General Flashcards
What is A/B Technique?
A stereo microphone placement technique in which two cardioid or omni mics are spaced somewhere between 3-10 feet apart from each other (depending on the size of the sound source) to create an L/R stereo image.
What is absorption?
In acoustics, absorption is what happens when sound waves are absorbed by a surface, as opposed to bouncing off the surface (reflection). Absorptive materials in a control room, for example, tend to “deaden” the sound of the room because the sound energy is absorbed rather than reflected.
What is absolute phase?
This term describes a perfect polarity between an original signal (into the microphone) and the reproduced signal (through the speaker). When positive pressure exerted upon the microphone is translated as positive pressure to the loudspeaker, the two are in “absolute phase.”
What is an accelerometer and why is it relevant for audio?
A device that measures the acceleration to which it is subjected and creates an electric signal to match it. In music and audio, accelerometers are found in such things as microphones and guitar pickups.
What is an acorn tube?
Named for its acorn-like shape, an acorn tube is a small vacuum tube used in ultra high frequency (UHF) electronics such as tube amplifiers.
What does acoustics mean?
The science of the sound—more specifically, the science of the properties and behavior of sound waves. A good understanding of acoustics is essential to audio engineering and studio design.
What is an acoustic amplifier?
The part of a musical instrument that vibrates in response to the initial vibration of the instrument, causing the surrounding air to move more efficiently and making the sound louder. For example: the body of an acoustic guitar, the bell of a horn, a drum’s shell, and the wooden soundboard of a piano.
What is an acoustic echo chamber?
A room designed with hard, non-parallel surfaces to create reverberation. In recording studios, they are used to add natural reverb to a dry signal.
What is an active device?
A component that is designed with the ability to control electrical current (as opposed to a “Passive Device”). In the recording studio, active devices are generally components that include an amplifier.
What is an actuator?
The part of a switch that causes change of the contact connections (e.g., toggle, pushbutton, or rocker).
What is A/D?
Abbreviation of Analog-to-Digital Conversion, the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (like electrical signals) into numbers that approximate those changes (i.e., computer data)
What is ADSR?
Abbreviation for Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release, the four stages of volume changes in a sound event. ADSR controls are particularly useful on synthesizer instruments.
What is Additive Synthesis?
A method of sound synthesis in which sounds are designed or created by combining simple waveforms together to create richer or harmonically diverse sounds.
What is AES?
Audio Engineering Society
What is AES/AES-256?
Advanced Encryption Standard used by the U.S. government.
What is AES3 or AES/EBU?
A digital audio transfer standard developed by the Audio Engineering Society and the European Broadcasting Union for carrying dual-channel digital audio data between devices. AES3 is the protocol behind XLR cables, as well as RCA and S/PDIF cables.
What is aftertouch?
(Also called “Pressure Sensitivity“) A feature in some keyboard instruments by which applying additional pressure to a key after it has been pressed can activate an additional MIDI control command. a synthesizer or Keyboard Controller of After Touch (a control or operational function of a synthesizer where pressing a key after it has been pressed, and before it is released, will activate a control command that can be set by the player).
What is aliasing?
A type of digital signal distortion that occurs in a sampler when the incoming signal frequency exceeds the Nyquist frequency for that unit. The sampler reproduces it at an incorrect frequency, or an “alias,” causing a distortion or artifact in the sound. (See also “Nyquist Frequency.”)
What is alternating current?
The type of electrical current found in standard electrical outlets and studio signals running through audio lines. In AC, the current “alternates” directions, flowing back and forth through the circuit.
What is ambience?
In most cases, this refers to the “atmosphere” of a certain place, like a restaurant. But in recording, it refers to the part of the sound that comes from the surrounding environment rather than directly from the sound source. For example, the sound waves coming into your ears from a cello being played are coming directly from the source, but the sound of the same cello coming to you after bouncing off the back wall is ambient sound.
What is the ambient field?
The area away from the sound source where the reverberation is louder than the direct sound.
What is ambient miking
This refers to placing a microphone in the ambient field of a room to record the ambient reverberations of the sound. The recording engineer often does this in addition to direct micing of the instrument(s) to create a blend or mix of direct and reverberant sound in the recording. (room mics)
What could an amp be?
An abbreviation for “Amplifier,” “Amplitude” or “Ampere,” depending on context.
What is an ampere?
The unit of measure for electrical current, abbreviated Amp.
What is an amplifier?
A device that increases the level or amplitude of an electrical signal, making the resulting sound louder.
What is amplitude?
The height of a waveform above or below the zero line. In audio, this usually translates to the signal strength or the volume of the sound.
What is analog?
A continuously changing representation of a continuously variable quantity. In the context of audio, this refers to using continuously changing electrical signals (voltage) to represent the continuously variable frequencies of sound, and/or recording those signals to an analog medium. Analog is in contrast to digital, which represents constantly changing quantities in the form of fixed numeric values.
What is analog recording?
A recording of the continuous changes of an audio waveform. The most common example of analog recording in a recording studio is recording on reel-to-reel magnetic tape.
What is an Analog To Digital Converter (A/D)?
A device that translates a continuously changing signal (analog) into numeric values that approximate those changes (digital). In audio recording, this refers to converting recorded sound from electrical voltages to computerized data.
What is an attack in an audio context?
The initiation of a sound. In terms of the four stages of a sound (Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release, or ADSR), a sound’s attack is the point where the sound begins and increases in volume to its peak.
What is attenuation?
The reduction of electrical or acoustic signal strength. In audio, attenuation is measured in decibels (dB) and is typically heard as a reduction in volume. Sound waves traveling through the air naturally attenuate as they travel away from the source of the sound. Engineers also purposefully attenuate signals in the studio through gain controls or pads to prevent overload.
What is audio?
In its broadest sense, audio is the range of frequencies we humans can hear with our ears. In the technical sense, audio refers to the transmission, recording or reproduction of sound, whether digitally, electrically or acoustically.
What is ADR?
Automatic Dialogue Replacement – The process of re-recording dialogue for film in a controlled environment after the film is shot, for the purpose of replacing poorly recorded dialogue.
What is automatic gain control?
A compressor with a long release time, which is used to keep the volume of the audio at a consistent level.
What is automation?
Programming certain changes to occur automatically during recording and/or playback. In the studio, engineers use automation on their consoles or computers so various parameters will change automatically at different times during multitrack recording and playback. This pre-programming feature makes it easier to create those changes than attempting to perform them all manually in real time.
What is an auxiliary return?
(Abbreviated Aux Return or Return) The input on a console or DAW that returns the effected signal sent through the auxiliary send back into the channel mix.
What is an auxiliary send?
(Abbreviated Aux Send or Send) A control to adjust the signal level being sent from the input channel on a console or DAW to auxiliary equipment or plug-ins through the auxiliary bus. This is typically used for creating an effects loop that processes a portion of the signal, then returns it into the mix through the auxiliary return.
