What is a Mixing Console?

A mixing console (also called a mixing desk, sound desk or mixer) is the control surface where a sound engineer combines, balances and processes every microphone and instrument to create the mix. Live shows usually have one at front of house for the audience, and often a second at the side of the stage for monitors.

How a mixing console works

Every input passes through the desk in the same order:

  1. Input: each source arrives on its own channel, from the stage box or multicore.
  2. Gain: the engineer sets the input level so it is strong but not distorted.
  3. Process: EQ, compression and gates shape each sound.
  4. Mix: faders set the balance between channels, and effects such as reverb are added.
  5. Output: the mix is sent to the main PA, monitors and recording or broadcast feeds.

Visiting engineers need to know which desk a venue has well before the show, which is why receiving houses share their technical specifications through Crescat.

Analogue vs digital mixing consoles

An analogue desk has a physical control for every function. A digital desk is software-controlled, with built-in effects and the ability to save and recall a whole show as a file. Digital desks are now standard for most live sound, as engineers can bring their show file from venue to venue.

Parts of a mixing console

  • Input channels, one per source
  • Faders to control levels
  • EQ and dynamics on each channel
  • Aux or mix outputs for monitors
  • Groups and VCAs for controlling several channels at once
  • Master outputs to the PA
  • Scene memory, on digital desks

Frequently asked questions

How many channels does a live desk need?

Enough for every input on the act's input list, plus spares. Small venues often have 24 to 32; large shows use 64 or more.

What is a show file?

A saved file from a digital desk containing all its settings. Touring engineers load it onto the venue's desk, if it is the same make, to save set-up time.

Why do engineers specify desks in their rider?

Because they know their preferred desk well and may have a show file for it. Venues should say early if they cannot supply it.

Related terms