Insert vs Send
Definition
Two fundamental signal routing approaches in mixing. An insert places a processor directly in the signal path — the entire signal passes through it and returns processed. A send routes a portion of the signal to a shared effects processor, blending the processed return with the original dry signal.
In Simple Terms
Two ways to connect an effect. An insert puts the effect directly on the track — like a compressor that processes every sound passing through. A send shares one effect across many tracks — like one reverb that makes everything sound like the same room.
In Practice
A compressor is typically inserted directly on a channel (the entire signal must be compressed). A reverb is typically used on a send/return (multiple channels share one reverb at different blend levels).
Common Confusion
Using a reverb as an insert and setting it to 100% wet is technically possible but eliminates the dry signal and prevents multiple channels from sharing the same acoustic space efficiently.