If you want to improve the quality and clarity of your audio in your video projects, you need to know how to use a mixer. A mixer is a device that allows you to adjust the volume, tone, and effects of different audio sources, such as microphones, music, or sound effects. In this article, you will learn how to use a mixer to balance audio levels and signals in four easy steps.
The first step is to connect your audio sources to the mixer. Depending on the type and number of sources, you may need different cables, adapters, or inputs. For example, if you are using a microphone, you may need an XLR cable and a phantom power supply. If you are using a music player, you may need a 3.5 mm or RCA cable and a stereo input. Make sure you label each cable and input so you can identify them later.
This is quite accurate and a good summary. I would add that my experience is to try and make these connections in a logical manner that takes into account what and where the individual audio signals will be controlled from the Mixer
The second step is to set your gain levels for each audio source. Gain is the amount of amplification or attenuation that the mixer applies to the input signal. You want to set the gain level so that the signal is loud enough to be heard, but not too loud that it causes distortion or clipping. To do this, you can use the meter or LED indicators on the mixer or your headphones. Adjust the gain knob until the signal peaks at around 0 dB or below the red zone.
Proper gain staging is extremely important for sound mixing and recording. With the advent of 32 bit float recording, it can be easy to become complacent with your input gain levels, but it's important to get the best input signal regardless of your preamps and file encoding. NB: The AI generated advice in this article is bad! Do not peak your signal at 0dB. For dialogue you should be peaking around -12dB, to allow for some overhead in case of sudden louder signal. If your input level is too low (e.g. down below -20dB) you will need to boost level later on in post. Increasing volume will also lift the noise floor, which introduces unwanted noise. Always optimise your signal to noise ratio before you hit record.
Also it is useful to use a "trim" feature (if available) to be able to balance the levels correctly but allow for an ideal control position on the mixer For example so that all signals balanced to 0db are set to align with the middle position of a fader control or the center position of a control knob
The third step is to adjust your EQ and effects for each audio source. EQ stands for equalization, which is the process of modifying the frequency response of the signal. You can use the EQ knobs or sliders on the mixer to boost or cut the bass, mid, or treble frequencies of each source. This can help you shape the tone, clarity, and balance of your audio. Effects are additional features that the mixer may offer, such as reverb, delay, or compression. You can use the effects knobs or buttons on the mixer to apply or adjust the effects to each source. This can help you create a more dynamic, creative, or professional sound.
It may also be wise to first consider weather if you are doing more advanced audio mixing with a properly equipped mixer that you evaluate and enable FX busses for better controling and management of the audio combined with the added effects
The final step is to mix your audio sources together. You can use the faders or volume knobs on the mixer to control the output level of each source. You want to balance the levels so that each source is audible, but not overpowering or masking the others. You can also use the pan knobs or buttons on the mixer to adjust the stereo position of each source. You want to create a balanced and natural soundstage that suits your video. You can monitor your mix using headphones or speakers, and make adjustments as needed.
Using a mixer can help you achieve a better audio quality and clarity for your video projects. By following these four steps, you can use a mixer to balance audio levels and signals with ease and confidence.
A nifty tip I've learned is to download a sample of pink noise from youtube or some other source and have it playing while you mix. Slowly bring the level of everything up until you can hear the important parts of each track. When each is audible but not overpowering you can turn the pink noise off and that is a GREAT starting point for intelligibility, especially for vocal heavy projects. The human ear perceives the entire sound spectrum in a way that is very similar to what is represented by pink/brown noise!
Audio is as important as the visuals, sometimes even more. It's not just music, the production level is being defined by things that we subconsciously don't observe as it has been a common part of our daily life. But when these things take place in a video they signal authenticity in our minds and we're much more involved as we feel that the environment the video is building it's more realistic. Small sounds around our environment are necessary. Sit still for a second and observe the sounds around you. An AC, a car horn, the wind, a fly. So much depth, so much to explore.