How to Install a Mixer Device
Many musicians who record at home make use of mixer devices, also known as "control surfaces," to interface with their recording software. A mixer device is equipped with several knobs and faders, exactly as a studio mixing console would be. However, these devices connect to the computer using USB or FireWire cables. This allows them to control recording software directly, eliminating the need to use the mouse and keyboard for many operations. If you record music at home, install a mixer device to make the recording process faster and avoid being hampered by your interface with the computer.
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Instructions
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1
Insert the driver CD for your device and allow the installation program to launch.
Note: these steps describe the installation procedure for the M-Audio ProjectMix I/O mixer device. Most control surfaces are installed in a similar fashion, but the exact menu options shown in the software may differ slightly.
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2
Read the terms that are set forth in the license agreement. Click the "I accept" check box to proceed, then click "Next," and "Install."
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3
Click the drop down menu at the bottom of the window. Select "ProjectMix I/O" and click "Next." M-Audio distributes its hardware drivers under a unified system, so one installation program contains the drivers for several different devices.
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4
Click "Continue Anyway" if you are running Windows XP and you see a message about the driver not having passed Windows Logo Testing. Windows Vista and 7 users may not see this message. When the installation is complete, you will see the red circular M-Audio icon appear in the system tray on the lower right corner of the desktop.
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5
Shut down your computer.
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6
Hook the mixer device up. Connect the FireWire cable to the mixer and to the back of your computer, and connect the power supply to the back of the mixer and to a power outlet. Turn the mixer on and turn the computer on.
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7
Click "No" if you are asked if Windows should look on the Internet for a drive and then select the radio button to have Windows install the drivers for your device automatically. The installation will finish, and your mixer device will be ready to use in the recording software of your choice.
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Tips & Warnings
Always confirm that your recording software is compatible with the mixer device that you intend to purchase before you buy it. For example, the M-Audio ProjectMix I/O works with Pro Tools, Live, Logic, Cubase and SONAR, among other programs.
