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Mixing Desks

Our range of mixing desks runs from compact four channel units for a duo to rack mounting and multi-zone models for venues and installations. A mixer is where every microphone, instrument and playback source meets, so the channel count and the quality of the preamps matter more than almost anything else in the signal chain. Found it cheaper elsewhere? We will match the price.

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How many channels do you need?

Count every source that needs its own level control, then allow room to grow. A solo act with a microphone and a backing track needs four channels. A four piece band with drum microphones will use twelve or more, and a function band running in-ear monitors wants more still. Note that channel counts are often quoted as a total including stereo pairs, so a desk described as sixteen channel may offer only ten microphone preamps. Read the mono microphone input count rather than the headline figure.

Compact, rack or powered?

A compact desk sits on a table and suits mobile use where space and weight matter. A rack mounting mixer bolts into a case or a cupboard, which is what installations and permanent stage setups want, and it keeps the controls out of reach of the public. A powered mixer folds the amplifier into the same box, which halves what you carry to a small gig, though it limits your options later since you cannot upgrade the amplifier independently.

Preamps, phantom power and gain

The microphone preamp is where quality is won or lost, because everything after it inherits its noise. Check that phantom power is available on the channels you need it for, and whether it is switchable per channel or globally, since a global switch means it goes to every input at once. Set the gain with the channel fader at its normal position, aiming for a healthy signal on the meter with the loudest passage still below the top, then leave it alone.

EQ, aux sends and effects

Three band EQ is enough for most live work, and a sweepable mid is worth having because it lets you find and remove the specific frequency that is ringing rather than dulling the whole channel. Aux sends feed monitors and effects, so count how many separate mixes you need: one for a monitor wedge, another for in-ears, another for a reverb. Built-in effects save carrying a rack, though dedicated units give more control.

Multi-zone mixers for installations

A multi-zone mixer sends different sources at different levels to different areas, which is what a pub with a garden or a shop with a stockroom actually needs. Look for priority or override on a microphone input so a page ducks the music automatically, and check whether zone levels can be set locally with a wall plate rather than only at the rack.

Connecting to the rest of the system

Use balanced XLR or TRS jack connections for anything running more than a few metres, since unbalanced cable collects hum. Keep signal cable away from mains and lighting cable, and cross rather than run parallel where they must meet. If you are feeding a powered speaker or an amplifier, check whether its input expects line level or a microphone signal before turning anything up.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many channels do I need?
Count every source needing its own level control and allow room to grow. A solo act needs four, a four piece band with drum mics needs twelve or more. Check the mono microphone input count rather than the headline figure, since totals often include stereo pairs.

What is a powered mixer?
A mixer with the amplifier built into the same box, so it drives passive speakers directly. It halves what you carry to a small gig, but you cannot upgrade the amplifier separately later.

Do I need phantom power?
Only for condenser microphones, which need 48V to work. Check whether the desk switches it per channel or globally, because a global switch sends it to every input at once. Dynamic microphones neither need it nor are harmed by it.

How do I set the gain correctly?
Put the channel fader at its normal position, then raise the gain until the loudest passage reads healthily on the meter without approaching the top. Set it once and adjust the fader thereafter, rather than riding the gain.

What are aux sends for?
Creating additional mixes independent of the main output, typically for a monitor wedge, in-ear monitors or an effects unit. Count how many separate mixes you need before choosing a desk, since aux count is hard to work around later.

Why does my mixer hum?
Usually unbalanced cable over a long run, or a ground loop between devices on different circuits. Use balanced XLR or TRS connections, keep signal cable away from mains and lighting cable, and cross rather than run alongside where they must meet.

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