for FOH
Only adjustable on certain frequencies with fixed bandwidths.

10. Outputs Each mixing desk will have a variety of outputs
Stereo outputs (most, if not all)
Mono output
Direct buss/group outputs
Aux outputs
Channel direct outputs (usually used for recording)
Headphone output
Control Room Output

11. Outputs
The amount of outputs and inputs needed must be determined before selecting the right mixing console for the job
There are different input types (Line and pre- amp), so make sure that the right amount are chosen. Always better to have more than needed than not enough!

12. Choice of Mixing Desk For example:
If you are recording a live band, then the minimum amount of input types you would need should be based on the amount of microphones you will use
If you are engineering a live gig, again, inputs must be decided, along with output types. Think about outputs for monitors, outboards effects etc.