What is auxiliary equipment?
External signal processing devices that work alongside the mixing console to modify the signal.
What is an axis for audio purposes?
An imaginary line around which a device operates. For example: in microphone use, the axis is an imaginary line coming out from the front of the microphone in the direction of motion of the diaphragm, delineating the optimum location for the mic to pick up the sound. Sounds that occur “off-axis” from the microphone will not be picked up as clearly.
What is background noise?
Refers to either 1) The ambient noise in a room unrelated to the instrument(s) or vocal(s) being recorded; or 2) The system noise unrelated to the recorded signal. (All electronics emit a level of noise.)
What are baffles?
Sound absorbing panels that are used to prevent sound waves from entering or leaving a space.
What is balance?
1) The relative level of two or more instruments in a mix, or the relative level of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording. 2) To even out the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of stereo recording.
What is a balanced cable and give two examples of balanced cables?
A cable consisting of three wires (two signal wires and a ground wire) and two connectors. The two signal wires carry the same signal in opposite polarities, providing protection against interference and noise in a balanced system. Examples of balanced cables include tip-ring-sleeve (TRS) stereo cables and XLR cables.
What is a balanced mixer?
A circuit or device that generates the sum and difference frequencies of two input signals.
What is a band?
1) A range of frequencies, often identified by the center frequency of the range. 2) A group of musicians playing together.
What is a band pass filter?
A device, circuit or plug-in that allows a narrow band of frequencies to pass through the circuit, rejecting or attenuating frequencies that are either higher or lower than the specified range.
What is a band stop filter?
A device, circuit or plug-in that attenuates a narrow band of frequencies in the signal, allowing frequencies outside the band to pass. The exact opposite of a band pass filter.
What is a band track?
(Sometimes abbreviated “Track“) A mixdown of a song minus the lead vocal and/or background vocals. In other words, a mixed track containing only the instrumental parts of the song.
What is bandwidth?
In signal processing, bandwidth refers to the usable frequency range of a communication channel, measured by the difference between the device’s highest and lowest usable frequencies.
What is a bank (audio)?
1) A collection of sound patches, sequencer data and/or operating parameters of a synthesizer’s generators and modifiers in memory. 2) A group of sound modules as a unit.
What is a bar?
In music notation, bar is another term for measure—a specified period of time containing a certain number of beats, and marked by bar lines on each side of the written measure.
What is barrier miking?
A microphone placement technique in which a microphone is placed close to a reflective surface. When done correctly, barrier miking ensures that both the direct and reflected sounds reach the microphone simultaneously, preventing phase cancellation between the two.
What is a basic session?
The first audio recording session for recording the basic tracks that serve as the song’s foundation (for example, the drums and bass).
What is a bass reflex?
A type of loudspeaker cabinet design in which a port (opening) in the speaker cabinet enhances bass frequencies. The principle is that the sound pressure generated by the back of the speaker cone inside the cabinet is routed out the port at the front of the cabinet, mixed with the sound coming from the front of the woofer. Changing the port size and position will greatly change the character of the low frequencies.
What is Bass?
The lower range of audio frequencies up to approximately 250 Hz. A reference value.
what is beaming?
A phenomenon found in loudspeakers in which higher frequencies are projected straight out of the loudspeaker, rather than dispersing along with the lower frequencies. When you stand on-axis in front of the speaker, it sounds as though it is only reproducing the high frequencies, rather than the mids or lows. This phenomenon is alleviated by routing the high frequncies through horns in the loudspeaker.
What is a beat?
1) The steady, even pulse in music. 2) The action of two sounds or audio signals of slightly different frequency interfering with one another and causing periodic increases and decreases in volume, heard to the ear as “beats.”
What is beat mapping and how does it relate to quantization?
The process of adjusting the tempo variations in a recorded piece of music to fit the set tempo of the project. In a DAW, this is done using time stretching tools and cuts to synchronize the transients to the appropriate tempo markers. This technique is often used, for example, to reconcile a drum or bass performance that was recorded without a click track.
Beat mapping is used to adjust the tempo playback of the project according to the tempo variations of the audio (or MIDI) toward which the beat mapping is derived from.
The quantization is the alignment of the notes or events (MIDI or Flex-ed audio transients) to the project grid, according to the quantization parameters set in the various editors.
What is beatmatching?
A technique predominantly used by DJs to synchronize the tempos of two recorded tracks, generally through the use of time stretching and pitch shifting tools, to create a seamless transition from one song into another.
What is BPM
Beats per minute- The number of steady even pulses in music occurring in one minute, defining the tempo of the song.
What is Bi-amplification?
A technique in which high and low frequencies in a speaker or speaker system are driven by two separate amplifiers.
What is a bi-directional pattern?
A microphone pickup pattern which is most sensitive to picking up sounds directly in front and back of the mic, effectively rejecting sounds coming from the sides. Also called a “figure-8 pattern.”
what is binary?
A numbering system in which all numeric values are described by occurrences of the symbols “0” and “1.” Most digital data is expressed in binary.
What is a bit?
The smallest unit of digital information representing a single “0” or “1.”
What is Bitrate (or Bit Depth)?
In digital recording, the number of computer bits used to describe each sample. The greater the bitrate, the greater the dynamic range of the sampled sound. The quality and resolution of an audio sample are described as a combination of sample rate and bitrate. (See also “Sample Rate.”)
What is blending?
The mixing of multiple sounds or channels together to form one sound, or mixing the left and right signals together.
What is a boom?
A telescoping support arm attached to a microphone stand holding the microphone.
What is a boom stand?
A microphone stand equipped with a telescoping support arm to hold the microphone. (mic stand)
What is a boost?
To increase gain at specific frequencies with an equalizer.
What is bouncing?
(also called “Ping-Ponging” or “Ponging“) The technique of combining and mixing multiple tracks onto one or two tracks (mono or stereo). This can be done in real-time or analog by playing the tracks through the console and recording them onto separate tracks, or digitally through a digital audio workstation. Bouncing was once used frequently by engineers to free up additional tracks for recording, but in digital workstations where tracks are virtually unlimited, this practice is basically obsolete. Today, engineers typically bounce tracks for the purpose of creating a preliminary or final mix of a song.
What is a boundary microphone?
An omnidirectional microphone designed to be placed flush against a flat surface (or boundary), effectively creating a “half-Omni” pickup pattern while eliminating the danger of phase issues from reflected sounds. A popular type of boundary microphone is Crown Audio’s trademark Pressure Zone Microphone (PZM).
What is a brickwall filter?
A certain type of low-pass filter exhibiting a steep cutoff slope which resembles a “brick wall.” While these filters are often found in A/D converters to prevent aliasing, their steep cutoff can introduce unwanted side-effects to the audio signal, such as phase shift.
