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Drum Fader Layout

Drums are typically the first thing you tackle when building a mix. Trey demonstrates his preferred fader layout for drums that he uses at his church. The layout should be advanced, yet easy for your volunteers to navigate.


Layout Philosophy

The design of your fader layout, specifically for drums, should support advanced capabilities without overwhelming volunteers. The approach to your console’s setup should be versatile.
  • Balance complexity and accessibility to involve volunteers of all skill levels.
  • Retain your console’s feature set while ensuring it’s approachable for less experienced users.

Drum Configuration Strategy

Trey explains his drum setup and emphasizes the need for two layers to handle his drum inputs. His setup provides detailed control over each drum element and grouped elements to enhance the mix’s quality and coherence.
  • Drum groups, such as electronic drums, enable the engineer to make fast changes.
  • Trey organizes it so that his drum inputs on layer two are seldom adjusted while in service.

Grouping and Parallel Compression

Trey explains why drum inputs are grouped in his setup and how he uses parallel compression. This technique allows him to align sound and phase cohesively. For your church, make adjustments intuitively and preserve the kit’s sonic integrity.

Multi-Groups and Fader Management

Streamline your workflow and improve your efficiency with multi-groups and better fader management. Grouping inputs under one fader simplifies control and makes live adjustments quicker and more effective.
  • Multi-groups combine channels with a single fader, optimizing space and speeding up adjustments.
  • Fader management allows for quick, significant mix adjustments without delving into individual settings.

Volunteer Skill Levels

Trey’s approach is presented on a DiGiCo Quantum 338, which has a large fader bank. Ultimately, his approach can apply to any console you may use in your church. Find the best setup that uses the equipment available to you in the most effective way possible. The key is for volunteer teams to be confident in operating the console, regardless of technical expertise.


Gear Used:

  • DiGiCo Quantum 338

Categories

Audio
101