Sends/Aux Sends – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Sound Engineering Glossary

I. What are Sends/Aux Sends in Sound Engineering?

In sound engineering, sends, also known as auxiliary sends or aux sends, are used to send a portion of a signal from one channel to another destination. This destination could be an effects processor, a monitor mix, or a subgroup. Sends are typically found on mixing consoles and digital audio workstations (DAWs) and are used to create separate mixes for different purposes.

II. How are Sends/Aux Sends used in a Mixing Console?

In a mixing console, sends are typically controlled by knobs or faders that allow the user to adjust the level of the signal being sent to the destination. The destination could be a physical output on the console, such as a monitor mix for a performer, or it could be a virtual output within the DAW, such as a reverb effect.

Sends can be pre-fader or post-fader, meaning that the level of the signal being sent is either affected by the channel fader or remains constant regardless of the channel fader position. This allows for greater flexibility in creating different mixes for different purposes.

III. What is the Purpose of Sends/Aux Sends in Sound Engineering?

The primary purpose of sends in sound engineering is to create separate mixes for different purposes. For example, a live sound engineer may use sends to create monitor mixes for performers on stage, allowing them to hear themselves and the rest of the band clearly. In a recording studio, sends are often used to send signals to effects processors, such as reverb or delay, to add depth and dimension to the mix.

Sends also allow for greater control over the overall sound of a mix, as they can be used to balance the levels of different elements in the mix without affecting the original signal.

IV. How do Sends/Aux Sends affect the Sound of a Mix?

Sends can have a significant impact on the sound of a mix, as they allow for the addition of effects and processing to individual channels without affecting the original signal. For example, sending a vocal track to a reverb effect can add depth and space to the sound, while sending a drum track to a delay effect can create a sense of movement and rhythm.

By using sends creatively, sound engineers can enhance the overall sound of a mix and create a more dynamic and engaging listening experience for the audience.

V. What are the Different Types of Sends/Aux Sends?

There are several different types of sends that are commonly used in sound engineering. These include pre-fader sends, post-fader sends, and effects sends.

– Pre-fader sends: Pre-fader sends are not affected by the channel fader and remain constant regardless of the fader position. This allows for independent control over the level of the signal being sent.

– Post-fader sends: Post-fader sends are affected by the channel fader and change in level as the fader is adjusted. This can be useful for creating effects that are dynamically linked to the original signal.

– Effects sends: Effects sends are used to send a signal to an effects processor, such as reverb, delay, or chorus. This allows for the addition of processing to individual channels without affecting the original signal.

VI. How can Sends/Aux Sends be Utilized Creatively in Sound Engineering?

Sends can be utilized creatively in sound engineering to enhance the overall sound of a mix and create unique and interesting effects. Some creative uses of sends include:

– Creating ambient effects: Sending a signal to a reverb or delay effect can create a sense of space and depth in the mix, adding a more immersive quality to the sound.

– Parallel processing: Sending a signal to multiple effects processors and blending the processed signal with the original can create a more dynamic and textured sound.

– Creating unique effects: Experimenting with different effects and processing chains on sends can lead to the creation of unique and innovative sounds that set a mix apart from the rest.

By using sends creatively, sound engineers can push the boundaries of traditional mixing techniques and create mixes that are engaging, dynamic, and memorable.