As an audio engineer, I have spent much time trying to achieve a satisfying mix that is at once warm, fat, clear and punchy. Once I had the internet at my fingertips, I slipped down various rabbit holes in search of achieving that perfect mix which, when attained, can give the listener not only a great audio experience, but also a real visceral lift.
One bit of information I thought would be useful to share is the use of subgroups and DCA channels while chasing the visceral mix we are all trying to achieve. VCA and DCAs adjust each channel assigned to it individually rather than adjusting a summed group. If one is doing an input mix — meaning that all the input levels are different to ensure that all the faders are at unity across the board — then the VCA or DCA can be used to increase or decrease the level of the assigned channels.
While subgroups, VCAs and DCAs are just a few of the many tools used to accomplish the mission of a great mix, another piece of essential information I often share with my young engineers is that just because an option is available on a console doesn’t mean one is obliged to use it.
Baker Lee, from “FOH-at-Large,” FRONT of HOUSE, June 2024, page 44
