Tablet Mixing Control: Remote Operation for Digital Mixers

Tablet mixing control enables engineers to adjust digital mixers wirelessly while walking the venue. This mobility transforms mixing from a fixed-position activity to a dynamic process where engineers hear what audiences hear. Modern digital mixers from major manufacturers support tablet control as standard functionality.

The Value of Mobile Mixing

Fixed mix positions provide limited perspective. The sound at FOH differs from what audiences hear elsewhere in the venue. Coverage variations, reflections, and distance all affect sound at different positions.

Walking the room while mixing reveals these variations. Adjustments made while standing in the audience ensure the mix works for actual listeners.

Monitor mixing benefits particularly from mobility. Standing next to a performer while adjusting their monitor provides direct feedback about what they experience.

Network Configuration

Tablet control requires WiFi connection between tablet and mixer. Most digital mixers include Ethernet ports that connect to wireless routers.

A dedicated router for mixing control avoids problems with venue WiFi. Network congestion, security restrictions, and reliability issues on shared networks can interrupt mixing.

Configure the router with a consistent network name and password. The tablet should connect automatically upon power-up.

Static IP addresses for the mixer prevent connection problems from changing addresses. Configure both mixer and router with fixed IP settings.

Router Selection and Positioning

Quality routers with good wireless performance provide reliable control. Consumer routers work for simple applications; professional models suit demanding environments.

5 GHz WiFi generally performs better than 2.4 GHz in RF-crowded environments. Less interference from other devices improves reliability.

Router position affects coverage. Place the router where it has line of sight to mixing positions and maintains coverage throughout the mixing area.

External antennas can improve range for large venues. Directional antennas focus coverage where needed.

App Selection

Manufacturer apps provide control designed for specific consoles. These typically offer comprehensive access to mixer functions.

Behringer and Midas use X32 Edit, X32 Mix, and similar apps for their digital consoles. Multiple interface options suit different preferences.

Allen & Heath offers dLive MixPad, SQ MixPad, and other platform-specific apps. Touch-optimized design provides intuitive operation.

Yamaha provides apps for TF, CL, QL, and other series. The apps match each platform’s feature set.

Mixing Station provides third-party control for multiple console brands. A single interface across different consoles simplifies learning for multi-console users.

iPad vs Android Tablets

iPad tablets run iOS apps with generally polished interfaces and reliable performance. Many manufacturer apps are developed first for iOS.

Android tablets offer more hardware variety and often lower prices. App availability and quality varies more than iOS.

Screen size affects usability. Larger tablets provide more workspace; smaller tablets are more portable.

Battery life should accommodate entire events. External batteries or charging access provides backup.

Workflow Optimization

Configure the tablet interface for efficient operation. Put frequently used controls on the main screen; organize less-used functions in logical locations.

Create custom fader layers grouping channels used together. Quick access to vocals on one layer, drums on another speeds operation.

Learn gesture shortcuts if the app supports them. Swipes, double-taps, and other gestures can speed common operations.

Limitations of Tablet Control

Latency between touch and response varies by network conditions. Well-configured networks provide essentially instantaneous response; poor networks cause frustrating lag.

Touch interfaces lack the tactile feedback of physical faders. Moving multiple faders simultaneously is more difficult on touchscreens.

Visual limitations on smaller screens reduce overview compared to large console surfaces. Scrolling and layer switching compensate but add steps.

Relying solely on tablet control creates vulnerability. Network or tablet failure stops mixing. Physical console access provides backup.

Hybrid Approaches

Use the tablet to supplement console operation rather than replace it. Walk the room for assessment while a colleague maintains console position.

Make critical adjustments from the console; use the tablet for mobile verification. This combines control precision with mobile flexibility.

During soundcheck, tablet mixing from audience position optimizes for listening perspective. During performance, console operation provides reliability.

Security Considerations

Secure the WiFi network with strong passwords. Unsecured networks allow anyone to connect and potentially affect the mix.

Guest networks or public venue WiFi should never be used for mixer control. Security and reliability both suffer.

Disable the mixer’s network during teardown to prevent unauthorized access after the event.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Connection drops: Check router power, verify WiFi settings, confirm tablet is on correct network. Restart router and tablet if necessary.

Lag in response: Network congestion or weak signal causes delay. Move closer to router or reduce network traffic.

App crashes: Restart the app. Check for app updates. Reboot the tablet if problems persist.

Cannot find mixer: Verify IP addresses are correct. Check that mixer and router are powered and connected. Test with a direct Ethernet connection if wireless fails.