Mixing Desks

Mixing Desks come in many different styles and features to suit a variety of specific tasks, with the current mixers offering a variety of handy features that didn't exist in the past. From crossfading to easy channel mixing and scratch use, these next-gen mixers for powered use, DJs and audio now provide full control of your sound, ensuring you can refine it to the spec that you're looking to achieve.

Got a band? You'll need a mixer. Got a stage show or production coming up? It's certain you'll need a mixer. Whether you're a comedy club, music venue, recording studio, drama group, church choir or are hosting a public event: without an audio mixer, you'll be unable to manage your sound successfully.

Mixing Desk for Live Events

Mixing desks, or audio mixers, are essential tools for live events, providing the control needed to balance and refine the sound of multiple audio sources. Whether for concerts, theatre productions, or public speaking events, a mixing desk ensures that every element of the audio is heard clearly.

One of the primary functions of a mixing desk in live events is to combine various audio inputs. These inputs can include microphones, instruments, and playback devices. Each input channel on the mixing desk allows the sound engineer to adjust the volume, equalisation (EQ), and effects of that particular source. This level of control is crucial for creating a balanced mix that highlights the key elements of the performance while ensuring that no single source overpowers the others.

In addition to volume control, mixing desks can provide detailed equalisation settings for each input channel. This feature enables sound engineers to fine-tune the frequencies of each audio source, enhancing clarity and reducing muddiness. For instance, boosting the higher frequencies of a vocal microphone can make the singer's voice stand out, while cutting certain low frequencies can reduce unwanted background noise.

Mixing desks also offer auxiliary sends and returns, which are used to manage effects and monitor mixes. Auxiliary sends allow the sound engineer to send a portion of the audio signal from any input channel to external effects units, such as reverb or delay processors. The processed signal is then returned to the mixing desk and blended with the original audio, adding depth to the live sound. Additionally, auxiliary sends can create custom monitor mixes for performers, ensuring they hear exactly what they need during the performance.

DJ Mixer Functionality

One of the core functions of a DJ mixer is crossfading. This feature enables DJs to transition smoothly between two tracks by adjusting the volume levels of each. The crossfader slider allows the DJ to blend the tracks at varying levels, creating seamless transitions that maintain the energy on the dance floor.

EQ controls are another feature of DJ mixers. These allow DJs to adjust the bass, mid, and treble frequencies of each track, tailoring the sound to fit the vibe of the event. By manipulating these frequencies, DJs can enhance certain elements of a track, such as boosting the bass for a more powerful beat or cutting the mids to reduce vocal prominence. This level of control helps in crafting a balanced and dynamic sound throughout the set.

DJ mixers also include channel faders and gain controls, which are used to manage the volume of individual tracks and inputs. This allows for precise volume adjustments, ensuring that each track is heard clearly and at the appropriate level. Gain controls help to balance the input levels from different sources, preventing distortion and maintaining sound quality.

Effects and filters are integral to DJ mixers, providing creative tools to enhance the performance. Common effects include reverb, delay, and flanger, which can add depth and texture to the music. Filters, such as high-pass and low-pass filters, allow DJs to isolate certain frequencies, creating dramatic buildups and drops that excite the crowd. These effects can be applied in real-time, allowing for spontaneous creativity during a set.

Cueing is another critical function of DJ mixers. It allows DJs to listen to a track in their headphones before playing it through the main speakers. This enables them to match beats, set cue points, and prepare transitions without the audience hearing, ensuring smooth and professional mixes.

DJ Audio Mixer Options

DJ audio mixers come in a variety of options to suit different needs. From compact mixers for personal use to sophisticated models designed for live events, there is a wide range of choices available to DJs at all levels.

For those who mix at home or in small venues, compact mixers are an excellent option. These mixers typically feature fewer channels, making them easy to use and ideal for beginners or those with limited space. Despite their smaller size, they still offer essential functions like EQ controls, crossfaders, and effects. These mixers are perfect for personal practice sessions, small parties, or home studio setups.

On the other hand, mixers designed for live events are often more feature-rich. These models usually come with multiple channels, allowing DJs to connect and manage a variety of input sources such as turntables, CD players, laptops, and microphones. The number of channels correlates directly with the number of audio sources a DJ can control simultaneously. For example, a 4-channel mixer can handle up to four input devices at once, providing greater flexibility and control.

Mixers with high channel counts (such as 8 or more channels) are particularly useful in complex setups, where multiple devices and effects need to be managed simultaneously. These mixers often include advanced features like multiple EQ bands, extensive effects options, and customisable fader curves, making them suitable for professional DJs and large-scale events.

Budget-friendly options are also available for those who are just starting or looking to expand their equipment without breaking the bank. These mixers may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models but still provide the core functionalities needed for effective mixing. They offer a great entry point for aspiring DJs, allowing them to learn and grow without a significant financial investment.

Shop Mixing Desks

At ElectroMarket, we offer a wide selection of modern mixing desks (and indeed, some classic mixers too!) in a variety of types to cater to whatever use you're hoping to achieve. Whether you're looking for something on a budget or looking for a feature-filled mixing device, we'll be happy to cater to you. You'll find a powerful variety of systems that are great for your live band, studio or even DJ-ing.