Editing Mixing console (section)

===Channel input strip===
The channel input strips are usually a bank of identical [[monaural]] or [[stereo]] input channels arranged in columns. Typically, each channel's column contains a number of rotary [[potentiometer]] knobs, buttons, and [[fader (audio engineering)|fader]]s for controlling the [[gain (electronics)|gain]] of the input [[preamplifier]], adjusting the [[Equalization (audio)|equalization]] of the signal on each channel, controlling routing of the input signal to other functional sections, and adjusting the channel's contribution to the overall mix being produced.

The types of inputs that can be plugged into a mixer depend on the intended purpose of the mixer. A mixer intended for a live venue or a recording studio typically has a range of input jacks, such as [[XLR connector]]s for microphones and the outputs from [[DI box]]es, and [[1/4" jack]]s for [[line level]] sources. A [[DJ mixer]] typically has [[RCA connector]] inputs for pre-recorded music being played back on [[turntable]]s or [[CD player]]s, and a single mic input.

Depending on the mixer, a channel may have buttons that enable the audio engineer to reroute the signal to a different output for monitoring purposes, turn on an [[attenuator pad]] (often reducing the signal by 15 or 20&nbsp;dB to prevent [[audio clipping]]), or activate other features, such as a [[high-pass filter]]. Some higher-priced mixers have a [[parametric equalizer]] or a semi-parametric equalizer for one or more of the equalizer frequency bands, often the [[Mid-range speaker|middle range]].

The channel strips are typically numbered so that the audio engineer can identify the different channels. For each channel input, a mixer provides one or more input jacks. On consoles for mid- to large-sized live venues, and sound recording consoles, these input jacks are numbered and consolidated in a [[patch bay]]. On smaller mixers, the input jacks may be mounted on the top panel of the mixer to facilitate the connection and disconnection of inputs during the use of the mixer.

The input strip is usually separated into sections:
* [[Jack (connector)|Input jack]]s
* [[Microphone preamplifier]]s
* [[Equalization (audio)|Equalization]]
* Dynamics processing (e.g. [[dynamic range compression]], [[Noise gate|gating]]), if supported
* Routing, including direct outs, [[auxiliary-send]]s, [[Panning (audio)|panning control]], and subgroup assignments
* Level-control [[Fade (audio engineering)#Fader|faders]] (on small mixers, these may be rotary knobs to save space and cost)

On many consoles, these sections are color-coded for quick identification by the operator. Each signal (e.g., a singer's vocal mic, the signal from an electric bass amp's [[DI box]], etc.) that is plugged into the mixer has its own ''channel''. Depending on the specific mixer, each channel is stereo or monaural. On most mixers, each channel has an [[XLR connector|XLR]] input, and many have [[RCA connector|RCA]] or quarter-inch [[TRS phone connector]] line inputs. The smallest, least expensive mixers may only have one XLR input with the other inputs being line inputs. These can be used by a singer-guitarist or other small acts.

====Basic input controls====
The first knob at the top of an input strip is typically a ''trim'' or ''[[Gain (electronics)|gain]]'' control.  The input/preamp conditions the signal from the external device and this controls the amount of amplification or [[attenuation]] that is applied to the input signal to bring it to a [[nominal level]] for processing. Due to the high gains involved (around +50 [[decibel|dB]], for a microphone), this stage is where most noise and interference is picked up.  [[Balanced]] inputs and connectors, such as XLR or phone connectors that have been specifically wired as balanced lines, reduce interference problems.

A microphone plugged directly into a [[power amplifier]] would not produce an adequate signal level to drive loudspeakers, because the microphone's signal is too weak; the microphone signal needs a [[preamplifier]] to strengthen the signal so that it is strong enough for the power amplifier. For some very strong [[line level]] signals, the signal that is plugged into the mixer may be too strong, and cause [[audio clipping]]. For signals that are too strong, a 15&nbsp;dB or 20&nbsp;dB [[Attenuator (electronics)|pad]] can be used to attenuate the signal. Both preamplifiers and pads, and the controls associated with them, are available in the input section of most mixing consoles.

Audio engineers typically aim at achieving a good ''gain structure'' for each channel. To obtain a good gain structure, engineers usually raise the gain as high as they can before [[audio clipping]] results; this helps to provide the best [[signal-to-noise ratio]].

A mixing console may provide [[Insert (effects processing)|insert]] points after the input gain stage. These provide send and return connections for external processors that only affect an individual channel's signal. Effects that operate on multiple channels connect to auxiliary sends (below).

====Auxiliary send routing====
The ''auxiliary send'' routes a split of the incoming signal to an auxiliary bus, which can then be routed to external devices. ''Auxiliary sends'' can either be pre-fader or post-fader, in that the level of a pre-fader send is set by the ''auxiliary send'' control, whereas post-fade sends depend on the position of the channel fader as well. ''Auxiliary sends'' can send the signal to an external processor such as a reverb, with the return signal routed through another channel or designated auxiliary return. Post-fader sends are normally used in this case. Pre-fade ''auxiliary sends'' can provide a monitor mix to musicians on stage (which they hear through [[Foldback (sound engineering)|monitor speakers]] pointing at the performers or in-ear monitors); this mix is thus independent of the main mix produced by the faders.

[[File:School - Board 2.jpg|thumb|left|upright|Program channels on a radio soundboard]]
Most live radio broadcasting soundboards send audio through ''program'' channels. Most boards have 3-4 program channels, though some have more options.  When a given channel button is selected, the audio will be sent to that device or transmitter.  Program 1 is typically the on-air live feed, or what those listening to the broadcast will hear.  Other program channels may feed one or more computers used for editing or sound playback.  Another program channel may be used to send audio to the talent's headset if they are broadcasting from a remote area.