Pre-fader and post-fader describe whether a signal is taken before or after a channel fader. The setting is commonly used for sends, meters, and additional outputs, and determines whether moving the channel fader changes the level at the destination.
Pre-fader routing
With a pre-fader send, lowering the channel fader normally does not change the send level. It is useful for headphone cue mixes, independent recording feeds, and level monitoring that must remain separate from the main mix.
Post-fader routing
With a post-fader send, the send level follows movements of the channel fader. This is the usual choice for reverb and delay sends because lowering the dry signal also lowers the effect return proportionally, preventing the ambience from remaining unnaturally loud.
Choosing a send mode
Post-fader is a good starting point when an effect should maintain its balance with the source. Pre-fader is useful when the destination needs an independent balance, such as a cue mix or a special parallel effect. The purpose of the signal path should determine the choice.
Mute and insert behavior
Even in pre-fader mode, the effect of mute and the position of pre- or post-fader inserts vary between DAWs and mixers. Lower the fader, engage mute, and watch the destination meter while listening to confirm the actual routing.
Related terms
See Send for controlling the feed level, Bus for combining signals, and Channel Strip for the full channel signal path.