What is bridging?
A technique of feeding a single input to both channels of an amplifier, then summing them into one, thereby effectively doubling the amplifier power supplied to the signal.
What is bucking?
A type of phase cancellation in which two identical signals or frequencies, having the same amplitude but opposite polarity, cancel one another out. Most commonly used in the context of musical instrument frequencies. EXAMPLE: a “Humbucker” guitar pickup is designed to remove or “buck” hum frequencies from the signal using this principle.
What is a bulk dump?
Short for System Exclusive Bulk Dump, a method of transmitting data such as the internal parameters between MIDI devices.
What is a bus?
An audio pathway by which one or more signals, usually from different sources, are routed to a designated place. Because busses are highly connected to signal flow, they serve a broad range of purposes in audio applications. 2) A shorthand term for the signals themselves that are routed through the bus (see also “Subgroup”).
What is a byte?
Information (data) bits in a grouping of eight. One byte = eight bits.
What is a cable?
A group of one or more insulated conductors, optical fibers, or a combination of both within an enveloping jacket, typically for transmitting electrical signals of different types.
What is cable assembly?
Cable that is ready for installation in specific applications and usually terminated with connectors.
What is a cable harness?
A grouping of cables or wires used to interconnect electronic systems.
What is a cable sheath?
Conductive protective cover that is applied to cables.
What is a capacitor?
An electronic device made of two plates separated by an insulator, designed to store electrostatic energy. The capacitor is a key component in condenser microphones, for example.
What is a capstan?
A mechanical part of a magnetic tape recorder that controls the speed of the tape as it passes across the tape heads.
What is a capsule?
Space-travel definitions aside, this is the name given to the part of a microphone that contains the diaphragm and active element, the mechanical structure that converts acoustic sound waves into electrical current.
what is a carbon microphone?
A microphone that uses carbon granules to convert sound waves to electrical impulses. The carbon element sits between two plates; as sound waves hit the carbon granules, it generates changes in resistance between the plates, affecting the electrical signal.
What is a Cardioid Pattern?
A microphone pickup pattern which is most sensitive to sound coming from the front, less from the sides, and least from the back of the diaphragm. So named because the pickup pattern is in the shape of a heart (cardio).
What is “cascade”?
To connect or “daisy chain” two mixers so that the stereo mixing busses of the first mixer feed into the stereo busses of the second.
What is a CD?
An abbreviation for Compact Disc, or a small optical disk with digital audio recorded on it.
What is the center frequency?
The frequency of an audio signal that is most affected by an equalizer, either boosting or attenuating the frequency. Drawn graphically, this is the very top or bottom (the “peak”) of the frequency bell-shaped curve.
What is a chase?
The automatic adjusting of the speed of a recorder (or sequencer) to keep time with another recorder.
What is a channel?
1) An audio recording made on a portion of the width of a multitrack tape, or isolated within a digital audio workstation, usually for the purpose of combining with other channels. 2) A single path that an audio signal travels or can travel through a device from an input to an output.
What is a channel path?
The complete signal path from the sound source to the multitrack recorder (or DAW). For example, an audio signal that travels from the microphone to the preamplifier, then into a channel strip on the mixing console, then is sent through the outputs into the recorder. This is different from the monitor path, which feeds a mix of signals into monitor speakers or headphones without affecting the recorded signals. (See also “Monitor Path.”)
what is a chord?
Three or more musical pitches sung or played together.
what is a chord chart?
A shorthand form of musical notation that provides the basic chord changes and essential rhythmic information of a song. Most commonly used by studio session players, rhythm sections or jazz bands to provide the skeletal structure of the song while allowing players room to create their own parts and improvise. While lead sheets typically focus on melody line and chord structure, chord charts display mainly chord changes and rhythm. (See also “Lead Sheet.”)
What is chorus?
1) The part of a song that is repeated with the same music and lyrics each time, often containing the main point or hook of the song. 2) A musical singing group with many singers. 3) A delay effect that simulates a vocal chorus by adding several delays with a mild amount of feedback and a medium amount of depth.
What is a circuit?
1) One complete path of electric current. 2) Similar to definition 1, but including all audio signal paths and components to accomplish a particular audio function.
what is a click track?
A metronome “click” fed into headphone monitors for the purpose of helping the musicians play in time with the song.
What is a clip?
The distortion of a signal due to overloading an electronic device, so named because the resulting graphic waveform looks like the edges of the waveform have been “clipped.”
What is a clock signal?
A signal sent by a device within the circuit that generates steady pulses or codes to keep other devices in sync with each other. An example in the music world is sequencing via MIDI. The sequencer sends a clock signal so connected devices will play in time.
What is close miking?
A microphone placement technique that places the mic close to the sound source to pick up the direct sound and reject ambient sound.
What is a coaxial cable?
(abbreviated “Coax”) A two-conductor cable that consists of one conductor surrounded by a shield.
What is coincident miking?
A stereo miking technique in which two microphones are placed with their heads as close to each other as possible. This prevents phase cancellation problems in the mix because the distance from the sound to either microphone is the same.
What is a compander?
A signal processor serving as a combination compressor and expander, primarily used for noise reduction purposes in analog systems. The audio signal is compressed prior to recording, then expanded at the reproduction stage. Companding is the principle behind Dolby noise reduction systems.
What is comping?
1) In digital audio workstations (DAWs), the process of blending portions of multiple recorded takes to create a “compliation” track. (See also “Take,” “Playlist.) 2) In jazz music performance, an abbreviation for “accompanying.”
What is compression?
1) In signal processing, the action performed by a compressor (see also “Compressor”). 2) In acoustics, the increased air pressure caused by the peak of a sound pressure wave, used in the context of “compression and rarefaction” (see also “Rarefaction”).
What is a compression ratio?
The rate by which a compressor attenuates an incoming signal, measured in decibels. For example, a compression ratio of 4:1 means the compressor will only allow a 1 dB increase in the signal for every 4 dB increase in the signal above the threshold.
What is a compression driver?
A diaphragm that feeds a sound pressure wave into a horn loudspeaker.
What is a compressor?
A signal processor or plug-in that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal by amplifying its quieter sections and attenuating its louder ones.
What is a condenser microphone?
A microphone in which sound is converted into electrical current through changes in a capacitor. The sound pressure waves move the diaphragm, producing changes in capacitance which are then changed into electrical voltage.
What is a contact microphone?
A microphone designed to pick up vibrations from solid objects (as opposed to vibrations in the air). Also known as a “pickup” or “piezo,” this microphone is often used as an acoustic guitar pickup to pick up the vibrations from the soundboard, or by experimental musicians creating “noise music” from a variety of objects.
What is a controller?
