What Is a Matrix Mixer?

What is a matrix mixer? A matrix mixer is a device used in electronic audio to route multiple inputs to multiple outputs.

What Is a Matrix Mixer?

They are designed to allow you to control which inputs are directed into which outputs. Many models also allow you to control the level of sound communicated between each input and output.

Essentially, a matrix mixer is a type of mixer inception. They are used frequently to do one of two things:

1. Create multiple mixes and allowing for experimentation
2. Create layered audio that sends different sounds to different speakers for a three-dimensional effect

Due to the number of uses in professional audio and film, matrix mixers are found in many professional audio setups.

How Is a Matrix Mixer Designed?

The exact design of your matrix mixer will depend on the AV systems manufacturer. With that said, they do have a number of standard features.

The matrix itself is essentially a grid of inputs and outputs. In addition to this basic matrix, you will often have faders and potentiometers. The faders help control output level and the potentiometers control input level.

Together, these features allow you to decide which inputs will be expressed through which outputs as well as the level of sound for each individual input and output. The technology is decades old with notable modern improvements, but a matrix mixer opens up a world of possibilities for blending sounds.

What Does a Modern Matrix Mixer Look Like?

Modern matrix mixers look a lot like older ones. Today, they’re smaller and use digital technology to ensure more precision and a wider variety of functionality. One example of a modern matrix mixer is the HDBaseT Matrix.

This matrix mixer offers professional quality for large venues and in the comfort of your own home. It features 8 HDMI inputs, 6 HDBaseT outputs, and 2 local HDMI output switches.

While the typical inputs and outputs work in the way you would expect, those last two HDMI output switches help to increase the versatility of your equipment by extending HDR and Dolby Vision to multiple zones.

Potential Applications for Matrix Mixers

A matrix mixer is an incredibly diverse piece of machinery. Professional-grade matrix mixers are often used in the production of major films, world-class albums, and live performances of the visual arts. However, they are not only used in the celebration of the power of sound.

Matrix mixers can be used to enhance religious services, improve communication at large town hall meetings, and even just make your home theater setup truly legendary. Any place, event, or piece of audio that could benefit from layering sounds or pumping them into a space at different locations can benefit from the use of a matrix mixer.

Finding the Right Matrix Mixer for You

You can find a fairly straightforward matrix mixer at pretty much any audiovisual equipment retailer. Just keep in mind that they aren’t all the same quality. In order to have the best experience with your matrix mixer, it is better to find the machine best suited for your intended purpose.

Of course, it can be difficult to find the exact piece of machinery you need if you’re new to matrix mixers. If that’s your situation, you should consider going to a store that specializes in audio equipment. Talk to knowledgeable staff about what you’re trying to achieve, and together you can find the best tool for your purpose and your budget.

To learn more about matrix mixers and audio equipment, contact the team at Kanex Pro.