In this blog post, we will explore the functionality of the Alt 3/4 feature on Behringer Xenyx audio mixers, as explained in our YouTube video above. The Alt 3/4 feature might seem puzzling at first, but we will explain its workings and explore potential use cases for this unique audio routing capability.
Quick Answer: Alt 3-4 is where all of your channels go when you press the mute button. This creates a separate output with everything that is muted from the main stereo output.
Exploring the Alt 3/4 Feature
The Alt 3/4 feature on the Behringer Xenyx audio mixer serves a specific purpose in audio routing. When you mute an input channel, it is taken out of the main stereo mix and redirected to the Alt 3/4 mix. This allows for the routing of muted microphones, providing flexibility in your setup.
Back Panel Configuration
Taking a closer look at the back panel of the audio mixer, we find the Alt 3-4 output alongside the main stereo outputs. The Alt 3/4 output serves as a dedicated output for muted microphones, separating them from the main mix and enabling customized routing options.
Control Room Output
Additionally, the Behringer Xenyx audio mixers have a control room output which offers custom routing. Users can create bespoke output configurations by including the two-track, Alt 3/4, and main mix outputs in their control room setup, tailoring their audio monitoring experience.
Potential Use Cases
While the Alt 3/4 routing may initially seem like an odd feature, there are various scenarios where this unique routing capability can be leveraged effectively.
- Multi-Track Recording: For multi-track recording setups, the Alt 3/4 feature allows for individual microphone routing. By muting and panning microphones in the main mix while sending others to Alt 3/4, users can output 4 different channels at the same time using the Main Mix and Alt 3-4 Outputs.
- Podcast Production: In podcasting scenarios with multiple participants, routing Alt 3/4 to participants’ headphones can create a discrete communication channel. This setup enables behind-the-scenes interaction without affecting the main recording, streamlining podcast production.
- Click Track Isolation: In musical settings, the Alt 3/4 output can be utilized to provide a click track exclusively to a drummer. By muting the click track from the main mix and routing it to the drummer’s headphones, precise synchronization can be achieved without interfering with the live sound.
Final Thoughts
The Alt 3/4 feature on Behringer Xenyx audio mixers offers a unique approach to audio routing, allowing for customized channel management and creative applications in various audio production scenarios.
While the feature may seem unconventional compared to other mixer designs, exploring its potential applications can unveil innovative solutions for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Behringer Xenyx Alt 3-4 Pricing
- Behringer Xenyx Q1204: https://currentprice.io/q1204usb
- Rode NTH-100 Headphones: https://currentprice.io/nth-100
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm: http://currentprice.io/psa1_plus
- Quality Acoustic Treatment Panels: http://currentprice.io/soundpanels
