What is an audio mixing console?

An audio mixing console (also called a mixer, desk, or board) is the central control surface where the audio engineer manages every input and output in the system. Each microphone, instrument, playback source, and audio feed connects to a channel on the console. The engineer adjusts level, EQ, compression, effects, and routing for each channel, then blends them into the main mix that feeds the speakers.

Modern professional consoles are digital, which means they process audio internally using DSP (digital signal processing) rather than analog circuitry. Digital consoles offer scene recall (the ability to save and load complete console settings), extensive built-in effects, flexible routing, and the ability to manage hundreds of channels in a compact footprint. The dominant professional console platforms include DiGiCo, Yamaha, Avid, Allen & Heath, and Midas. 4Wall stocks digital consoles from these manufacturers in its audio rental inventory.