A mixing console is an electronic device for working with audio signals: summing, controlling, processing, correcting and converting several audio sources into one. More modern models are equipped with equalizers, filters and effect processors. They surprise with their versatility and compactness, the ability to control through a computer. At the same time, it is possible to save all the settings for the compositions, which undoubtedly makes the remote control an indispensable tool for sound engineers. The remote control is the main component of concert sound, removing noise and tuning incoming signals.
Application
Depending on the areas of use, mixing consoles are divided into several main types:
- Studio
- concert
- broadcasting;
- DJ
Of course, this classification is very conditional, since there are varieties of such devices used exclusively for musical accompaniment and vocals (for example, for karaoke parties) or simple and inexpensive remote control switches for home use.
Varieties and types
There are digital mixing consoles and analog. Each of these species has both supporters and opponents, since both options have obvious advantages and disadvantages.
For example, analog signal processing is considered more preferable by professionals, since in digital models signal processing is carried out in two ways - to digital and vice versa, and this definitely affects the quality of the processed sound.
Also mixing consoles come with built-in and separate power amplifiers. A remote control without a power amplifier has such significant disadvantages as cumbersomeness and the need to pull cables to the speaker system, which is not always convenient. The advantage of remotes with built-in amplifiers in their mobility and operational work.
Choose
Before you connect a mixing console, you must also know that they differ in the number of outputs and inputs. Studio and concert mixing consoles for professionals usually have more than 6 Aux buses, at least 32 inputs, at the inputs there is a powerful equalizer and 4 or more subgroups. In addition, they feature long-stroke and high-precision faders. And compact mixers have more meager equalizers, a small number of channels and often lack faders.
According to the type of power, the mixing consoles are divided into active and passive. The former are equipped with built-in preamps, which makes it possible to work even with a weak signal, amplifying it to the required level, while the latter consists of elements that do not require power sources for operation.
Below is an overview of mixing consoles from different manufacturers with their characteristics and purpose.
Behringer XENYX Q802USB
This model of an inexpensive and portable remote control belongs to the class of universal. At the same time, if you connect it to a computer, the mixer will allow you to work at a professional level. According to the description of the Q802USB mixing console, it is clear that this is one of the most compact models not only in the Behringer line, but in general among similar devices in the audio market.
It is equipped with only six channels, 2 of them are monaural and 2 are stereo. This, of course, is not enough to summarize the sound at large events, but it is quite enough for small holidays, such as a corporate party. Also, 6 channels are enough for sound recording, and the ability to directly connect to a PC allows you to flexibly manipulate the signal at the software level.
Characteristics of the mixing console Q802USB
Despite its small size and simplicity, this device provides the owner with very extensive possibilities for controlling sound:
- remote control with ultra low noise level;
- 2 microphone preamps XENYX;
- for external FX devices - FX send through the channel;
- Neoclassical “British” three-band equalizer for musical and warm sound;
- built-in stereo USB / audio interface for direct connection to a computer;
- extremely robust construction and high-quality components guarantee durability;
- 1 stereo aux return as a separate stereo input or for FX applications;
- main mix output with separate controls;
- CD / tape inputs;
- weight - 1.2 kg.
Ergonomic design
Soundcraft's Ui12 is a digital mixing console. It is made in a compact format such as Stagebox and has 12 inputs. With cross-platform compatibility, built-in Wi-Fi, and the ability to control any connected device using a standard browser, this model offers a flexible and full-featured sound mixing solution for a very wide range of sound settings.
Ui12 is compatible with devices on Windows, iOS, Android, Linux and Mac OS, and also supports working simultaneously with 10 different devices. The model has a compressor, a 31-band equalizer and a gate at each output, a frequency analyzer at the input and output, working in real time.
This mixer, according to user reviews, is an example of thoughtful design that takes into account the needs and characteristics of a variety of consumers. Its capabilities for mounting on a rack, convenient functional elements, a fortified case, and the presence of handles for moving are only a small part of the advantages of the design of this model.
Features and specifications
This device, modern in all respects, provides high-quality sound processing and is a universal and reliable tool for working with sound in any conditions:
- control via smartphone, tablet or PC;
- reliable and strong design;
- built-in Wi-Fi module;
- for simultaneous control - independent network interfaces;
- signal processing from DigiTech, Lexicon and DBX;
- HPF, compressor, four-band parametric equalizer on all input channels;
- two-channel audio USB playback;
- passive type;
- remote control over Ethernet;
- 12 channels
- two headphone outputs;
- 4-band parametric equalizer;
- weight - 2.29 kg.
From the Big brand
The active mixer NEO4 FX16USBEQ with a power of 4 ohms 2 x 250 W is the latest development and meets the highest quality requirements. The device is equipped with an advanced classic amplifier with SMD technology, a toroidal power supply. A complete set of protection with forced cooling. The output connectors are Jack Speakon. Other features include:
- type - active;
- frequency range - from 20 Hz to 20 kHz;
- four mono-universal channels using jack (line);
- five-band equalizer;
- balance adjustment on each channel;
- for each channel - sensitivity control;
- built-in MP3-USB player;
- three-band timbre block for all channels;
- headphone connection with a choice of source and volume control;
- volume control for each channel;
- uses 16 DSP programs;
- for condenser microphones - phantom power;
- weight with packaging - 6 kg.
Mackie dl806
This is a real revolution in managing live quality sound. This compact USB mixing console combines mobility, the amazing simplicity of the iPad and the power of a state-of-the-art mixer. Eight proprietary mic preamps deliver superb sound quality. But most importantly, now the sound engineer can control the remote control, being at any convenient point, whether it is a bar, dressing room or any place in the hall.
Remote control can be done wirelessly at a distance of up to 50 meters. All these characteristics allow you to quickly change the necessary settings and effectively control the sound quality from different points of the hall. Specifications:
- 4 AUX sends
- eight-channel digital mixer;
- ability to control via iPad;
- support for processing plugins;
- 8 Onyx mic preamps
- control the signal from the iPad and write to it;
- simultaneous support for up to 10 devices from iPad for personal monitoring and wireless control.
Monitor Mixer Roland M48
This is an ideal device, thanks to the controls that are separately adjustable for each input and input channel, it allows each musician in the studio or on the stage to establish his own inimitable balance of instruments. The mixer provides for reverb, the ability to mix 40 input channels and three-band equalizers, assigned to each group separately. Any artist can choose the necessary sound sources and summarize them in the proportions he needs.
To create a unique personal mix, it is possible for the regulators of the corresponding group to adjust the settings of the three-band equalizer, panorama and built-in reverb. The limiter is designed to protect your ears from sudden bursts of volume.
Features
Through the AUX input, you can connect a metronome or other audio source whose signal you want to enter into the song. Connect with other musicians will help the built-in microphone. In this case, without removing the headphones, if necessary, listen to the surrounding space. Advantages:
- the ability to set your own instrument balance;
- the ability to separately configure for each input channel level and panorama;
- natural sound in high quality;
- the ability to simultaneously connect to an amplifier with speakers and headphones;
- Fast, trouble-free Ehternet connection via one REAC cable
- convenient and flexible mixing of 40 input channels;
- connecting additional playback and recording stereo devices through the Aux input and Aux output.