What is the name of the audio output channel of an audio mixing device that can be used to listen to an audio source without activating the mixing device's channel-on or channel-assign switches?

The audio output channel of an audio mixing device, referred to as the cue channel, allows an operator to listen to an audio source without activating the channel-on or channel-assign switches. This is particularly useful for monitoring purposes, enabling the engineer or operator to pre-listen or prepare audio before it is sent to the main output.

The cue channel provides a way to check levels, effects, and other audio characteristics in isolation. The functionality ensures that critical monitoring can happen without affecting the overall mix that is being heard by the audience, allowing greater control over the audio production process.

Utilizing a cue channel is essential in live broadcasts, recording sessions, and other scenarios where audio fidelity and timing are crucial. While other types of channels, such as monitoring channels or submix channels, serve different purposes in audio management, they do not facilitate the same isolated listening capability that the cue channel provides.