In the broadest sense, a controller is any device that is used to control another device. Most commonly used in the context of MIDI controllers, which send out MIDI signals to control other connected MIDI instruments and devices. Other examples of controllers in the recording studio can include monitor controllers, DAW controllers and DJ controllers.
What is a corner frequency?
See “Cutoff Frequency.” -
The frequency in a filter beyond which other frequencies are attenuated.
What is a CPU?
Abbreviation for Central Processing Unit, the main “brain” chip in a computer (also known simply as “Processor”).
What is the critical distance?
The distance from the sound source at which the direct sound and the reverberant sound are at equal volume. Critical distance varies according to the space; in a room with absorbent walls, the critical distance will be further from the source, and in a reverberant room, the distance will be closer to the source.
What is a crossfade?
An audio editing technique in which one sound is faded out as another sound is faded in, to create a seamless transition between the two. Audio engineers use crossfading, for example, to blend two takes or more “takes” of a recorded track into a composite take. Club DJs also use crossfading to transition from one song to the next with no stops.
What is crossover?
An audio filter component that splits an audio signal into two or more bands or signals, usually to be fed into different components of a loudspeaker system according to frequency range. (Also called a “crossover network.”)
What is the crossover frequency?
The frequency at which the crossover stops sending the signal to one speaker and starts sending it to another.
What is crosstalk?
The unwanted leakage of an audio signal between two audio channels—for example, overlapping signals between channels on a mixing console, or overlapping audio between two tracks of audiotape.
What is a cue?
In general terms, a cue is the starting point for a piece of music or section of music. Depending on the context, the word “cue” may describe: 1) The point at which a musician or vocalist is supposed to start playing or singing; 2) The audio fed to the musicians through headphones so they can determine when to start playing/singing; 3) A specific location point on the music timeline within a DAW or on the tape; or 4) To set the tape or disc to a certain starting point in the song (“cueing” the tape). A cue can even refer to an entire section of music being used for video production. (Confusing, huh?)
What is the cutoff frequency?
The frequency in a filter beyond which other frequencies are attenuated.
What is the cutoff slope?
The rate of reduction of the frequencies beyond the passband of a filter. The slope is described as the number of dB the filter reduces the signal for each octave past the cutoff frequency.
What is a cycle?
One complete expression of a waveform beginning at a certain point, progressing through the zero line to the wave’s highest and lowest points, and returning to the same value as the starting point. One complete vibration or sound wave.
What is D/A?
Abbreviation for Digital to Analog conversion, which changes digital data numbers (digital audio signal) into discrete voltage level. The reverse process of A/D.
What is daisy chain?
The connection of three or more devices in a series, where the audio signal passes through one device to reach a second, and through the second to reach the third, etc.
What is a D-Sub connector?
Abbreviation for “D-subminiature connector,” a D-sub is a multipin connector that is most often used to connect a computer to a VGA monitor, but also used occasionally in digital audio applications in the recording studio.
What is damping?
The reduction of energy in a vibrating system, through friction. Can refer to the reduced amplitude in an electrical signal, or the stifled vibrations of a musical instrument (for example, the damper pedal on an acoustic piano).
What is damping factor?
Describes an amplifier’s ability to restrain the pushback motion (back-EMF) of the loudspeaker cone when the audio signal stops.
What is a DAW?
An abbreviation for Digital Audio Workstation, a device or software program designed for recording and mixing audio digitally.
What is dB ?
An abbreviation for decibel, a measurement ratio that compares signal strengths (usually audio levels).
What is DBX?
A series of noise reduction systems, named for the company that developed them. DBX noise reduction has been less commercially successful than the more widely known Dolby systems, but is still found on occasion in recording studios.
What is Decay?
The second stage of the four stages of a sound (Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release, or ADSR), the decay of the sound is its gradual reduction in volume after reaching its peak in the attack stage.
What is a decca tree?
A stereo microphone placement technique involving three microphones (usually omnidirectional) placed in a “T” pattern. Commonly used in miking choirs, orchestras and other large ensembles, but variations of the Decca tree technique are also being used today in surround sound situations.
What is a decibel?
(abbreviated “dB“) The ratio measurement of two levels according to a scale where a certain percentage change comprises one unit. Most often used to describe audio levels.
What is a de-esser?
An audio compressor designed to reduce the volume of sibilant sounds and frequencies, especially those produced by pronouncing the letter “s.”
what is degaussing?
The process of demagnetizing an object. In the context of audio, degaussing essentially erases the recording on magnetic tape.
What is a delay?
Delay – 1) An process by which an audio signal is recorded to a medium or device, reproduced at a time delay, then mixed with the original, non-delayed signal to create a variety of effects such as a fuller sound, echo, chorusing, flanging, etc. 2) A signal processor that creates delay effects.
What is a demo?
A preliminary recording that is intended to give the listener an idea of how a song could sound in a final production. A demo usually involves minimal tracking or production, almost like a “rough draft” of a recording.
What does detune mean?
To purposely cause an instrument or signal to play out of tune (usually slightly). This effect can be used for a number of purposes in the studio, but is often used in “double-tracking,” blending the detuned instrument/track with the original to create a fuller sound.
What is dialogue?
The spoken word recorded in film/video sound, commercials and instructional recordings.
What is a diaphragm?
The part of a microphone that moves in response to sound waves, converting them to electrical signals.
What is a Digital Audio Workstation?
(abbreviated DAW) A device or computer software that records and mixes audio digitally and creates digital audio files. A DAW can be a standalone unit or an integrated set of components, but today they are most commonly found as “in-the-box” software programs run from a computer. The most common DAW program found in recording studios is Pro Tools; other commonly used programs include Reason, Ableton and Logic.
What is Digital Recording?
The process of converting audio signals into numbers that represent the waveform, then storing these numbers as data.
What is Digital Signal Processing?
(abbreviated “DSP”) Any signal processing done after an analog audio signal has been converted into digital audio.
What is a Digital to Analog Converter?
(abbreviated D/A) A device that converts the digital data of digital audio into voltage levels that approximate the original analog audio.
What is DIN Stereo?
A stereo microphone placement technique that places two cardioid microphones about 20cm apart and set outward from each other at a 90-degree angle to create a stereo image. Particularly for stereo miking at close ranges. (See also “Near-Coincident Miking.”)
What is a diode?
An electrical component that enables easy electrical current flow in one direction but not the other. In the recording studio, these are commonly found in the vacuum tubes of tube amplifiers.
What is a Direct Box ?
A small device that to converts an unbalanced, high-impedance speaker or instrument-level output to a balanced, low-impedance mic-level output. Frequently used in the signal path connecting electric instruments “directly” to the mixing console, as opposed to miking them acoustically. Also called “direct injection box” or “DI box.”
What is Direct Current?
(abbreviated “DC“) Electrical current that flows in a single direction, as opposed to Alternating Current (AC), which flows in alternating directions. Many electronic devices run on DC, which is usually provided by battery power, USB power or an AC adapter plugged into the wall.
