Prefader

Prefader refers to a specific routing relationship in audio mixing where a signal sent from a channel occurs before the channel’s fader is applied. In a prefader (pre-fader) send, the level that goes to an auxiliary bus, effect processor, or cue mix is taken from the input signal prior to the channel fader, so changes to the fader do not affect the sent level.

In most consoles and digital audio workstations, each channel can be routed to one or more auxiliary sends with selectable pre-fader or post-fader options. A prefader path is typically tapped from the signal before the fader, often via a dedicated control or switch labeled pre. This contrasts with post-fader sends, which feed the bus after the fader and therefore follow fader adjustments.

Common uses for prefader sends include creating independent cue mixes for performers, feeding external effects (like reverb or delay) with a constant level regardless of the main mix, and providing a stable monitor or headphone feed. Prefader routing is especially useful in live sound and studio setups where performers need a reliable reference level or where control over what goes to external processors is required.

Compared with postfader sends, prefader sends ensure that fader movements do not alter the sent signal. This can be advantageous for monitoring and effects routing but may require additional attention to overall headroom and balance in the main mix. Some modern consoles offer flexible options that blend pre- and post-fader characteristics for each send.