Custom In-Ear Mixes: The Power of Behringer Wing’s Processing Chain

Optimizing In-Ear Mixes: Navigating the Behringer Wing’s Processing Chain

Equipment Links

Behringer Wing
Behringer S32 Stage Snake

Introduction

For live sound engineers and musicians, understanding the processing chain of a mixer like the Behringer Wing and its impact on in-ear monitoring is crucial. This article explores the intricacies of the Wing’s processing chain and how to tailor it for optimal in-ear mixes.

Understanding the Processing Chain

The Behringer Wing offers a robust processing chain for each channel, including a gate, effects processor, EQ, and compressor. This chain can be extended with additional inserts and external processing, like using a wave server for more complex effects.

Balancing Front-of-House and In-Ear Mixes

It’s important to differentiate between the needs of the front-of-house mix and the in-ear mix for performers. For instance, a heavy compressor might be necessary for the main mix but could be undesirable for a vocalist’s in-ear monitor.

Customizing the Tap Point

A key feature of the Behringer Wing is the ability to set a ‘tap point’ in the processing chain. This point determines what part of the processed signal is sent to the in-ear monitors. For example, if a vocalist prefers not to hear the compressed signal, the tap point can be set before the compressor, ensuring a more natural sound in their in-ears.

Adjusting the Processing Order

Another advanced feature of the Wing is the ability to rearrange the order of processing elements. If a performer wants to hear the compression but not the EQ, the order can be adjusted so the compressor precedes the EQ in the chain. The tap point is then set after the compressor and before the EQ.

Considerations for Sound Quality

It’s essential to consider how the order of processing affects sound quality. The sequence of EQ and compression can significantly alter the tonal characteristics of the signal, impacting both the front-of-house and in-ear mixes.

Conclusion

The Behringer Wing’s flexible processing chain allows for precise control over what performers hear in their in-ear monitors. By understanding and manipulating the tap points and processing order, sound engineers can create tailored in-ear mixes that meet the specific needs and preferences of each performer.