library_music Music Gear Guide

Audio Mixer Inputs and Channels: A Beginner's Guide

Hey! So, you've got your hands on an audio mixer, or maybe you're thinking about getting one, and now you're staring at all those knobs, buttons, and inputs wondering, “What does all this even mean?” Don't worry—I'm here to break it down for you in the easiest way possible. By the end of this, you'll know exactly what those inputs and channels do and how to use them. Let's get started!

What Is an Audio Mixer?

Think of an audio mixer as the control center for your sound. It's where all your mics, instruments, and other audio sources come together. You can adjust the volume, tone, and effects for each one, and then send the final mix to your speakers, computer, or recording device.

Why Do You Need One?

If you're working with more than one mic or instrument, a mixer makes your life so much easier. It lets you:

  • Control multiple audio sources: Adjust the volume and tone of each mic or instrument separately.
  • Add effects: Like reverb or echo to make your sound more professional.
  • Send audio to different places: Like speakers, headphones, or a computer for recording.

What Are Inputs and Channels?

This is where things can get a little confusing, but I'll keep it simple.

Inputs

  • These are the places where you plug in your mics, instruments, or other audio sources.
  • Most mixers have a mix of XLR inputs (for mics) and 1/4” inputs (for instruments or line-level devices like keyboards).

Channels

  • Each input usually has its own channel. A channel is like a mini control panel for that input.
  • On each channel, you'll find knobs or sliders to adjust things like volume, bass, treble, and effects.

How Many Inputs and Channels Do You Need?

This depends on what you're doing:

  • For a solo performer: A mixer with 4-6 channels is usually enough.
  • For a band: You'll need more channels—maybe 8-12 or more, depending on how many mics and instruments you're using.
  • For podcasting or streaming: A small mixer with 2-4 channels is often plenty.

What Do All Those Knobs and Buttons Do?

Let's break it down channel by channel:

1. Gain/Trim

  • This controls how loud the signal is when it comes into the mixer. Turn it up if the sound is too quiet, or down if it's too loud and distorting.

2. EQ (Equalization)

  • These knobs let you adjust the bass, midrange, and treble. For example, you can make a voice sound warmer by boosting the bass or clearer by boosting the treble.

3. Aux Sends

  • These let you send audio to external effects (like reverb) or monitors (so performers can hear themselves).

4. Pan

  • This controls whether the sound comes out of the left speaker, the right speaker, or both.

5. Fader

  • This is the big slider that controls the overall volume of that channel.

6. Mute and Solo Buttons

  • Mute: Turns off the sound for that channel.
  • Solo: Lets you hear just that channel by itself (great for troubleshooting).

How to Set Up Your Mixer

Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Plug in your mics and instruments: Use the right inputs (XLR for mics, 1/4” for instruments).
  2. Adjust the gain: Turn it up until the sound is clear but not distorting.
  3. Set the EQ: Tweak the bass, midrange, and treble to make each channel sound its best.
  4. Adjust the faders: Set the volume for each channel so everything sounds balanced.
  5. Connect the outputs: Plug your mixer into your speakers, computer, or recording device.

A Few Extra Tips

  1. Start Small
  • If you're just starting out, don't get a mixer with too many channels. A simple 4-channel mixer is a great place to start.
  1. Label Your Channels
  • Use tape or a label maker to mark which mic or instrument is on each channel. It'll save you a lot of confusion later.
  1. Test Before You Go Live
  • Always do a sound check before recording or performing. Make sure everything sounds good and is at the right volume.
  1. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment
  • Play around with the EQ and effects to see what sounds best. There's no “right” way to do it—it's all about what sounds good to you.

My Top Picks for Beginners

Here are a few mixers that are perfect if you're just starting out:

    1. Behringer Xenyx Q502USB: Affordable, easy to use, and has USB for connecting to a computer.

Behringer Xenyx Q502USB audio mixer, affordable and easy to use with USB connectivity

    1. Yamaha MG06X: Compact, reliable, and great for small setups.

Yamaha MG06X audio mixer, compact and reliable for small audio setups

    1. Mackie Mix8: Simple and straightforward, with enough channels for most beginners.

Mackie Mix8 audio mixer, simple and straightforward with sufficient channels for beginners

Final Thoughts

An audio mixer might look intimidating at first, but once you understand the basics, it's actually pretty simple. Whether you're recording music, running a podcast, or setting up a live performance, a mixer gives you the control you need to make your sound the best it can be.