One of the many benefits provided by digital sound systems is the ability to include convenient automated mix functions. Such functions can significantly reduce the burden on staff for basic BGM distribution and events such as speeches or lectures, eliminating the need for a sound professional to be available full time.

This function automatically lowers the volume of background music when a speech or announcement begins, and then returns the BGM to normal level when the announcement or speech finishes. The Priority Ducker function eliminates the need to manually adjust the BGM levels via a mixer, and the presenter or announcer can start and stop speaking at any time. This type of automated ducking can be particularly effective at facilities such as banquet halls, restaurants, or shopping centers, etc., where BGM is normally playing most of the time, but occasional announcements or speeches make it necessary to lower the BGM level accordingly.

When a stereo signal (music or other program material) is applied to a specified stereo input pair, the BGM that is normally playing is automatically faded out completely so that only the new program material remains. This can be particularly useful at amusement facilities, banquet rooms, and retail outlets where different types of music or sound are used to support the overall program. It could be used to insert a fanfare at an appropriate time, for example, or change the mood at parties. Music Override can be a powerful production tool for a wide range of applications.

(One example of the many possible uses for Music Override: switch from normal BGM to a birthday song to surprise a guest.)

For announcements and teleconferences, where a microphone is used to deliver sound to a remote location, differences in the loudness of the speaker's voice and distance from speaker's mouth to microphone can cause large variations in the level delivered by the sound system. The sound might be unbearably loud, or too soft to be heard clearly. That can be stressful for the listener, and impede the progress of a conference. Adjustments could be made for each individual speaker, but that would require a considerable amount of dedicated effort. The solution is to use the Auto Gain Control function that automatically adjusts for differences in input level in order to maintain a constant, clear output level.

(Auto Gain Control automatically compensates for different speakers to maintain consistent level and intelligibility.)

The automated mix functions described above are just some of the many that are available and worth considering when you're planning a new sound installation.