monitormix

Monitormix is the term used in audio production for the mix that is sent to a performer's stage monitoring system, such as floor wedges or in-ear monitors. It is separate from the front-of-house (FOH) mix and is tailored to the performer’s listening needs, typically emphasizing vocal intelligibility and the balance of the band or ensemble from the performer’s perspective.

In traditional setups, the monitormix is derived from the main mix using one or more auxiliary sends on a mixing console. Each performer may have control over their own monitor level, and in some cases users can adjust equalization, effects sends, and instrument balance within the monitor path. Modern applications commonly use dedicated monitor mixers or digital consoles with individual monitor buses, and there are personal monitor systems that allow listeners to adjust their own mix via a small, portable device or app. Most systems connect to wireless or wired in-ear monitors (IEMs) or stage wedges.

Key features include low-latency audio, simple user interfaces, talkback channels to communicate with the stage, mute/solo controls, and the ability to assign different monitor mixes to multiple performers or groups. Digital systems frequently use DSP to manage EQ, compression, and noise reduction within the monitor path, and may provide networked control for on-site or remote engineers.

Uses range from live concerts and theatre productions to broadcast and studio rehearsals. The monitormix concept has evolved from analog foldback monitors to sophisticated personal-monitoring ecosystems enabled by digital consoles, wireless technologies, and flexible control workflows.