Yamaha MG32/14FX and MG24/14FX Mixer Tutorial - Part 1

Yamaha MG 2414 FX and MG 3214 FX Mixer Overview

Introduction to the Mixers

• Kelvin introduces a tutorial on the Yamaha MG 2414 FX and MG 3214 FX mixers, highlighting their similar setup and layout.

• The video aims to explain the functions of all buttons and knobs on these consoles.

Mixer Structure

• The mixer is divided into two main sections: input (channel) session and master (output) session.

• It features a built-in effects processor, which is crucial for sound manipulation.

Input Channels

• There are two types of inputs: mic/mono inputs (channels 1-16) and stereo input channels (17-24).

• Phantom power switches provide 48 volts to eight channels for condenser microphones or active DI boxes.

Channel Strip Features

Pad Switch and Gain Control

• The pad switch attenuates the input signal by 26 dB, preventing clipping from overly hot signals.

• The gain knob adjusts the signal level; further resources on using gain are available in another video.

High Pass Filter and EQ

• A high pass filter at 80 Hz cleans up signals by cutting frequencies below this threshold, essential for non-bass instruments.

• The three-band EQ includes semi-parametric mid control, allowing frequency adjustments between 250 Hz to 5 kHz.

Auxiliary Sends

Pre/Post Fader Configuration

• Auxiliary knobs allow channel strip signals to be assigned to different auxiliary buses (aux 1 to aux 4), with pre/post fader options.

• Pre-fader settings ensure that monitor mixes remain unaffected by fader adjustments, critical for live performances.

Effects Processing

• Knobs labeled "effects one" and "effects two" can send signals either to internal effects or external processors based on button configuration.

Panning and Signal Flow

Pan Control

• The pan knob directs audio signals left or right in stereo output or assigns them to specific groups within the mixer.

Channel Operation Indicators

• A channel on switch illuminates when active; a PFL switch allows monitoring through headphones without affecting output levels.

Monitoring Signals

Peak Indicators

• Peak indicators show signal presence in channel strips; they blink according to signal strength but illuminate steadily during overload conditions.

Assigning Signals

• Assign switches route signals from channels to group outputs or stereo master outputs, facilitating flexible mixing options.

Stereo Channel Differences

Unique Features of Stereo Channels

Mixer Overview and Functionality

Channel Strip Features

• The mixer lacks parametric EQ, featuring fixed frequency boosts instead. Auxiliary effects knobs are labeled as balance but function similarly to pan knobs in stereo channels.

• Two stereo returns allow for sending mix signals from external effects processors back to the mixer, with knobs used to route these signals to various output buses.

• PFL (Pre-Fader Listen) buttons enable monitoring of signal levels and wet signals through headphones, essential for managing incoming effects.

Internal Effects Processor

• Each internal effects processor includes 16 built-in programs; a rotary control selects the desired effect while a parameter knob adjusts specific aspects like reverb length or delay time.

• Experimentation with different effects is encouraged to find suitable settings for various venues, enhancing sound quality based on performance needs.

Master Session Controls

• The auxiliary master controls manage send levels for auxiliary and effects buses, ensuring all signals sent from channel strips can be adjusted collectively.

• AFL (After-Fader Listen) buttons monitor output bus signals directly through headphones, similar to PFL but focused on post-fader outputs.

Additional Inputs and Communication Features

• A two-track input allows connection of devices like DVD players using unbalanced RCA connectors; it features a single control for monitoring via the stereo master.

• A built-in talkback microphone facilitates communication between the sound engineer and musicians or PA systems, with volume control available for effective management.

Group Buses and Stereo Master Control

• Group buses one to four have faders for master volume control; AFL switches function similarly to those on auxiliary buses, allowing grouped signal management.

Yamaha MG2414FX and MG3214FX Overview

Stereo Mix Control Features

• The Yamaha MG2414FX features a stereo mix controlled by a knob instead of a fader, allowing for precise adjustments.

• The signal output from the SD sub out is identical to that of the stereo master bus, ensuring consistency in audio quality.

• An RCA output labeled "wreck rs ec out" provides a duplicate of the stereo signal for additional connectivity options.

Mono Output and Low-Pass Filter

• The mono bus outputs a combined signal from both left and right channels, effectively summing them into one mono output.

• A built-in AFL (After Fader Listen) button allows users to monitor the mono output effectively.

• This mono output can serve as a subwoofer feed due to its integrated low-pass filter, which is adjustable between 80 Hz and 120 Hz.

Headphone Output Functionality

• The mixer includes a headphone jack with an adjustable level control knob, providing flexibility for monitoring audio directly.