How does a mixing desk work?
Put simply, a mixing desk primarily serves to combine signals from various audio sources and output them as a single signal. To this end, mixing desks are equipped with so-called "channels", to which the incoming audio signals are assigned and which allow the user to adjust the balance between the volume and frequencies of the different signals. Depending on the model in question, mixing desks feature various tools, such as "equalisers", "compressors", and other effects, and the signals that have been processed using these are then routed to the master output or stereo output, where the overall volume can be adjusted. The master output is also referred to as the "sum output" or "master bus", and mixing desks often have so-called "auxiliary outputs" ("AUX outs" or "mix bus outs" for short), which provide extra options such as creating separate, individual monitor mixes for each musician on stage. If the mixing desk has a digital (e.g. USB) interface, the user can also connect it to a computer and, depending on the mixing desk model, record individual channels or the sum output signal via their favourite DAW software.
What brands and models of mixing desk are available?
Mixing desks are generally divided into two categories: Firstly, there are analogue mixing desks, which as their name suggests process the signals in an analogue manner. "What you see is what you get" is the order of the day here, which makes these mixing desks correspondingly easy to use. Digital mixing desks make up the second category, which of course operate entirely digitally and generally come with a number of additional features, but this has the disadvantage of making them more complicated to operate. A range of specialised mixing desks that are optimised for use in specific fields of application are also available on the market.
The most well-known manufacturers of mixing desks for live and studio applications include Behringer, Soundcraft, Allen & Heath, and t.mix, while high-end brands like Audient, Trident, DiGiCo, and Neve offer a range of mixers in the upper price segment.
Analogue mixers and analogue recording mixing desks
Why is it a good idea to choose a compact analogue model as your first mixing desk?
The advantages of doing this include the clear structure and modest range of functions that such mixing desks provide - these are by no means a reflection of their quality, however! Every mixing desk features a preamp that amplifies the signal to the required level - this function is almost universally referred to as "Gain" and is usually implemented as a rotary control at the top end of the channel strip. Below this, users will generally find the equaliser (or "EQ") section, which in the case of mixing desks in the budget price range are generally basic and can only boost or attenuate a fixed frequency range. Next down from the EQ section, there is normally a so-called "panorama" control, which allows the user to pan the signal to the left or right of the stereo mix.
Analogue mixing desks are in no way inferior to their digital counterparts in terms of quality. Users who have got to grips with and can operate this type of mixing desk without difficulty will have a much easier time transitioning to a digital mixer, while also being able to get the most out of the benefits these models provide - the transition is somewhat more difficult the other way around, however, for example due to the fact that digital mixers can have several user interfaces, which means things can quickly get confusing for those not yet familiar with mixing desks. A firmly-established classic among compact analogue mixing desks is the Mackie 1604 VLZ4, which is now into its fourth generation, and a similar model is the Behringer Xenyx QX 2442 USB.
Digital mixers and digital recording mixing desks
Digital mixing desks boast a significantly higher number of features than their analogue counterparts, and these generally include onboard effects like reverb, echo, and modulation effects. Some desks even feature virtual guitar amps, immensely facilitating the process of recording guitar tracks, and the channel strips of digital mixing desks are usually much more opulent in terms of features than those of analogue models - in addition to the EQ section, for instance, digital mixing desk channels often feature "dynamic tools" such as compressors and noise gates for processing the audio signal. The major advantage of digital mixing desks over their analogue cousins is their ability to store the various settings so that these can be recalled at a later date. This allows the user to create presets for specific channels, or even store entire shows.
Digital mixing desks also offer another clear advantage, which is that they can be expanded, e.g. through the addition of extra inputs and outputs. This is achieved by means of an optionally available stagebox, which can be connected to the mixer using a CAT cable (also known as an Ethernet cable). A digital mixing desk can thus easily be used as a multi-channel audio interface. For this reason, digital mixers are the ideal solution for sound reinforcement (PA) applications and for studio use. The well-known manufacturer Behringer offers mixing desks with an excellent price-performance with the X32 Compact model for live applications and the X32 Producer model for studio recordings. Thomann's in-house brand the t.mix in turn also offers the t.mix 24.12, a budget-friendly digital mixing desk that is ideal both for live and studio applications.
Powered mixers
Users who are looking for a mixing desk solely for use in sound reinforcement/PA applications may well find that a powered mixer is just what they need. This design includes an onboard power amplifier, meaning that the desk can be directly combined with passive speakers. As with so many other products, customers can also opt for one of Thomann's bundles, such as the Dynacord Powermate 1000-3 Bundle or the Behringer PMP 6000 Bundle, both of which additionally include a multicore cable. Powered mixers are ideal for use with PA systems used in rehearsal rooms, but they are also a good solution for small events.
DJ mixers
DJ mixers are another sub-category in the mixing desk family. As their name suggests, these are optimised for use by DJs, and they generally come equipped with both phono and line inputs for connecting turntables and CD players as well as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. An absolute classic in this category is the Pioneer DJM-Series, but more affordable models like the t.mix 201-USB Play and the Behringer DX-626 DJ Mixer are also an excellent option.
Rack mixers
Rack mixers are designed to be installed in 19" rack units and represent a space-saving alternative to conventional mixing desks. In practice, these mixers are most commonly used as keyboard sub-mixers in the studio, or as part of fixed installations in live music clubs - where every inch of space counts. Thomann's range of rack mixers includes models such as the t.mix Rackmix 821 FX USB.
WiFi mixing desks
Another interesting sub-category in the mixing desk family are the so-called "WiFi mixing desks", which are generally inexpensive to purchase because they are operated exclusively via WiFi connection using a laptop or tablet computer. Thomann of course has a wide selection of these mixers in store, including reliable models like the Behringer X Air XR18 and the Soundcraft Ui16.
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