Mixing Desks

PRE - 1950s
Before the 1950s, most ensembles/bands/groups were simply recorded with a single
microphone. For multiple microphones, a technique known as passive mixing (a technique where
you simply mix signals without signal processing or editing) was implemented. Then this was
simply recorded onto a mono, and later stereo, tape, leaving very little room for
improvements/changes.
Preamps were used to adjust the levels of each track in the mix, and with the use of valve
technology, the preamps were huge in size. Furthermore, passive mixing was achieved simply by
passing the signals through pre-amps and then through resistors, which were connected together
and combined to make one complex signal, or the end result.
1950s
Mixing could now be achieved with a mixing desk which was used mostly for film,
broadcasting and main recording. Still passive mixing, but panning was introduced, and individual
signals could now be turned up and down for better balance. Signal levels could only be adjusted
with large wheels or dials, which were difficult to turn, and still using valve technology.
1960s
Introduction of the embryonic version of the fader the Quadrant Fader which was used
to adjust the levels of signals in a mix, and was the first official version of the linear (up and down)
fader as we know it. The fader would be pushed up and down up from an arc of around 90 degrees.
Later through the 60s, the classic fader as we know it today appeared which could be operated
with one finger.
Mixing as we know it also appeared as we know it today when the first multitrack tape
recorders emerged. Usually around 4-8 track recorders were used at around this time, and a classic
example (which you should remember) would be the Studer J37 4-track recorder, which was used
to produce the infamous Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band. This album was an iconic album,
and should be listened to if you havent already.
1970s
Mixing desks became much more complicated, with parametric EQs, group outputs (where
a number of tracks could be linked together into a separate [stereo] track) and aux sends/returns.
Early automation was invented using VCAs (voltage controlled amplifiers); meaning volumes of
tracks could be varied automatically.
The audio company, Neve, produced the first automation-controlled devices using
timecodes and computer controls during the mid-70s, which was known as NECAM (Neve
computer assisted mixdown). Important mixing desk companies included AMS Neve, Solid
State Logic and Soundcraft.
1980s
Further developments on automation were made, with the invention of the SSL 4000. This
mixing desk was one of the first to include compressors onto the bus tracks, with compressors on
each track, and helped to contribute to the sound of the 80s music scene. Flying faders was also
the name given to the technology used in automated fader action, causing faders to move by
themselves. Also, total recall came into fruition where the settings on mixing desks could be
stored, so when returning to mixing sessions, the settings could be remembered by the mixing
desks.
1990s
Digital mixing desks gradually became more popular during this time, and many studios
started moving from analogue to digital. Computers replaced tape machines, in many home
studios, and when DAWs became more and more popular with professional studios, also with the
Apple PowerMac finally offered enough power for pro audio engineers to produce pro-standard
music on computers.

2000s
After 90s, many amateur musicians started to record music themselves, when DAW
systems became less expensive and more powerful. As a consequence, many studios began to
close and then a lot of high end consoles were sold to the second-hand market for a low price, with
the production of mixing desks diminishing rapidly.

RECAP
Pre 1950s

Often 1 microphone
Passive mixing used for multiple mics
Valve technology
Pre-amps were large
1950s

Still passive mixing

Mixing desks used for films, broadcasting and main recording
1960s

Quadrant fader
Classic fader invented
Studer J37 4-track recorder (Beatles Album)
4-8 track recorders
Mixing as we know it emerged during this time
1970s

Mixing desks becoming more complex

Parametric EQs, group outputs and AUX sends/returns
Audio company AMS Neve produced first automation, known as
NECAM
AMS Neve, SSL (Solid State Logic) and Soundcraft building mixing
consoles
1980s

Further development on automation

SSL 400, with compressors on each track, advanced mixing desk,
shaping sound of 80s
Total recall
Flying faders
1990s

Digital mixing more prominent

DAWs became more prominent
Apple PowerMac being implemented in pro-studios
Pro standard music being produced on computers for first time
2000s

Amateur musicians able to record music themselves to a

professional standard, with the use of DAWs
DAWs more powerful and less expensive than ever
Mixing desks put on second had market for cheap prices
Production of mixing desks diminishing
Analogue and digital mixing desks still widely used today