What is Mixer? Classification and role of mixers in the sound system

Mixer is a familiar device that appears in home karaoke systems and even professional sound systems. Mixer produces the smoothest, most ear-catching sounds. So what is a mixer? What is the classification and role of the mixer in the sound system? We invite you to find out through the article below!

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What is Mixer?

Mixer is an audio processing device that receives input audio signals and processes (mixes many types of signals), then produces a single complete signal, and then feeds it to an amplifier. This is an indispensable device in the sound system to produce the smoothest, most desired and professional music.

Classification of mixers in audio systems

Depending on the different purposes of use, the mixer also has many types to meet the needs. Below is a classification of mixers in two ways.

According to the operating technique

– Mixer by analog technique (Mixer table)

This type of mixer is often used in professional studios, has a large, bulky area but compensates for good sound processing quality. The calibration is done manually, without going into every detail.

– Analog mixer operates according to digital technology

This series of mixers is a combination of digital signals to change the audio signals and the principles of analog engineering to process the signal path.

– Mixer according to digital technique

The signal paths of this mixer have been fully digitized, including those from microphones and electrical instruments using analog signals, according to digital techniques using DSP principles (like a program, computer software) to compose audio signals. This mixer has a neat engine, fast and simple signal processing.

Based on user needs

If according to user needs, people can be divided into types: mixers for karaoke, mixers for studios, mixers for performances. The cost of these types will vary, but they all have the same operating principle.

The role of the mixer in the sound system

Mixer is an indispensable device in professional sound systems to fine-tune the sound according to the user’s wishes. With a professional sound system for special purposes, a mixer is almost a must-have device.

The mixer will take on the function of receiving signals from other audio sources, then processing them to make the sound more perfect, more in line with the user’s purpose. For example, a mixer used for karaoke will be used to ensure it is in harmony so that when it comes out, the highest quality.

Recording lyrics and music separately and then mixing them together and fine-tuning through high-quality mixers is also common in professional recording studios. From there, it can be seen that the mixer’s great role in fine-tuning the sound.

Some notes when using the mixer

Here are some notes when using the mixer.

Determine the intended use

Depending on different purposes, you can choose for yourself the right type of mixer. Here are some suggested options:

• Mixer for karaoke: for this purpose there are quite simple requirements (for family use).
• Mixer for weddings: higher requirements, need to consider ability and finance.
• Hall sound system: if only signal processing and output sound processing is required, this type is not necessary.
• Stage sound system: you should consider choosing a digital mixer equipped with modern features.
• Studio sound system: can choose 1 analog mixer to improve quality.

Some notes when adjusting the mixer

Here are a few information to note when using a mixer to sing karaoke:

• Plug in the wires and start the mixer with the orchestra
• See if the system is stable or not
• Tune each voice in turn for each instrument
• Need to adjust the gain, pull the volume to the smallest level
• It is necessary to determine the primary and secondary factors to prioritize, not to let the signals have the same sound
• Understand the song
• If there are many mics at the same time, reduce the EF as well as the frequencies that are too low or too high to eliminate annoying sounds.
• Use echo skillfully, know who is the main vocal, who is the sub to adjust accordingly

Above is the definition of the mixer, the classification and the role of the mixer in the sound system. I hope this article will provide you with a lot of useful and helpful information!