Alesis MultiMix12USB, Reference Manual

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Glossary
35
Here are the definitions to some terms you’ll probably encounter
while using your Multimix USB.
Term Definition
aux (auxiliary) An additional set of outputs and inputs found on many mixers. These
allow the addition of external effects and other audio sources.
balance A control that lets you control the position of sound in a stereo signal by
altering the relative levels of the left and right channels.
bus The electrical component that carries signals from multiple sources to a
single destination such as an amplifier.
channel A path through which an audio signal flows.
channel strip A section of a mixer on which reside controls like a fader, EQ and pan
for manipulating the signal of an input channel.
clipping The cutting of an audio signal caused by a level that is too great for a
mixer circuit to handle.
codec Compression/decompression algorithm. Different CODECs are used
by different digital audio devices and file formats.
condenser
microphone
A type of high-quality microphone that produces a weak signal, usually
requiring an external power source like the ones provided by your
Multimix’s XLR mic inputs.
dB (decibel) A common unit of measure for audio.
detent A point of resistance in the path that a mixer knob or fader travels.
Detents are used to mark important settings. As you turn the knob or
slide the fader, you’ll feel it “click” into the detent.
dry Term used to describe an audio signal free of effects. The opposite of
“wet.”
dynamic
microphone
A common type of microphone that does not require external power.
Dynamic microphones are generally cheaper than condenser
microphones.
effects processor A unit whose purpose is to provide effects for audio signals. Some
common effects include reverb, chorus, flange and delay. Effects
processors come in many shapes and sizes, from small pedals up to
rectangular rackmount units.
EQ (equalizer) The part of your mixer (or other device) that manipulates an audio signal
by lowering the level of some frequencies and increasing the levels of
others. EQ is used to fine-tune a signal’s highs and lows.
Glossary
36
fader A device that allows you to control the level of an audio signal by sliding
the fader up and down a straight path. Each input channel of the
Multimix has its own fader, and so do the MAIN MIX and ALT 3/4.
gain The measure of extra amplification applied to an audio signal. Channels
1 – 4 on your Multimix have gain controls, which are useful for boosting
mic and line signals.
level The amount of power driving an audio signal. The most common
names given to levels of varying voltage are, from lowest to highest,
microphone level, instrument level and line level.
master section The section of a mixer where the main mix is controlled.
mic preamp An amplifier that boosts a microphone-level signal up to line level.
mixer A device whose purpose is to combine and output a number of audio
signals, allowing various types of signal manipulation.
mono (monaural) Refers to an audio signal that has only one channel. The opposite of
stereo.
pan A control that lets you position a mono signal within the stereo spectrum
by altering the level of the signal being sent to the left channel as
opposed to the right.
phantom power A way of providing power to condenser microphones. Called
“phantom” because the power isn’t apparent to dynamic microphones
when you connect them to an input that provides phantom power.
post-fader Describes an aux send that sends a signal that already has passed through
the channel fader.
pre-fader Describes an aux send that sends a signal that has not passed through the
channel fader.
return A line input whose function is to carry back to the mixer an audio signal
that has been sent from the mixer. Usually used in the application of
effects.
send A line output whose function is to send a signal from the mixer to an
external device, usually an effects processor.
stereo Refers to an audio signal that has two channels.
unity gain Refers to the setting of an audio channel at which the signal leaves the
channel at the same level at which it entered. Unity gain is marked by a 0
on the Multimix’s faders.
wet An audio signal that has had effects or other manipulations applied. The