Mixers

Mixers or audio mixers are devices designed to collect, combine and control multiple audio signals at the same time. They can be used for adjusting the balance, tone, volume of sound and much more. Audio mixers are essentials devices for sound production specialists, musicians or studio recording facilities. Mixers can be fully manual or digital devices. The way they work is the same but the effects they produce can be varied. Mixers are an integral part of audio systems and usually work in conjunction with a power amplifier. Power mixers have amplifiers built into them.

Types of Mixer

Analogue Mixers: Analogue mixers are able to adjust audio signal tonality and volume of each channel. Most functions of the mixer are controlled by knobs and faders placed on the top panel of the mixer. These type of mixers are usually easy to operate and very intuitive.

Digital Mixers: Digital mixers process input audio signals and adjust their volume and tone using digital signal processing technology. Digital mixers can store the positions of faders and knobs and recall these positions in an instant. The faders and knobs perform various functions, so the unit itself remains compact, even if the number of channels increases. Digital mixers offer far greater functionality than an analogue mixer.

Powered Mixers: Powered mixers are simple analogue mixers with built-in power amplifiers. That means the audio signal can be send directly from the mixer to the speakers. This feature makes these devices the most portable and flexible in use from all of the above.