Choose your input. The most common inputs for a TV studio audio console are from microphones and prerecorded material from a source like a CD or computer. These sources break down into two categories -- mic level and line level. Mic level sources are typically TV personalities talking into microphones and require a preamplifier, or preamp, to get the signal to a workable level. Many TV audio consoles will include preamps on each input channel that will allow you to adjust the gain of the microphone input. Line-level sources, like CD players, do not require a preamp.
Set your input levels. If you are working with a microphone, set the preamp gain first. If you are working with a line-level signal, set the line-input level. After the input level is set, adjust your fader to get a good signal level. If your console has VU meters, the signal should be around 0dB. If your console has dBFS meters, which is common on digital consoles, your level should be in the range of -20dB to -12dB.
Mix the signals together. Once you have multiple signals coming through your console, you need to artistically blend them together. Take the example of two news anchors. If they speak at different loudness levels, you need to balance them so they sound the same through the console. You also need to balance any other signals, such as background noise, music beds and ambient sound captured from B-roll.
Set your output. TV studio consoles typically output to three basic sources. The cue output will allow you to cue up music or other audio that is about to be played live. The cue output is often a low quality speaker built into or placed near the console. The audition or monitor output allows you to listen to a sound source before it goes out. You can set levels and make any adjustments before the sound is recorded or broadcast. The program output sends the audio to the recording device or to the live broadcast.
Place your sound in the stereo or surround field. Each channel has a panning knob that can be used to balance the signal between the left and right speakers. One difference between many TV studio audio consoles and recording studio consoles is the ability to place sound in a surround sound field. You can use surround panning to balance the signal between the left, right, center, left surround and right surround channels.