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in real-time through the mixing console itself. These are a kind of hybrid mixer / audio interface units because they do have A/D Converters on-board and can output the data directly to your DAW via USB or FireWire interface.Īs a result, you can add effects such as reverb, echo, phaser, delay, etc. Then using different mathematical equations and algorithms, it alters the signal within the digital realm. Instead of physically controlling the electrons through variable resistors (like the analog version) these convert the signal to digital data right off the bat. Just remember that, at least for the analog version of the mixing console, you will need another piece of equipment with A/D Converters in order to record to your computer.Ī common mistake is to assume that a mixing console will provide A/D converters, but unless it has a USB or FireWire output it will not.ĭigital mixer offer the same functionality, but manipulate audio data digitally to change the characteristics of the sound. With the arrival of audio interfaces on the music scene, these are slowing being faded out as a recording tool.Īs a result you may be able to get one at a good discount as someone else makes the transition to the all-audio-interface setup for their studio.
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Rather you would have to use the "Auxiliary Sends" or "Inserts" to provide any signal processing. The downside is that they cannot provide effects processing since the signal exists only as a voltage. One benefit of this is that there is an instant effect when you move a fader knob. There are 2 main types of mixing console you need to be concerned with: Analog and Digital.Īnalog mixers use variable resistors (potentiometers, or pots for short) to physically change the voltages coursing through their electric veins.īy changing the voltages the signal (and therefore the sound it represents) is altered.
Why do i need do i need two pc for home studio software#
They offer a good alternative to using your mouse and keyboard to operate a software based mixer.Īnyway, for those still interested in hearing more about mixers lets move on. If you are a hands on person and want to touch physical knobs and faders, then you may want to check out Control Surfaces. They can be useful in certain instances, but you absolutely can record with just an audio interface. I wish someone would have just told me this years ago.
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You Do Not Need a Mixer to Record Yourself at Home. This last one is out of place with the rest of what we're trying to do here so I'm gonna skip it, but just know that this is another possible use. Case 2 - You have an audio interface with several outputs and want to use a physical mixing console to bring each channel back to the board as you perform your magic during the final mix.Ĭase 3 - You need preamps for a live application.
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