music production mics + mixers

music production

What is the primary function of an audio mixer?

To bring together different instruments and parts into one place for mixing.

What are the two main sections of a mixing board?

Input and monitoring

What are the two types of mixing board arrangements?

In-line and split

What does the input section of a mixing board do?

It sends the signal that is going to be recorded into the mixer

What is the purpose of the monitoring section?

To listen back to the recording

What is a common feature of an input strip on a mixing board?

Controls for volume, frequency, dynamics, and effects.

What is another name for an audio mixer?

Mixing console

What control sets the level of the signal entering the channel’s inbuilt preamp?

Gain level

What is the purpose of a pad on a mixing board?

The reduce the input level be a set amount (20dB)

What does phase reversal do to an input signal?

It changes the phase of the input signal by 180 degrees

What voltage does phantom power supply to condenser mics and DI boxes?

48 V

What does the mic/line switch do on a mixing board?

It selects the type of input: mic-level XLR connection or line-level quarter-inch Jack connection

What is the function of the flip control on in-line mixers?

It changes the channel from input function to monitoring function.

What is the purpose of auxiliary sends on a mixing board?

To send a copy of the inputted signal to various effect units outside the mixing board.

What is meant by a “dry/wet mix” in audio processing?

It refers to combining the original(dry) signal with the processed(wet) signal

What is the purpose of aux sends in a mixing console?

To create a submix of the console’s inputs

How many aux sends are typically found on a desk’s input channel?

Four to eight aux sends

What are the two main types of mics

Dynamic and condenser

What is the function of a microphone as a transducer?

Converts one type of energy to another

How do dynamic mics operate?

Using electromagnetic induction

What is the role of phantom power in condenser mics?

Provides voltage needed for operation

What is an electret mic?

A small condenser mic

What determines the direction from which a mic “listens”?

Its polar response pattern

What is the polar patter shape of a cardioid mic?

heart-shaped

What is the primary function of a mixer in audio production?

To accept, process, and combine audio signals

How do analog mixers differ from digital mixers in terms of control?

Analog mixers have repeating codes for each channel; digital mixers require selecting one channel at a time

What is a key advantage of digital mixers over analog mixers?

Ability to save presets

What is the recommended distance between a mic and a mouth for optimal sound?

2-4 inches

What is the significance of understanding how a hardware mixer works?

It prepare you for using software-based mixers