What is a Return (Aux Return)?

An aux return, or auxiliary return, is an input on a mixer or audio system used to bring the processed signal from an external effects device back into the mix. It receives the audio that was previously sent out through an aux send.

For example, a channel may send part of its signal to a reverb or delay processor using an aux send. After the effect processes the audio, the resulting signal is routed back into the mixer through the aux return so it can be blended with the original sound.

Aux returns allow multiple channels to share the same effects processor while giving the engineer control over how much of the processed signal is added to the final mix. This method is widely used in mixing consoles, recording studios, and live sound systems.