Adjusting Levels; The Theory; In Practice - Native Instruments traktor kontrol s5 Manual

2.4

Adjusting Levels

Before we continue with the tutorials, let's talk about the importance of setting your mix levels
correctly. We will provide a few simple hints which help you achieve the best sound with your
mix.
Even if this section looks a bit technical at first, please take the time to read these few pages,
as this knowledge will help you later on, especially in a live situation!
2.4.1

The Theory

By mixing, you blend together (and process) signals coming from multiple sound sources. The
mix is almost always louder than a single source. So it's important to keep levels within a safe
range.
As a basic rule, you will want to avoid signal clipping, while keeping them loud enough so you
use the full dynamic range available.
▪ If your signal exceeds the specified limits, it can't get any louder, but the sound quality is
degraded by digital distortion, called clipping. Clipping leads to scratchy, unpleasant nois-
es being added to the loudest signals in your mix. Although the music may appear louder
overall, it will lose its impact. Speakers will suffer from this and so will your audience!
(Also, be prepared for some annoyed sound technician or club owner coming down on you.)
▪ If, on the other hand, you mix with very low levels, you will encounter the other extreme; an
elevated noise floor, especially apparent in quiet sections of your performance.
Hence, you should always make sure that your signals stay in the safe range.
2.4.2

In Practice

To assist you in adjusting levels, S8's Mixer is equipped with various level meters and controls.
Each level meter consists of a range of blue LEDs, indicating the safe signal range, along with
an orange LED at the top indicating the clipping.
Using Your S5—Getting Started
TRAKTOR KONTROL S5 - Manual - 43
Adjusting Levels