1. Designations Inputs Outputs Signal processing
Mixing Consoles
Designations
Inputs
Outputs
Signal processing

2. Sound Control Mixer - Heart of the Audio System
Mixer - Heart of the Sound system
Sound Board, Audio Console, Mixing desk
Main tool of the operator (Board Operator)
Basic Purpose - Controls
What is it - Selects audio signals from various sources
Devices are connected to input channels
Microphones
Output channels of CD players, MD players, DAT players, computers
How Loud will it be - Controls signal level (volume)
Where is it going - Sends audio to various locations
Devices are connected to outputs
Power amplifiers
Input channels of MD players, DAT players, Computers

3. Cue Control Audio System – Sources, Control, Destinations
Equipment System is the Primary Tool of Modern Theatre Sound Design:
Block Diagram - Foreigner Setup
1 - 2
L/R
Mono 3
Group/ Outs
Mixer
Amp
Upstage L/R
Cluster
Radio
Record
Player
MD 1
MD 2
Cass
Computer
1-2
3-4
5-6
7-8
Input Channels

4. Input Buss
This is the section where audio signals from microphones and/or playback equipment enters the mixer
This is the area where impedance matching and Balanced / Un-balanced lines must be carefully watched
The input buss typically starts at the rear of the console with either XLR or ¼” RTS connectors

5. Input Buss

6. Input Buss
Rear view of Allen & Heath QU-32

7. Input Buss Pre-amplifier Pre-amp, trim, trim pot, gain
Used to bring a microphone level signal up to line level for easy manipulation within the mixer
Also used to adjust the line level inputs from other sources
Pad or Attenuator
A switch which will lower an inputs level by a set amount
Usually used in an input device is too “hot” or much too high a level

8. Close up of Pre-amp section
Input channel #
Pad / low end roll off
Gain adjust

9. Equalization section Onboard equalization control will vary greatly
Simple “tone” control
Simply varies the balance between high and low frequencies
Treble and Base
Boost or attenuate high frequencies (treble) or low frequencies (base)
Only adjusts a preset range of frequencies
Hi – Mid – Lo
A fancier version of treble and base control
5 band EQ
Able to boost of attenuate 5 different ranges of frequencies
Parametric EQ
Able to select which frequency range to control and then boost or cut it

10. Equalization section
Low
Low-Mid
High-Mid
High

12. Vocal EQ Cheat Sheet