Audio Components Flashcards
Mixer (2)
- combine, control, and route audio signals from, a number, of inputs to a number of outputs
- manage the amount of acoustical energy in the space to avoid feedback when multiple microphones are open at the same time
examples of automatic mixers (2)
- Gated Automatic Mixers
- Gain Sharing Automatic Mixers
Gated Automatic Mixers
Will turn microphone channels on and off automatically, like an on/off switch
Gain Sharing Automatic Mixers
Will turn up microphone channels being used and turn down channels not being used, like a volume knob
Compressor (3)
- controls the dynamic range of a signal by reducing the part of the signal that exceeds the user-adjustable threshold
- When the signal exceeds the threshold, the overall amplitude is reduced by a user-defined ratio, thus reducing the overall dynamic range
- useful when reinforcing energetic presenters, who may occasionally raise their voice for emphasis
Compressor Ratio
determines how much the volume reduces depending on how far above the threshold the signal is
attack and release times on a compressor (2)
- attack time is how long it takes for the compressor to react after the compressor exceeds the threshold
- release time determines when the compressor lets go after the level settles below the threshold
Limiter (2)
- audio signal processor that functions like a compressor except that signals exceeding the threshold level are reduced at ratios of 10:1 or greater
- used to limit the impact of extreme sound pressure spikes
Expander (3)
- audio processor that comes in two types: a downward expander and a part of a compander
- increase gain if the signal is very low
- When used in an amplified environment, expanders can push a system into painfully loud feedback
Compressor function
control dynamics by reducing the level of all signals above an adjustable threshold
Compressor Examples
studio Conference Systems: Many different far end levels may connect to the room so compression allows for a more consistent level across bridge calls
Limiter Function
restrict the level of all signals above an adjustable threshold
Limiter Example
“Mic Drop”: Prevents damage to equipment from dangerously high audio levels.
Expander Function
increase the level of all signals below an adjustable threshold.
Expander Example
Presenter with a weak voice: Increases gain if the signal is very low
Filters
remove or pass certain frequencies from a signal
Low Pass Filters
Eliminates High frequency hiss
Common Source of High frequency hiss (2)
- Low-cost consumer level audio devices
- Cheap MP3 files
High Pass Filters
Eliminates Low frequency noise
Common Source of Low frequency noise (2)
- HVAC systems
- Proximity effect on a microphone
Gate
audio processor that allows signals to pass only above a certain setting or threshold
Equalizers (2)
- a piece of electronic equipment that adjusts or corrects the frequency characteristics of a signal
- allow you to boost (add gain) or cut (attenuate) a specific range of frequencies
Parametric Equalizers
Allow fine control of dozens of specific frequencies where you can grab any control and add precise amounts of boost or cut to that particular frequency.
Graphic Equalizers
Allow you to make large-scale adjustments to a signal with fewer filters.
Delays (3)
- Delay is the retardation of a signal.
- In the context of audio processing, it is an adjustment of the time in which a signal is sent to a destination, often used to compensate for the distance between loudspeakers or the differential in processing required between multiple signals.
- If the delay is an unintended byproduct of signal processing, it is usually referred to as latency.
Digital Signal Processor
combines processor functions like mixers, limiters, and equalizers into a single piece of equipment
Amplifier
- an electronic device for increasing the strength of electrical signals
- increasing the gain (the voltage and power) of the signal from line level to loudspeaker level
Power Amplifier Wires (3)
- Power amplifiers are connected to loudspeakers with larger gauge wire than used for mic or line level.
- The size of wire will depend on the distance between the power amplifier, the loudspeaker, and the current required.
- Loudspeaker cabling will be unshielded and may or may not be twisted.
