Insert (effects processing)
audio signal access point built into a mixing console
In audio processing and sound reinforcement, an insert is an access point built into the mixing console, allowing the audio engineer to add external line-level devices into the signal flow between the microphone preamplifier and the mix bus.
Common usages include gating, compressing, equalizing and for reverb effects that are specific to that channel or group. Inserts can be used as an alternate way to route signals, such as for multitrack recording output or line-level direct input.
Insert jacks
Inserts can be balanced or unbalanced. Typically, higher-end mixers will have balanced inserts, and entry-level mixers will have unbalanced inserts. Balanced inserts appear as a pair of jacks, one serving as the send (out from the mixer) and the other serving as the return (back to the mixer). Balanced insert jacks can be XLR, 1/4" TRS phone connector or Bantam (TT).
Unbalanced inserts can also be a pair of jacks, such as RCA or 1/4-inch TS (tip sleeve) phone connector. Again, one jack serves as send, and the other serves as return.
Most modern entry-level and medium-format mixers use a single TRS phone jack for both send and return.
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