What is Direct Injection?
(abbreviated “DI”) The process of sending an electrical audio signal directly from an instrument to the mixing console through the use of electric pickups or direct boxes, as opposed to using a microphone.
What is Direct Out?
An output available on some consoles which is fed directly from the preamplifier stage of the input, bypassing the channel strips and faders. This feature is often used to send a “dry” signal to a monitor mix or a recording device.
What is Direct Sound ?
The sound that reaches a microphone or a listener’s ear without hitting or bouncing off any obstacles (as opposed to reflected or ambient sound).
What is Directional Pattern ?
1) In microphones, a term meaning the same thing as “Pick Up Pattern,” a description of the area in which a microphone is most sensitive to sounds. 2) In loudspeakers, it is the pattern of dispersion, the area that the sound from a speaker will evenly cover in a listening area.
What is distant miking?
The technique of placing a microphone far from the sound source in order to pick up a combination of the direct and reflected sounds.
What is Dispersion (also Dispersion Angle)?
The area that is effectively covered by the sound coming from a loudspeaker; specifically, the imaginary boundaries on either side of the speaker at which the sound level is 6 dB lower than if you were standing directly in front of the speaker. Each speaker has both a horizontal and vertical dispersion angle.
What is Distortion?
Refers to the deforming of a waveform at the output of a device as compared with the input, usually due to overload, creating a distorted or “dirty” signal. While electrical or audio distortion is typically unwanted and avoided, it is frequently used in controlled situations in audio to create certain desirable effects, particularly with electric guitars and amplifiers.
What is Diversity?
1) In audio settings: the use of two or more antennas in a wireless receiver system to prevent dropouts in the audio from a wireless microphone. 2) In other settings: the embracing of the uniqueness of all individuals.
What is Dolby?
The brand name of a manufacturer of noise reduction systems and other audio systems, to improve performance and fidelity of audio recording, playback, and transmission.
What is Doppler Effect ?
The phenomenon in which the human ear perceives a change in the frequency (pitch) of a sound while the sound source is in motion. As the sound source approaches, the sound waves travel a shorter distance to the ear, increasing the frequency of the waves and the pitch of the sound; as the sound source moves away, the sound waves must travel farther and farther, resulting in lower frequencies. A common example of this effect is an approaching emergency vehicle whose siren sounds higher as it approaches and lower after it passes. The Doppler Effect can be utilized in audio settings, for example, in the Leslie speaker in which an electric motor rotates the speakers inside the cabinet, constantly changing the distance between the sound source and the listener (or microphone) and creating its signature warbling vibrato effect.
What is doubling?
1) To record a second performance closely matching the first performance, for the purpose of blending the two tracks. 2) To use a delay line with medium delay to simulate double tracking.
What is a Driver?
1) A transducer in a loudspeaker that converts electrical signals into sound pressure waves. 2) A computer program that controls an attached device or piece of hardware.
What is Dropout?
A brief loss of audio signal on tape, or a brief loss of data in a digital audio file (often due to a dropped sample), that can result in an unwanted dip in audio, a crackle or a pop
What is a Drum Machine?
An electronic device containing synthesized and/or sampled drum sounds in its memory, along with an internal sequencer that can be programmed to play drum patterns or loops.
What is a Drum Pattern?
A specific sequence of drum sounds played by a drummer or sequenced into a drum machine for use in a song.
What is Dry in audio?
Describes a sound that has no reverberation or ambience, or an audio without any signal processing, as opposed to “wet.” In mixing, many engineers prefer a blend of wet and dry versions of a signal. (See also “Wet.”)
What is Dub (or Dubbing) ?
1) To copy a recording. 2) To record in real time with another recording with the intent of mixing the two recordings (see also “Overdub/Overdubbing”).
What is Ducking?
A compression-based audio effect in which an audio signal is reduced proportionately by the presence of another audio signal, sometimes accomplished through a “sidechain” connection with the signal processor. A notable example is a spoken-word voice-over track recorded over a musical track, where the music drops in volume when the speaker begins to speak. A more subtle example is when an audio engineer “ducks” specific sounds to make room for others in the track; for example, when a bass guitar signal triggers a slight reduction in the level of drums or guitars. (See also “Sidechain.”)
What is a Dynamic Microphone?
(Also called Moving Coil Microphone) A microphone in which sound pressure waves are converted to an electrical audio signal by an induction coil moving within a magnetic field—a process often compared to a loudspeaker working in reverse. Dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser microphones, but can be effective for miking louder sound sources or for close-miking applications.
What is Dynamic Processing/Dynamic Signal Processing?
The process of automatically changing the level (or gain) to alter the level relationship of the loudest audio to the softest audio. Dynamic processors include compressors, limiters, expanders and gates.
What is Dynamic Range ?
1) The ratio (in dB) between the loudest peak and the softest level of a song or recording. 2) The ratio (in dB) between the softest and loudest possible levels a device or system can provide without distortion.
What are Early Reflections ?
The first sound waves that reach a listener’s ear after bouncing off a surface in the room, usually heard almost immediately after the initial sound. The first stage of reverberation.
What is Echo?
The distinct repetition of an initial sound, caused by the reflection of the sound waves upon a surface. We recognize a sound as an echo when the distance between the source and the reflection is far enough apart that we can detect the time delay between one and the other. Essentially, reverberation is the combination of many echoes occurring too rapidly to hear each individually. In the studio, echoes can be reproduced acoustically or simulated by a digital signal processor.
What is an Echo Chamber?
An enclosed room designed with reflective, non-parallel surfaces for the purpose of creating acoustic echoes (reverberation).
What is editing?
To change one or more parameters of a recorded sound after the fact. This can take many forms, including “punching in” a section of the music that is re-recorded to replace the original version; altering the shape/size of waveforms graphically; changing the sequence of playback; and many others. Analog editing would typically involve splicing the magnetic tape on which the audio signals were recorded. These days, almost all editing in the studio is done via computer using a digital audio workstation (DAW).
What are effects?
1) Various ways an audio signal can be modified by adding something to the signal to change the sound. 2) Short for the term Sound Effects (sounds other than dialogue, narration or music like door closings, wind, etc.) added to film or video.
What is an Effects Track?
1) In film production audio, a recording of the mixdown of all the sound effects ready to be mixed with the dialogue and music. 2) In music recording, one track with a recording of effects to be added to another track of a multitrack recording.
What is an Effects Processor?
(Also called Guitar Processor) A device that adds audio effects to a direct guitar signal, such as reverb, chorusing, flanging, delay, overdrive, amplifier simulation, etc. Effects processors can occur as individual effects boxes or multi-sound pedal boards (see also “Foot Pedals,” “Foot Switches”) added into the signal path between the guitar and the console. They can also be found as presets in guitar amplifiers, or even as digital plug-ins within a DAW.
