Stage Wash programming and desk channels

Hello, I am pretty new to Hog4 PC (still running tutorials). Please forgive my obvious and/or stupid questions. I have (12) 575 Conventional Lekos running off two dimmers. I need (10) for Stage Wash, and (2) for Specials. Is there a way to link the (10) lekos to Master 1 and the (2) Lekos to Master 2 without recording scenes or cues? I am looking to just use the respective faders to adjust intensity and bring them up and down as needed.

Also, what is a desk channel? And how do I patch to it? I am finding a lot of references to DCs but no definitions or how-tos. Thank you!