Ch1	Ch2	Ch3	Ch4	Ch5	Effect sends		Main Outs
Mic	Mic	Mic	Mic	Mic	Aux1	Aux 2	Left	Right
Line in	Line in	Line in	Line in	Line in			Alternative outs
					Effect returns
Insert	Insert	Insert	Insert	Insert	Aux1	Aux 2	Mono Sum

Basic Mixing Desk - sockets

Mic sockets attach to a small amplifier called a pre-amp. This takes the weak signal from the microphone and amplifies it before sending it on to the Gain/Trim knob on the channel. The pre-am is necessary so that the weak microphone signal can be mixed with the other instruments.

Line in sockets are the main inputs used for electronic instruments. In pianobars, all keyboards and drum machines should be plugged into these sockets (not the insert sockets). These are connected directly to the Gain/Trim controls on the Channels on the front of the desk.

Insert sockets (also known as ‘channel inserts’ and often labelled ‘ins’) are used when a special effects are added to the signal. Not normally used in pianobars.

Effect sends, or aux sends send out the aux bus mix. These sockets are usually connected to the input of reverb units and/or monitor speakers.

Effect returns. These sockets connect directly to the effect return knobs on the master section of the desk. After this, they get passed directly on to the main mix (main outs) without any further processing.

Alternative outs usually provide a stereo copy of the main outs.