A mixing console or mixing desk is an electronic device that combines, mixes, and changes the level, dynamics, and timbre level of different audio signals. It is used in sound recording and reproduction, sound reinforcement systems, and other applications such as public address systems, nightclubs, broadcasting, and post-production. A mixing desk brings together all of the different instruments and parts of a production into one place, allowing the user to change the parameters of each part as needed, such as volume, frequency content, stereo position, dynamics, and effects. Mixing desks have a certain number of input channels that take audio signals to combine them with signals from other channels and send them to output channels. The channels are usually laid out in strips, and the signal enters the mixer through the back and passes through the various controls of the channels. Mixing desks can be split into two main sections: the input section and the monitoring section. Mixing consoles are also known as audio mixers, audio consoles, sound mixers, soundboards, or simply as a board or mixer.