Understanding The Difference Between Switchers And Mixers

Let’s be sincere, it took a while for some of us to know the difference between some things. Some of us still think turtles and tortoises are the same (rolls eyes, no they are not!). Some of us mistake yam for sweet potato and some of us still can’t tell the difference between the identical twins that happen to be our next-door neigbours.

Yes! Telling differences is a thing

When it comes to the domain of audiovisual production, since the days of Mungo Park even unto now, people have had some hard time telling the difference between switchers and mixers. But not to worry, we’ve got you covered with these 5 simplified differences between switchers and mixers.

Function: Switchers are used to switch between different video sources, while mixers are used to combine different audio sources,
Inputs: Switchers typically have video inputs, while mixers have audio inputs. Switchers can be used with a variety of video sources, such as cameras, computers, and DVD players. Mixers, on the other hand, can be used with a variety of audio sources, such as microphones, instruments, and pre-recorded tracks.
Outputs: Switchers typically have video outputs, while mixers have audio outputs. Switchers are used to select which video source is displayed on a screen or projected onto a larger display. Mixers on the other hand are used to create a single audio output from multiple sources.
Controls: Switchers have controls for selecting between video sources, while mixers have controls for adjusting the levels of each audio source, adding effects, and controlling the overall sound of the mix.
Use cases: Switchers are commonly used in live events, television production, and video conferencing, while mixers are commonly used in music production, broadcasting, and live events where audio is a primary concern

There you have it, as armadillos are different from crocodiles (yes, that too!) and as turtles are different from tortoises, so are switchers different from mixers and these two serve different functions. Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right tool for the job.

And what better way to end this than to see for yourself images and samples of a few top-quality switchers and mixers from https://holoceneinnovations.com.

MIXERS