On an analog mixer if you insert the plug all the way to the second click in the insert jack, you will still get a direct out signal, but the signal in the channel will be interrupted at that point - removed from the mix. This will route the direct out signal via the cable, without interrupting the signal flow in the mixer. Push the phone plug part into the insert jack, just to the first click. This can be done at the mixer end of your direct out cable, you'll want a standard 1/4' mono (or TS, tip/sleeve) phone plug.

You can use each insert to send a “direct out” signal to a line-level input of a recording device, or to another mixer for a broadcast or recording feed. Just because you're sending something out doesn't mean you have to bring it back. Like a post-mic preamp (head amp), but pre low-cut or hi-cut filter, mute, EQ, fader, etc. Reducing the number of mics that are on, or “open”, reduces the risk of feedback sound and improves your signal-to-noise ratio. You might send the signal to a noise gate to automatically “turn off” a mic when it's not in use. Since an insert is both an input and an output, you can route the signal from the channel out to a reverb, compressor, limiter, etc., and then back into the channel. Typical Uses for Inserts in Your Workflow Apply Effects to a Channel or Mix Most digital mixers must be routed to a physical analog jack on the back of the audio console or to a digital external device like a computer or effects rack like the Waves SoundGrid. On most analog mixers, a single ¼” three-conductor jack provides connections for both an input and an output. In other words, it allows you to “insert” an outboard (external) or virtual (internal or digital) device into the signal path. It is a point in the signal path at which the signal can be sent out of the channel or mix and then returned to its signal path at the same point it left, creating a signal loop. On a digital console, it is typically accomplished internally in the virtual portion of the audio console. The insert serves simultaneously as both an input and an output for either a single channel or for some other signal path, such as a submix or main output bus. We are here today to demystify the channel insert functionality of your audio mixing console.

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