Pan-Pot

In audio engineering, "pan-pot" (short for "panoramic potentiometer") refers to a control knob or function used to distribute a monaural audio signal across a stereo or multi-channel sound field. Its primary purpose is to adjust the perceived location of a sound source within the stereo image.

The pan-pot typically operates by attenuating the signal sent to one channel while simultaneously increasing the signal sent to the other channel. When centered, the signal is sent equally to both channels, creating the illusion of the sound originating from the center of the stereo field. As the pan-pot is rotated towards the left, the signal to the left channel increases while the signal to the right channel decreases, causing the sound to be perceived as originating more from the left. Conversely, rotating the pan-pot to the right results in the sound appearing to originate more from the right.

The term "pan-pot" is often used interchangeably with "pan control" or simply "pan." It is a fundamental tool in mixing and mastering, allowing engineers to create a sense of space and depth within a stereo or multi-channel audio recording. It is essential for positioning instruments, vocals, and other sound elements within the soundstage, enhancing the overall listening experience. The precise attenuation and gain curves used in pan-pots can vary, but the basic principle of distributing a monaural signal across multiple channels remains consistent.