If you're running a live sound setup, there may be times when you want to create separate mixes for different parts of the venue or for different purposes. For example, you might want to send a different mix to the stage monitors than what the audience is hearing, or you might want to create a separate mix for a recording or broadcast. In this post, we'll go over the basics of how to set up separate mixes on a mixer.
The first thing you need to do is make sure your mixer has the necessary auxiliary outputs. Most modern mixers will have at least a couple of auxiliary outputs, but some smaller models may only have one or none at all. If you don't have enough auxiliary outputs, you may need to add an outboard effects processor or a separate mixer to create additional mixes.
Next, you'll need to decide which channels you want to include in each mix. This will depend on the specific needs of your setup, but as a general rule, you'll want to include any channels that are essential for the mix you're creating. For example, if you're creating a mix for the stage monitors, you'll probably want to include the vocals and any instruments that the performers need to hear in order to stay in time and in tune.
Once you've decided which channels to include in each mix, you'll need to route the signals to the appropriate auxiliary outputs. This is typically done using the auxiliary send controls on each channel strip. Each channel will have a knob or fader that controls the level of the signal being sent to the auxiliary output. Simply adjust the auxiliary send level for each channel as needed to achieve the desired balance in the mix.
It's important to note that the auxiliary output is usually pre-fader, which means that the channel fader does not affect the level of the signal being sent to the auxiliary output. This allows you to adjust the overall level of the mix using the auxiliary output fader or the master fader, without affecting the balance of the mix.
Once you've set up the auxiliary outputs and routed the signals to the appropriate channels, you'll need to connect the auxiliary outputs to the devices that will be receiving the separate mixes. This could be a separate amplifier and speaker system, an effects processor, or a recording device.
With these basic steps, you should be able to set up separate mixes on a mixer for a variety of purposes. Whether you're creating a mix for the stage monitors, a recording, or some other purpose, having the ability to create separate mixes can greatly enhance your live sound setup.