What is an Electret?
A dielectric plate that is designed with permanent polarity, allowing it to function similarly to a magnet. (“Electret” comes from the words “electricity” and “magnet.”) Used in some microphone types in place of a capacitor (condenser).
What is an Electret Microphone?
A variation of condenser microphone that uses an electret instead of a capacitor. (Also called “Electret Condenser Microphone.”) Because the electret is permanently polarized, an electret microphone does not require an external power source as a standard condenser microphone does.
What is the electromagnetic field?
(Abbreviated EMF) A field of magnetic energy put out because of current traveling through a conductor.
What is Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)?
The bane of audio professionals everywhere, EMI is a type of interference caused by nearby electromagnetic activity, which can be picked up by audio cables and equipment, causing unwanted noise, hum or buzz in audio systems. Common causes of EMI in audio systems may include high-current power lines, fluorescent lighting, dimmer switches, computers, video monitors and radio transmitters.
What are Electrons?
Negatively charged particles revolving around the nucleus of an atom. Electrical current is generated by electrons moving along a conductor, like a metallic wire.
What is the Envelope?
The collective term for the four elements of the lifespan of a sound: Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release (ASDR). The envelope of a sound describes how a sound or audio signal varies in intensity over a period of time.
What are Equal Loudness Contours?
A drawing of several curves showing how loud the tones of different frequencies would have to be played for a person to say they were of equal loudness. (See also “Fletcher-Munson Curves.”)
What is an Equalizer?
An audio signal processor that uses one or more filters to boost or cut the amplitude (volume) of certain frequencies within the sound. The underlying principle is to balance or “equalize” the frequency response of the audio system, or to create balance between multiple signals in a sonic space. However, audio engineers may use equalizers to alter or “color” the sound in many different ways.
What is an Expander?
A signal processor (or plug-in) that performs the opposite function of a compressor, expanding the dynamic range of an audio signal rather than compressing it. It accomplishes this by further reducing the amplitude of signals that drop below a set threshold.
What is the Expansion Ratio?
The rate by which an expander attenuates an incoming signal, measured in decibels. For example, an expansion ratio of 2:1 means the expander will reduce the signal by 2dB for every 1dB it drops below the threshold. If the signal falls 3dB below the threshold, the expander attenuates it by 6 dB, and so on.
What is a Fade?
A gradual reduction of the level of the audio signal, or a gradual change of level from one pre-set level to another.
What is a Fader?
A control which adjusts the level (gain or attenuation) of an incoming signal to a channel or grouping of channels on a console.
What is Far Field?
The region away from a loudspeaker at which the sound drops 6dB for each doubling of the distance, up to the critical distance. The beginning of the far field varies according to the size of the speaker, but in most cases the far field begins around 3 feet from the sound source. Audio engineers often use both near field and far field monitoring when fine-tuning a mix. (See also “Critical Distance,” “Near Field.”)
What does feed mean?
To send an audio or control signal to.
What is Feedback?
The return of a portion of the output signal back into the input of a system. This can be done in a controlled manner through a feedback circuit to alter the sound of an instrument (most commonly electric guitars or analog synths). It can also describe the unwanted feedback loop created when an open microphone is picking up the sound from a nearby speaker, generating a loud, oscillating frequency that increases in intensity until the feedback loop is broken by turning off the mic or speaker, or by use of an equalizer to attenuate the frequency.
What is Feedback Control?
The control on a delay line or delay effects device that controls the amount of feedback into the system.
What is Fidelity?
A term describing how accurately a sound is reproduced from its original source.
What is a Figure-8 Pattern?
See “Bi-Directional Pattern.” -A microphone pickup pattern which is most sensitive to picking up sounds directly in front and back of the mic, effectively rejecting sounds coming from the sides.
What is a Filter?
A device that removes or attenuates signals with frequencies above or below the specified cutoff frequency.
What is Flanging?
An audio effect caused by blending the signal with a copy of that signal at a slight time delay, then modifying the delayed copy, creating a “swirling” sound. This was originally accomplished in analog tape recording by playing the original tape and the copy on two tape machines simultaneously, then physically pressing on the flange of one of the machines to alter the timing of the duplicate track. These days, most flanging is done through delay boxes or digital plug-ins.
What is audio flatness?
1) A term used to describe an even frequency response in a device or speaker, meaning that the device/speaker treats all frequencies the same without the need for EQ. When displayed graphically, the frequency response is shown as a “flat” line with no peaks or valleys. 2) In music, describes a note or pitch that is out of tune, sounding at a slightly lower frequency than it should. 3) In music notation, an “accidental” mark that instructs the player to play/sing the note one-half step lower.
What are Fletcher-Munson Curves?
Also known as “Equal Loudness Contours,” a set of graphical curves plotted to illustrate how the human ear responds to different frequencies at different volume levels. Named after the two researchers who first plotted the curves. (See also “Equal Loudness Contours.”)
What is a Floating Unbalanced Line?
A connection “workaround” in which an unbalanced output is connected to a balanced input by modifying the connections in the line to resemble a balanced line, alleviating unwanted hum or buzz.
What does Fly In mean?
To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
What is Foldback?
A stage monitoring system used in live audio. A set of on-stage speakers called monitors or wedges (or “foldback speakers” in British countries) are fed a special mix of audio signals for the onstage performers to hear in order to play. This mix is usually different from the FOH (front-of-house) mix that the audience hears, and is sometimes controlled by a second engineer through amplifiers and speakers separate from the main sound system. This type of stage monitoring is frequently susceptible to feedback from the microphones, and in certain venues can cause unwanted reflective noise that makes it difficult for FOH engineers to create a good mix for the audience. For this reason, many live audio systems now use in-ear monitoring as an alternative to stage monitors to control the onstage noise and reduce the risk of feedback.
What is a Foot Pedal?
An effects device controlled by a musician with their foot.
What is a foot switch?
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
What is a Formant?
An element in the sound of a voice or instrument that does not change frequency as different pitches are sounded. Formants are essentially “fixed” frequencies or resonances that occur as a result of the physical structure of the sound source. These frequencies are what create timbre, that element of sound that creates the specific sound of a guitar, a flute, a male or female voice, etc.
What is Format ?
1) One of many different media used to store and reproduce audio, whether in the recording studio or for listening purposes. Examples include currently used physical formats such as vinyl records and compact discs; obsolete formats such as cassette tape, 8-track tape and DAT; analog recording staples such as reel-to-reel multitrack tape; and many different digital audio file formats such as mp3, WAV, WMA, AIFF and others. 2) Format can also describe specific parameters when recording to analog tape, such as number of tracks, width, spacing and order. 3) To prepare a hard drive or memory card for use, usually erasing all existing data in the process.
What is Frequency?
