The whole cast is here! Join Gary, Laura (and me) as we discuss a piece of gear that gives broadcast function to your recording mixer.

From the unassuming name and look of this device, it could easily be overlooked.

Switched audio and muting is a broadcast feature that I truly miss while using recording style mixers. This little device can bridge the gap between big dollar radio consoles and inexpensive mixers.

A fader should have an on/off button. When the mic fader is “hot”, or on, a few things should happen. The control room or studio speaker/monitors are automatically muted and an “on-air” light illuminates.

Optionally, we can “skim” just the parts of our program where the mic is “hot” to review our show or just archive the parts of our show where the mic is open.

This becomes very important once you use it. For example, your Podcast is music oriented. You can leave your monitors on with the mic fader at full audio (or unity gain.) A few seconds before the song stops, you tap the large button on the Broadcast Tools CCIIA for mic1. Immediately, your studio speakers are muted and you’re monitoring the music in your headphones. The mic is now hot as well. Once you are done announcing the next sound or doing what used to be called a “stop set”, you tap the same button. Your music once again comes to life on the studio monitors and your mic audio is muted, even if the fader is still up.

This is one of those items that gives a broadcast feel to a recording piece of gear.

Street Price: $299

Best,
MarkJensen & Laura

Filed under: Podcasts