What an Aux Send Is
An Aux send lets you send a separate mix of channels out of the mixer—commonly for stage monitors or external effects.
Step 1: Turn Up the Channel Aux
On the channel you want to send, find the AUX level knob.
Turn the AUX level up.
➡ This controls how much of that channel goes to the Aux mix.
-
Note: Larger VLZ4 mixers offer extra options between pre-fader or post-fader behavior.
-
Pre-fader: Fader controls do NOT affect the level of this channel being output.
Typical use cases: monitors (IEMs, stage wedges)
-
Post-fader: Fader controls DO affect the level of this channel being output.
Typical use cases: FX loops, extra PA fills, recording
-
Step 2: Turn Up the Aux Master
In the master section, find the AUX MASTER level.
Turn it up.
➡ If this is down, nothing will come out of the Aux send.
Step 3: Connect the Aux Output
Plug a balanced TRS cable into the AUX SEND jack on the mixer.
Connect it to:
A monitor speaker or in-ear system, or
An external effects unit
Note: aux outputs are wired as balanced mono.
(Optional) Return an Effect
If using effects:
Send signal out via AUX SEND.
Bring the effect back into the mixer using STEREO RETURN or a spare channel.
-
Turn up the STEREO RETURN to send that signal to the main mix.
Note: Larger VLZ4 mixers offer extra routing configuration on the STEREO RETURNS. Pay attention to the positions of your routing switches.
Quick Checklist
✔ Channel AUX level is up
✔ AUX MASTER is up
✔ Cable is plugged into AUX SEND
For more information or questions about Mackie products, please contact us here.