How to use mixer in FL Studio
Mix like a pro in FL Studio. This tutorial covers how to use the Mixer to balance levels, apply effects, and route audio for a polished sound.
Mixing & Effects · intermediate level
Steps
Open the Mixer
Access the Mixer by clicking the 'Mixer' icon on the toolbar or by pressing 'F9'. This window displays individual tracks (Inserts) for each instrument and audio source, allowing for comprehensive sound shaping and level control.
Assign Channels to Mixer Tracks
In the Channel Rack, select a Channel. In the Channel Settings window, locate the 'Track selector' (a number box) at the top right. Assign a unique Mixer track number (e.g., 1, 2, 3) to each Channel to route its audio to that specific Mixer track. Unassigned channels are routed to the Master by default.
Adjust Levels and Panning
On each Mixer Insert track, use the vertical fader to adjust the volume level of the assigned channels. The pan knob above the fader controls the stereo position (left/right) of the sound. Aim for a balanced mix where all elements are audible and sit well together.
Add Insert Effects
In the FX slots section on the right side of a selected Mixer track, click an empty slot to open the plugin selector. Choose an effect like 'Fruity Parametric EQ 2' for frequency shaping or 'Fruity Reeverb 2' for spatialization. Effects applied here only affect the audio passing through that specific track.
Utilize Send/Return Effects
For effects like reverb or delay that you want to share across multiple tracks, assign them to a dedicated Send track (e.g., Insert 5). Then, on other Mixer tracks, right-click the small routing arrow at the bottom of the track and drag upwards towards the Send track's input to send a portion of their signal to that shared effect.