Audio tracks (and MIDI tracks using a software instrument) can optionally send their output to a Group section. This allows for controlling multiple tracks with a single volume fader, or for running multiple tracks through a single Compressor. The Group section's output is routed to the Master section (it can also be routed to audio device output channels with the Pro edition).
Group sections can be added using the Add Track menu. A group can be removed by dragging the text on the left (Group 1 etc.) to the Garbage Bin. The order in which the groups appear can be changed using drag-and-drop.
Group sections have the following features:
Group section
- Level Meter: Shows the actual output level (that is, the level after applying effects and volume/pan). See Level Meters.
- Volume fader: Sets the group's volume.
- Mute button: Mutes the group.
- Solo button: Solos the group.
- Pan knob: Sets the pan position for the group. It has a blue dot.
- Effect Send knobs: Control the level of the (mono) signal sent to the corresponding Effect Return section. Effect Sends are of the "post-fader" and "post-effects" type. The Effect Send signal is affected by the Volume fader, the Mute button, and the effects.
- Effect Slots: Can contain effects such as an EQ or a Compressor. Effects processing takes place before volume and pan processing, so compressor settings don't need to be adjusted when moving the Volume fader.
- Output Selector (Pro edition only): Determines the routing of the group's output. Only appears if the song uses multiple stereo outputs (see Song Properties). The output can be sent to the Master section or to a pair of channels (3/4, 5/6...) of the Audio Out Device. The Pan knob can be used to send the signal to one channel only.
A Label can be placed on a group section to show its purpose (i.e., "Backing Vocals").
Note: Care should be taken in situations where tracks routed through the group use the same Effect Sends: effects in the group section can cause phase shifts that may lead to unexpected coloration.