inputmix

Inputmix is a term used to describe the process and practice of combining multiple input signals into one or more mixed outputs. It is central to modern audio engineering and is also used as the name of software modules and tools that implement input routing and mixing. The term encompasses both hardware and software implementations.

In practice, input mixing involves routing sources such as microphones, line-level devices, and digital sources to one or more mix buses. Essential functions include gain control, level matching, panning, equalization, dynamics processing, and effects. Mixing can be performed in analog hardware, in digital consoles, or within software-based digital audio workstations.

Applications include recording studios, live sound, broadcast, and streaming pipelines, as well as interactive media and game audio where input signals must be blended with other sound sources. Real-time inputmix requires careful attention to latency, synchronization, and headroom to prevent clipping and maintain consistent loudness across channels.

Technical considerations include sampling rate and bit depth, channel configuration, routing topology, and panning laws. Common challenges are phase cancellation, latency buildup, and mismatched loudness between sources. Good practice relies on proper gain staging, metering, and testing across devices, input sources, and software environments.

See also: audio mixer, digital audio workstation, bus, gain staging. The term inputmix is sometimes used as a project or module name in some audio software to describe input-bus management.