In the world of audio production, mixers are the unsung heroes that orchestrate the harmonious blending of various sounds into a coherent masterpiece. Central to a mixer's functionality are its individual channels, each acting as a conduit for audio signals. In this blog, we'll explore the inner workings of a mixer channel and delve into the fascinating journey of audio signals from input to output.

At its core, a mixer channel is a dedicated pathway for an audio signal. Imagine it as a virtual tube that guides the audio from its source to the final mix. Each channel on a mixer is equipped with a range of controls and processes that enable you to shape and manipulate the sound to perfection. Each mixer may be different offering different levels specific to live streaming, live performance, and studio mixers

Signal Input: Plugging In

The audio signal on a mixer starts at its input stage. This is where you connect your various audio sources, such as microphones, instruments, or playback devices. Inputs may come in different forms, most portable or small mixers have an XLR or a 1/4-inch Jack. Each input typically includes gain or trim controls, allowing you to adjust the input level. It's crucial to set the right input level to prevent distortion while capturing the audio's full dynamic range.

Equalization (EQ): Sculpting the Sound

After the input stage, the signal passes through the equalization section, commonly known as EQ. EQ controls enable you to adjust the balance of frequencies within the audio signal. You can boost or cut specific frequency ranges, such as bass, midrange, and treble, to tailor the sound to your desired tonal character. The EQ is super helpful to remove any unwanted frequencies that muddle into the mix

Fader and Pan Controls: Finding Balance in Space

As the signal nears its destination, the fader and pan controls take center stage. The fader adjusts the channel's volume, allowing you to balance it against other channels in the mix. The pan control determines the placement of the signal within the stereo field, ensuring a balanced and immersive listening experience.

Dynamics Processing: More Control

The next stop is dynamics. This includes functions like compression and gating. Compression helps to control the dynamic range of the audio, ensuring that louder parts don't overshadow quieter ones. Gating, on the other hand, can mute or attenuate the signal when it falls below a certain threshold, eliminating unwanted background noise. You can find these tools also define the sonic elements found in electronic music such as side chain compression.

Aux Sends and Effects: Adding Spatial Depth

Mixer channels often include auxiliary (aux) sends that route a portion of the signal to external effects processors. This is where reverbs, delays, and other spatial effects come into play. By adjusting the aux send levels, you can control the amount of processed signal blended back into the main mix, adding depth and dimension to the sound.

Signal Output: The Final Mix

The signal, now shaped and polished, is ready to join the collective ensemble. It merges with signals from other channels to form the final mix. From here, the master fader controls the overall output level, the monitor mix, and more, ensuring that the mix is cohesive and sounds great across different playback systems.

Essentially all mixers are composed of the same features that we discussed whether they are digital or analog. They come in different sizes such as the 6-channel Live streaming mixer pictured below, all the way up to 32 channels like the large desk you see on our homepage. There are lots of brands that offer additional features or FX in order to stand out from the rest. You might even encounter the same desk in different studios.