The number of occurrences of a particular event within a certain amount of time. In audio and acoustics, frequency specifically refers to the number of complete cycles a vibration or waveform makes in a second, measured in cycles per second, or Hertz (Hz). In sound, frequency determines what we hear as pitch. The longer the wavelength, the fewer the cycles per second, and the lower the pitch.
What is Frequency-Agile ?
In wireless microphone systems, frequency-agile describes the ability of the system to operate on a choice of different RF frequencies within a certain bandwidth. Frequency-agile systems are preferred for live touring and in areas with high concentrations of radio signals (like large cities) because the RF frequency of the device can be changed to avoid interference.
What is Frequency Modulation (FM) Synthesis ?
A method of sound synthesis in which the frequencies generated by one oscillator (the carrier) are altered by the output of one or more additional oscillators (operators) to create a diversity of harmonically rich sounds.
What is Frequency-Shift Key (FSK)?
A now out-of-date protocol in which a sync tone is recorded onto a spare track of a multi-track tape recorder to enable electronic devices (mainly drum machines) to perform in sync with the tape. While some older devices still read FSK, an updated protocol (Smart FSK) is now more commonly used. (See also “Smart FSK.”)
What is Frequency Range ?
1) The range of frequencies over which an electronic device puts out a useful signal (see also “Bandwidth”). 2) The range of frequencies that can be substantially transmitted or received in relation to a sound source. Each instrument has a certain frequency range in which it can play; the human ear can also hear within a certain frequency range.
What is frequency response?
The range between high and low frequencies that a component of an audio system can adequately handle, transmit or receive.
What is Front-of-House?
(Abbreviated FOH) In live audio settings, the location in a venue opposite the stage, where live audio for the show is controlled and mixed.
What is the Fundamental?
(Also called fundamental frequency or first harmonic) The lowest frequency present in the sounding of a note by musical instrument or voice.
what is Gain?
1) The amount of increase in audio signal strength, often expressed in dB.
What is Gain Control ?
A device that changes the gain of an amplifier or circuit, often a knob (potentiometer) that can be turned. In a mixing console, each channel usually has its own gain control to regulate the gain of the signal coming into the board—not to be confused with the channel “fader,” which regulates the output of an already-amplified signal.
What is Gain Reduction?
The action of a compressor or limiter in regulating the amplitude of the audio signal.
What is Gain Structure?
A term that describes the interconnection of multiple components in an audio system, and the amount of gain increase or reduction that occurs at each point. A configuration with a good gain structure means that the components are working properly together to provide optimal gain with minimal distortion or noise
What is a Gate?
(Also called Noise Gate) A type of expander that completely (or almost completely) attenuates a signal once it drops below a certain level, rather than simply reducing the level. (See also “Expander.”)
What is Generation?
A term used to describe the number of times that the recorded audio signal has been copied.
What is Generation Loss?
The amount of clarity lost when recorded audio is copied, due to added noise and distortion.
What is the Golden Section – (also called Golden Ratio)?
A ratio of height to width to length, where the width is approximately 1.6 times the height, and the length approximately 2.6 times the height. First calculated by the ancient Greeks, this ratio (known mathematically as “phi”) is used as an optimal ratio in many applications, including room dimensions and studio design (to achieve “optimal acoustics” in the room), and even in the design of certain acoustic instruments.
What is a graphic equalizer?
A type of equalizer that can adjust various frequencies of the incoming signal using sliders that are assigned to specific frequency bands. (See also “Equalizer.”)
What is a Ground Lift Plug?
An adapter that enables a three-prong power cord to plug into two-prong outlet. Some engineers wrongly use this plug to interrupt the ground connection and prevent buzz, but it is a VERY unsafe practice to break the ground connection using this plug without grounding the unit by another means.
What is the Ground Lift Switch?
A switch that breaks the connection between the ground point in one circuit and the ground point in another circuit, for the purpose of eliminating hum or buzz caused by ground loops.
What is a Ground Loop?
A situation caused when one or more electronic devices are connected to the same ground at different points. The devices operate at different ground potentials, which creates voltage along the ground, resulting in a low-frequency hum that can be annoying at best and cause damage to gear at worst. The best resolution for ground loops is to ground all devices at the same point using a central power source. An alternative solution is to break the loop via ground lift switches or plugs, but this should be avoided when possible as it is considered an unsafe management of electricity.
What is Group Delay?
In audio, group delay is a phenomenon within all electronic audio devices (e.g., speakers, amplifiers) in which different frequencies in the signal are output at slight delays from one another. In simpler terms, lower frequencies are delivered slightly more slowly than higher ones. In all devices, there is an inherent delay between input and output of the signal, but group delay specifically deals with the time delays between specific frequencies of the sound. The goal in any configuration is to keep the group delay as small as possible; in cases of extremely poor configurations, the delays between highs and lows can be audible.
What is a Guitar Controller?
An electric guitar (or device played like a guitar) that transmits MIDI data that can be used to control synthesizers and sound modules.
What is Imaging?
Refers to the ability to localize a specific sound within the sound space. In recording environment, it refers to “placing” instruments within the stereo or surround field so that it when the sound is played through speakers, it fools our ears into thinking the sound source is in emanating from a specific point instead of from the speakers. In live audio and sound reinforcement, the principle of imaging is the same, the goal being to make the audience perceive the sounds as coming from performers on the stage, rather than from the speakers.
What is Impedance?
Refers to the resistance of a circuit or device to alternating current, which can be mathematically described as the ratio of voltage to current. Differences in impedance between devices in the studio can affect how they work together. Impedance is abbreviated by the letter Z, and measured in ohms (W).
What is In Phase?
The desirable situation in which two or more devices (and their respective audio signals) are on the same side of the polarity spectrum, producing waveforms that do not conflict or cancel each other out.
What is Inductance?
A characteristic of electrical conductors in which electrical charge (voltage) is produced or stored magnetically due to the natural resistance to change in the electrical current. Inductance is an electromagnetic principle that can either assist in audio applications (as in loudspeakers) or cause resistance (as in using speaker wire whose gauge is too low for the application).
What is an Inductor?
A device (usually a coil of wire) that converts electrical energy into stored magnetic energy as electrical current passes through it. Commonly found in a variety of audio applications such as guitar pickups and loudspeakers.
What is an In Line Console?
An audio mixing console that is designed and configured so each channel strip can be used for both recording and monitoring functions during multitrack recording. This configuration is in contrast to split mixing consoles, which requires separate channels on the board for recording and monitoring functions.
What is an In Port ?
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
What is an Infinite Baffle?
A loudspeaker mount or enclosure designed so that sound waves coming from the front theoretically do not reach the back, preventing the sound waves from cancelling each other out. The term “infinite” comes from the idea that mounting the speaker on a wall with no end points would not allow sound waves to migrate behind it. Of course, this is physically impossible, so infinite baffles are designed to replicate this as much as possible. Examples of infinite baffles are mounting the speaker on a wall of an enclosed room, or building it inside a sealed cabinet large enough to prevent rear sounds from affecting the cone from the back.
