Insert (Effects Processing) (Paperback)

In audio processing and sound reinforcement, an insert is an access point built into the mixing console, allowing the user to add external line level devices into the signal flow between the microphone preamplifier and the mix bus.Common usages include gating, compressing, equalizing and for reverb effects that are specific to that channel or group. Inserts can be used as an alternate way to route signals such as for multitrack recording output or line level direct input.Inserts can be balanced or unbalanced. Typically, higher-end mixers will have balanced inserts and entry level mixers will have unbalanced inserts. Balanced inserts appear as a pair of jacks, one serving as the Send out from the mixer and the other serving as the Return back to the mixer. Balanced insert jacks can be XLR, TRS or Bantam TT.Unbalanced inserts can also be a pair of jacks such as RCA or 1/4" TS. Again, one jack serves as Send and the other serves as Return.Most modern entry level and medium format mixers use a single TRS jack for both Send and Return. This dual-purpose insert jack only has three conductors, and balanced lines need at least two conductors.