Send – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary

What is a send in audio software?

In audio software, a send is a feature that allows users to route a copy of a signal from one track to another track or bus. Sends are commonly used in audio mixing to apply effects, such as reverb or delay, to specific tracks without affecting the original signal. Sends are also known as auxiliary sends or aux sends.

How do sends work in audio mixing?

Sends work by sending a portion of the signal from one track to another track or bus. This allows users to apply effects to the sent signal without affecting the original signal. Sends can be adjusted to control the amount of signal being sent, as well as the level of the effect being applied. Sends are typically used to create a sense of depth and space in audio mixes.

What is the difference between a send and an insert in audio software?

The main difference between a send and an insert in audio software is how they affect the original signal. Inserts apply effects directly to the signal on the track they are inserted on, while sends route a copy of the signal to another track or bus where effects can be applied. Inserts are used to directly alter the original signal, while sends are used to create parallel processing effects.

How can sends be used creatively in audio production?

Sends can be used creatively in audio production to add depth, space, and dimension to mixes. By sending signals to different tracks or buses, users can apply different effects to create unique sounds. Sends can also be used to create ambient effects, such as reverb or delay, to enhance the overall sound of a mix. Additionally, sends can be used to create parallel processing effects, such as parallel compression, to add punch and clarity to tracks.

What are some common uses for sends in audio mixing?

Some common uses for sends in audio mixing include adding reverb or delay to vocals, creating a sense of space and depth in a mix, adding parallel compression to drums or vocals, and creating ambient effects for instruments. Sends can also be used to apply effects to multiple tracks simultaneously, such as adding a touch of reverb to a group of tracks to glue them together in a mix.

How do you set up sends in popular audio software programs?

Setting up sends in popular audio software programs is typically a straightforward process. In most software programs, users can create sends by selecting a track, choosing the send option, and then routing the signal to another track or bus. Users can then adjust the send level to control the amount of signal being sent, as well as the level of the effect being applied. Popular audio software programs, such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live, all have built-in send features that make it easy to set up and use sends in audio mixing.