Mixing Boards Output Section – Part Three (Section Three – Mains / Master)
The Mains / Master Section is much more than just one or two faders that control the final output. Most mixers include some combination of AUX Sends and Returns, Submaster Outputs for Recording, Monitoring Levels / Meters, a Talkback Mic, Headphone Jack, Main Mix Outputs, Control Room Outputs, Submaster Inserts, and various AUX Mix Outputs. Of course, only some mixers will have all these features, and we will not cover them all in this booklet. Typically, the larger the Mixer, the more features it will likely have. In my experience, having all the options and features available on our larger Mixing Boards was nice, but I didn’t find a use for most of these features during the performances I was using the Mixer for. Again, whether you are working with an “Analog” or “Digital” Mixer – the “basic functions” are the same. Let’s take a look at some of the features.
As you can see the larger mixing boards have more Faders, Knobs, Outputs, AUX Sends, and Returns, and much more. If you are just starting out this may appear to be quite intimidating, but it’s actually easy to learn and understand once you get a little “Hands-On” training and experience.
Note: We’ll continue to use the smaller mixer (also referred to as a mixing board, mixing console) for our demonstration purposes in this booklet, but will reference the larger mixing board as needed.
Main / Master Faders
These are the final level controls (faders) that provide the combined “Mixed” channel signals to the Main Outputs. The Sub-Groups are assigned to the Main Fader as well. There is commonly only “One” Main Fader (with a Pan control) on most of the larger Mixing Boards, but of course, this depends on the manufacturer of the board. You will also encounter many Mixing Boards with both “Left and Right” Main Faders.
The Main Faders “combine” the “final” output signal that will go directly to sound processors (for Equalization / Delay, etc.), to recording gear, or directly to the power amplifier inputs.
Monitoring – There are level controls for monitoring what is heard in your headphones. On most Mixing Boards, you will have options to monitor signals going to external powered Studio Monitor Speakers, AUX and Sub-Group Outputs, etc. Each of these will likely have its own level control as well.
Every mixing board (large or small) will have a headphone jack and volume control. Make sure you get a good quality set of headphones and learn your way around the board so you can listen to everything happening!
Meters (pictured below) are there for a reason. It’s ok for the signal to hit “Yellow” occasionally, but make sure that you never stay consistently in the “Red.” This is never good, as Clipping will occur, and the signal will be distorted.
