Limiter
The limiter is a function on the mixer and other sound devices that keeps your sound from getting so loud that it distorts. All limiters are not created equal. Some limiters will sharply cut off loud sounds rather than smoothly dampen them down. (Shown in the off position here.)
Lo-Cut Filter
This little switch, also found on some mics, helps filter out low frequency background noises such as wind, idling engines, air conditioners, etc. (Shown in the off position here.)
Pan Knob
Use to assign the sound from each input to the left sound channel (output 1), or the right sound channel (output 2), or anywhere in between (both outputs).
Monitor In
This is where you would plug in a mini to mini stereo cable from your camera’s headphone jack to listen to the sound recorded by the camera, rather than the sound coming out of the mixer, through your headphones.
Tone Generator
Use to send a reference tone to the camera. Adjust the master volume until the needle is at 0. Then adjust the volume on your DV camera until the meter is just below the red zone (or at about −20 dB if your audio meter has decibel markings).
Slate
Use to insert a little electronic beep to “slate” the beginning of each new sound take so it’s easier to locate during editing. On some mixers, such as the FP33, there is also an internal mic so that you can make verbal comments for each take as well.
