Send/Return

Definition

Send/Return (also called Aux Send) is a routing method where audio is "sent" from a track to an auxiliary channel for processing, then "returned" to the mix. It's the standard professional method for applying reverb.

How It Works

1. Create an aux/bus track with reverb inserted (100% wet)
2. Create sends from source tracks to this aux
3. Adjust send levels to control how much signal goes to reverb
4. The reverb return adds back into the mix

Advantages Over Insert

• Multiple tracks share one reverb (saves CPU)
• Easy to process reverb independently (EQ, compression)
• More flexible blend control
• Creates unified spaces across multiple sources
• Parallel processing automatically

Pre-Fader vs. Post-Fader Sends

• Post-fader (default): Send level follows fader - reverb fades with source
• Pre-fader: Send level independent - reverb continues even when source is muted

Related Terms

• Aux Track
• Bus
• Wet/Dry Mix
• Parallel Processing