Live & Studio Mixers

Live and Studio Mixers

Live and studio mixers are simply systems for routing audio and combining signals where needed. Judging by the names, the difference between the two is very clear. One is used for live audio on the spot, and the other is used in a studio set up. With advances in technology, the difference between the two has become blurry.

Other than your budget, there are other factors you ought to consider when contemplating the purchase of a live or studio sound mixer. Below is a checklist that will help you narrow down your selection to the console that best suits your situation.

• I/O and channels: You should consider the number of mics you want to connect. For example, if your band has stereo keyboards as well as other instruments, you'll need a mixing device with enough built-in stereo channels that will accommodate all of them. Mackie is known for its many inputs including USB functions.
• Application: Will the gadget be used to record, play, or both?
• Signal Routing and Buses: These functions are particularly significant for those who are involved in recording. Those who will be using special-purpose hardware such as headphones, monitors, and recording gear will need more signal paths and flexibility.

1. Connect your audial equipment to the different inputs found on the mixer. Each musical instrument is assigned to its input. The higher the number of inputs on the hardware, the larger it is.
2. Connect the monitoring and footage equipment to the different outputs on the device. The device outputs are easy to monitor simply by plugging in headphones as well as VU meters.
3. The channel inputs that will be used in making the sound should be turned on.
4. Go ahead and make adjustments to the volume for each input with the use of a knob or switch depending on the make of the device.
5. Make adjustments to the mid-range, bass, and treble bands for individual channels.
6. The channels needing special effects should be routed to an auxiliary channel.
7. With the use of the knob, pan each channel of the gadget as required.
8. Normally done in the post-production stage of a television program or a film, the recorded sounds are combined into different channels, and the different characteristics of the sound are adjusted.

With constant technological progress in the field of sound, new ways are being devised on a daily basis to help in playback and taping. Companies such as Mackie, Yamaha, and Behringer have realized this and gone ahead to create tablet and mobile applications such as the fader app used for documenting. The continuous updates for these applications have made the entire process more seamless.

All tracks produced by a mixing gadget are capable of recording internal and external audio sources to disk. This implies that it is possible to record all audio inputs on your interface.