Introduction To Consoles - SoundCraft Signature 16 User Manual

2.1: CONSOLE INTRO
16, 22, 22MTK User Manual
GETTING STARTED > INTRODUCTION TO MIXING CONSOLES
The main function of a mixing console is to combine different audio inputs and independently adjust the levels
of those contributions to the mix. With this very basic functionality you can control and balance any kind of audio
from a one-man-band to an orchestra.
Most mixers however (including the Signature Series) offer far more than that. A variety of features allow the
operator to shape the mix, and use routing options to provide the additional conveniences used in audio mixing
applications, such as external effects sends, stage monitoring outputs, independant headphone monitoring, and
digital inputs and outputs.
Mix Faders
Faders make it easy to see and adjust relative levels. They allow you to visualise the mix.
Input Choice
All different microphones and instruments are catered for with mic, line, and Hi-Z input types / selections, in-
cluding 48V phantom power for powered (condenser / capacitor) microphones. The gain control allows you to
optimise the input level.
Equalisation
Examples include the high pass filter on an input to reduce unwanted low frequencies, or the three-band EQ
(Equaliser) used for tonal 'shaping' of the source.
Dynamic Processing
This is audio processing that affects amplitude (volume). The Signature console includes a Limiter on selected
channels, which will prevent the input signal going too high, which would in turn cause distortion.
Output options
As well as mixing all the input (source) channel into one Master Stereo output, you can send particular
channels into additional group outputs, or create several different aux (auxiliary) mixes of all channels to send
to an FX (Effects) processor or stage monitor, for example. The headphone output allows the operator to listen
to the whole Main Mix, or to a selection of channels via the Solo System.
Solo / Monitor System
The solo system allows you to listen only to particular channels or busses through the headphones output, so
you can focus on a particular source without changing the mix.
Internal FX
FX (Effects) processing such as reverb, delay, chorus, phasing, and so on can be incorporated into a mixing
console so that you don't have to invest in 'outboard' equipment or use up valuable physical inputs and outputs.
The Signature's Lexicon FX processing can be applied in a controlled manner by using the Auxiliary 3/FX mix
and the dedicated stereo FX return channel.
Digital inputs and outputs.
Digital I/O is necessary to work with digital audio systems and computer-based Digital Audio Workstations.
The Signature series uses a USB interface for either 2-channel input/output (main or Aux 1-2 output), or for
multitrack input and output (MTK versions) with the USB inputs able to individually replace the input channel
source for a flexible 'tape return' path. For example, the MTK functionality could use DAW plug-ins as insert
processing on selected input channels, or you could do a sound check with a dry recording of the band from a
previous gig... There are lots of ways to use this feature.
More Information
You can find out more about individual Signature features by reading the relevant section of this manual.

2.1: INTRODUCTION TO CONSOLES