An audio fader is a type of control found on an audio mixer that adjusts the volume of an audio signal. It typically consists of a sliding lever or knob that can be moved up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
Audio faders are an essential part of an audio mixer, as they allow you to control the volume of individual audio channels and the overall mix.
How To Use An Audio Fader?
To use an audio fader on a mixer, locate the fader for the channel you want to adjust and move the sliding lever or knob up or down to increase or decrease the volume. The fader typically has markings or numbers that indicate the volume level so that you can adjust it to the desired level with precision. Some faders also have a center detent, a notch or indentation in the middle of the fader’s range that indicates the fader’s default, zero, or unity position.
In addition to controlling the volume of individual channels, audio faders on a mixer can also be used for creative purposes. For example, you can use the faders to fade in a track by slowly increasing its volume or fade out a track by gradually decreasing its volume. This can create a smooth and seamless transition between tracks, which is essential for creating a professional-sounding mix.
Audio faders on a mixer are often used with other audio controls, such as EQ knobs and effects buttons, to create a more dynamic and polished sound. For example, you can use the fader to adjust the volume of a specific frequency range or to apply an effect such as reverb or delay to a track. By combining the fader with these other controls, you can create a wide range of sounds and effects that add depth and complexity to your mix.
Related: How To Setup A Sound System
What Is A Flying Fader?
On a digital audio mixer, a flying fader is a type of audio fader that is controlled by a motor. This allows the fader to move automatically and smoothly, without any physical interference from an audio engineer.
You can move the fader yourself, but you can also have the mixer move the fader to a previously saved position for you.
This allows an audio engineer to quickly recall fader positions for different outputs, songs, or arrangements as necessary. It also allows you to have “pages” of faders to control more channels without extending the physical size of your audio mixer.
Note: Flying faders are used frequently with lighting consoles as well.
Related: What does a pad button do?
Audio Faders For DJs
Audio faders are an essential part of a DJ’s setup, as they allow the DJ to smoothly transition between different tracks and control the overall volume of the mix.
On a DJ controller, a fader can be used to:
- Crossfade between songs
- Adjust the speed of a track
- Adjust the volume of a track
Related: How To Connect DJ Controller To Speakers
Audio Fader FAQs
What does an audio fader do?
An audio fader is used to adjust the volume of input on an audio mixer. You can adjust an audio fader by sliding it up and down.
What does a fader do in mixing?
An audio fader can adjust the volume of an input on an audio console. You can use the audio fader to mix your volumes to set your audio mix correctly.
Does a fader control volume?
A fader can control the volume on an audio mixer, it can adjust the crossfade on a DJ controller, or it can adjust lighting levels on a lighting console.
Where should fader be?
If your gain is set correctly on your audio mixer, your fader should be set at 0dB, which is also known as unity. This is how you will get the cleanest audio.
Final Thoughts
Audio faders are a versatile and essential part of an audio mixer, allowing you to control the volume of individual channels and the overall mix. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, mastering the use of the fader is an important skill that can take your mixing to the next level.
