Gain vs. Faders on a Mixing Board

[dmbpettit]

What is the proper technique to use when setting your levels in a live situation. I set the faders to 0 and adjust the gain to get it "in the ball park". I then adjust the faders to find the right volume. Is this the correct method? Someone once told me to set the gain to 12 o'clock and make all adjustments at the faders. This doesn't seem like it would work.

Can anyone straighten me out?

 

[SouthSIDE Glen]

I start out the same way you do; use the sound check to set the trim with the faders at zero, though I go the extra step with the trim to try to "keep it in the infield" and not just "in the ballpark". I try not to use the faders for that; reserving them solely for for riding the live mix.

G.

 

[giraffe]

Someone once told me to set the gain to 12 o'clock and make all adjustments at the faders. This doesn't seem like it would work.

then why would thare be the option to put them anywhare else?

stay away from that person.

 

[Farview]

Hit the PFL on a channel, set the level to 0 on the meters. Use the faders to mix. That is proper gain staging.