How to Set Up Auto Fading Main for Behringer X32 Automating a smooth volume fade-out on your main mix is a powerful tool for live theater, house of worship services, and seamless performance transitions. While the Behringer X32 does not have a single “auto-fade” button, you can easily create this effect using the console’s built-in Cue and Snippet automation system.
Here is how to set up an automated main fader fade-out on your Behringer X32. Step 1: Create the Snippet
Snippets allow you to target specific parameters—like fader positions—without affecting the rest of your console setup. Press the Show Control button next to the main screen.
View the screen and navigate to the Snippets tab using the page select buttons. Select an empty slot in the list.
On the right side of the screen, look at the Parameter Filter columns.
Deselect everything except Fader (ensure only “Fader” or “Volume” is checked).
In the Channel Filter columns, deselect everything except Main M/C or Main LR (depending on which master fader you want to fade).
Manually pull your physical Main LR fader all the way down to -∞ (infinity).
Press the Save utility button on the screen to save this snippet. Name it something clear, like Main Fade Out.
Return your physical Main LR fader to its normal operating position (usually 0 dB). Step 2: Build the Cue and Set the Fade Time
Now you need to put that snippet into a Cue, which allows you to attach a specific time duration to the movement. Navigate to the Cues tab within the Show Control menu.
Select an empty slot where you want the fade to happen in your show sequence. Press the New Cue or Edit button on the screen. Name the Cue (e.g., End of Show).
Look for the Snippet assignment field on the cue edit page and link it to the Main Fade Out snippet you just created. Find the Fade Time box on the screen.
Use the rotary encoder knob under the screen to adjust the time. For a standard, smooth musical exit, set this between 4.0 to 6.0 seconds. Save your changes. Step 3: Test and Trigger the Fade
With the setup complete, you can now test the automation in real-time.
Ensure your Main LR fader is back up at its normal volume and audio is passing through. In the Cues list, highlight your newly created fade Cue.
Press the physical GO button (located in the Scenes/Show Control section on the right side of the console).
Watch the physical Main LR motorized fader. It will smoothly glide down to the bottom over the exact number of seconds you specified. Pro-Tip: Resetting for the Next Show
Because the X32 automation executes changes sequentially, your main fader will stay down until you bring it back up. To make your show foolproof, create a second snippet called Main Reset with the fader at 0 dB. Link this to your very first Cue at the top of your show playlist so the console is always ready to go when you start.
If you want to customize this automation further, let me know:
Would you prefer to trigger this fade using a Assignable Custom Button on the right side of the desk?
Do you need help integrating this with external software like QLab?
I can provide step-by-step instructions to tailor the console exactly to your workflow.
Leave a Reply