[Synchronized Live!] Outputting Synchronized Sound Sources Using a Multi-Track Audio Interface

Hello!
This is Ito from Kyoto GROWLY’s production team!
I work every day to support the music lives of musicians based in Kyoto and the Kansai region.

Kyoto GROWLY is celebrating its 12th anniversary this April!
Located just a 3-minute walk from Nijo Station, we operate a music building that includes a live music venue, a music studio, and a gallery.
The 3rd-floor gallery, in particular, holds exhibitions irregularly but is usually free to enter, so whether you're nearby or visiting as a tourist, we’d love to see you drop by!

Now, I’d like to share an article offering live performance tips for musicians. I believe this information will be useful for bands, solo artists, and units of all kinds.

Theme: [Synchronized Sound Sources]

By not only having members perform live but also syncing pre-created DTM tracks or separately recorded audio with live performances, musicians can expand their expressive range significantly. With the rise of DTM and digital tools, many musicians are incorporating synchronized sound sources into their setups. This approach is also widely used by musicians performing at festivals and arena-level events.

For example, you might hear strings or layered choruses at a live show with only four band members performing. These are often made possible by synchronized sound sources.

In this article, I’ll focus on an especially "luxurious" situation: outputting multiple distinct audio tracks separately and controlling them individually.

When it comes to output systems for synchronized sound sources, there are two general approaches:

1. ① Combine all tracks into a mono or stereo mix (2-mix) and output them to the PA system.
2. ② Output two or more tracks separately in mono or stereo to the PA system for independent control.

For ①, the setup can be very simple and requires minimal equipment. Common examples include:

• Using an MTR (Multi-Track Recorder).
• Using an audio interface with a 2-out function connected to a PC.

- Examples of Multi-Track Recorders (MTR) -

ZOOM / R12 MultiTrak Multi-Track Recorder

- Examples of Audio Interfaces -

TASCAM / US-2x2HR Audio Interface

Solution for These Disadvantages

To address these issues,
use an MTR or interface capable of outputting multiple lines (three or more) separately for independent control.

- Examples of Multi-Track Compatible Interfaces -

BEHRINGER / UMC1820

I personally use the BEHRINGER / UMC1820 for live performances. The "8in/8out" functionality mentioned in its specifications is what qualifies it as a multi-track device. For live shows, the "8out" feature is particularly valuable.

This means you can send eight distinct sound sources to the PA system using eight separate output lines. For example:

①②: Layered synths (stereo)
③④: Hi-hats and rhythm synths (stereo)
⑤: Kick drum from an electronic drum kit
⑥: Lead
⑦: Chorus
⑧: Synth bass (re-amped through a bass amp and sent to DI)

These separate outputs allow the backing tracks to be sent to the PA with individual control over each element.

Why Separate Outputs Matter

I particularly appreciate the ability to send kick and bass tracks independently. Low-frequency instruments often require fine-tuning based on the venue's acoustics to achieve their "sweet spot." Sending these tracks with as natural a tone as possible, without over-processing on the musician's end, lets the PA team balance and shape them more effectively. In my experience, this approach often leads to better overall sound.

Rehearsals Are Key

Thorough rehearsals are essential. Since you’re entrusting more control to the PA team, it’s important to communicate with the staff, conduct multiple tests, and confirm that your music sounds as you envisioned in the venue.

For tips on live rehearsals, I recommend reading the article recently posted by our team member Uchida. It’s packed with useful insights!

In Conclusion

Thanks to the advancement and accessibility of digital tools, the possibilities for creating music with small groups or even solo performances have become virtually limitless. Beyond producing tracks at home, I encourage you to take the leap and showcase your music live on stage!

To all musicians in the Kansai area, we look forward to seeing you at GROWLY!

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