What is Input?
The jack or physical location where a device receives a signal. Also refers to the incoming signal itself.
What is Input Impedance?
The opposition to current flow by the first circuits of a device.
What is Input Monitoring?
A setting on many DAWs that allows you to monitor the live input signal coming into the DAW (as opposed to the recorded signal).
What is an Insert?
An access in the signal chain (usually in the mixing console or virtually within a DAW) in which a device, signal processor or digital plug-in can be “inserted” into the circuit between pre-amplification and the channel or bus output. Commonly used to add processing such as reverb, compression or EQ to a channel or group of channels.
What is an Instrument Amplifier ?
A device that has a power amplifier and speaker to reproduce the signal put out by an electric instrument.
What is Instrument Out Direct?
Feeding the output of an electric instrument (like an electric guitar) directly to the recording console or tape recorder, as opposed to miking the amplifier..
What is an Insulator?
A substance such as glass, air, plastic, etc., that will (for all practical purposes) not conduct electricity.
What is an Integrated Circuit?
(Abbreviated “IC”) – A miniature circuit of many components set on semiconductor material, used in electronics. A fancy term for “chip” or “microchip.”
What is an Interface?
Any device or connection point that allows one unit to work, drive or communicate with another unit, or that allows a human to interact with a computer or other electronics. There are many examples of interfaces in professional audio situations, including MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface); audio interfaces which connect audio inputs to your computer; and even your DAW program, which displays a screen that enables you to assign instruments, adjust settings, record, mix and playback. Even the mixing console is an interface of sorts, connecting the many elements of the control room.
What is Intermodulation Distortion?
Distortion caused by two or more audio signals of different frequencies interacting with one another. The sum and difference of the frequencies produce new (usually unwanted frequencies) that didn’t exist in any of the original frequencies.
What is Inverse Square Law?
A mathematical rule that describes an inverse relationship between one quantity and the square of another quantity. In plain English, one number goes down by a certain amount each time the other number doubles. In audio and acoustics, the inverse square law says that in an open sound field with no obstructions, the sound pressure level will drop by half (6dB) each time the distance from the sound source is doubled. (This equation is quite useful to audio engineers trying to provide sound in open-air settings, for example.)
What is I/O ?
An abbreviation for “Input/Output.” In audio, it refers to any device, program or system involving the transferring of electrical/audio signals or data.
What is Isolation?
The process of containing sound within a certain area so that it doesn’t interact with other sounds. For example, acoustically treated isolation booths are often used to record vocals or instruments in the studio to keep outside noises from bleeding into the recording microphone, or likewise to keep vocals or other sounds away from instrument mics during live recording sessions.
What is a Jack?
A connector mounted on the case of a device or on a panel.
What is Jam Sync?
A process available on some clock or syncing devices which reads an external time code and recreates (or “jams”) a new time code identical to the original external code for the syncing of devices. This function is mainly used for replacing code that has become degraded.
What is a Key?
1) In music, the note scale in which a piece of music is written or played, identified by the first note (tonic) of the scale, as in, “Key of C.” 2) The control of a dynamics processing device by an external audio signal through the use of a side chain. 3) A digital or data code that unlocks the use of a device or software. Example: Pro Tools is licensed through an iLok ID via the use of a physical USB key.
What is a Keyboard?
Any musical instrument or computer controlled by pressing a key.
What is a Keyboard Controller?
A piano-styled keyboard that sends out MIDI signals to control other MIDI devices. Most keyboard instruments are equipped with MIDI control capabilities, but dedicated MIDI keyboard controllers emit no audio signals, only MIDI data.
What is kHz?
An abbreviation for kilohertz (1000 Hz, or 1000 cycles per second). Example: 2000 Hz = 2 kHz. Most commonly used in the studio for describing audio frequency ranges or digital sampling rates.
What is Kick/Kick Drum?
The bass drum on a trap drum set, so called because it is played with a kick pedal.
What is a knee?
A function on a compressor that determines how abruptly or gradually compression begins once the sound level crosses the threshold. So-called because the graphic “bend” in the response curve is reminiscent of a knee. “Hard knee” refers to an abrupt activation of the compressor, while “soft knee” refers to a more gradual change.
What is Layering?
Refers to almost any blending of similar multiple musical parts or sounds at once, often combined on one channel or assigned to one controller. In audio recording, layering usually involves recording similar takes of the same instrument or vocal (or duplicating parts with slight delays or chorusing effects) to create a fuller, richer sound than the vocal/instrument by itself. In sound design, it also refers to blending multiple samples (example: two or more drum sounds) to create a fuller sound.
What is Lead?
The musical instrument that plays the melody, including the vocal.
What is a Lead Sheet?
A shorthand form of music notation (similar to a chord chart) that displays the basic essential elements of a song so musicians can follow along without the full notation of every note or expression. Lead sheets most commonly include a melody line written in music notation with chord changes above the staff, and lyrics below it. (See also “Chord Chart.”)
What is Leakage?
Sounds from other instruments and sound sources that were not intended to be picked up by the microphone.
What is a Level?
The amount of signal strength; the amplitude, especially the average amplitude.
What is a Limiter?
A type of compressor that sharply reduces (limits) the gain of the signal when the audio level reaches a certain threshold, typically used to prevent overload and signal peaking. A compressor effectively becomes a limiter when its ratio is 10:1 or higher. (See also “Compressor.”)
What is Line Input (“Line In”)?
An input designed to take a line level signal.
What is Line Level?
The standard audio signal level that runs through interconnecting cables in the studio or sound system, before the signal is amplified and sent to the speakers. Line level is often described in comparison to mic level or instrument level (which usually require preamplification to bring them up to line level).
What is Line Output (“Line Out”)?
Any output that sends out a line level signal, such as the output of a console that feeds a recorder.
What is Live?
1) A term describing a space with a reverberant or reflected sound. In a “live” space, the sound waves are active or “live.” 2) Occurring in real time, as opposed to previously recorded.
What is a Live Room?
The large, main room of the recording studio where most of the instruments and/or vocalists perform. So called, not just because there is room for live performances, but because the room has been acoustically treated to produce a pleasing amount of live reverberation.
What is Live Recording?
A recording session where all the musicians are playing at once with no overdubbing.
What is Local On/Off ?
A MIDI message that controls the internal sound module of a synthesizer or MIDI controller. “Local On” triggers the internal module when the keyboard is played; “Local Off” disconnects it. “Local Off” is frequently used to prevent unwanted looping of MIDI messages in some configurations, or when controlling the internal module via another controller.
What is a Loop?
1) Effectively, any piece of music or data that repeats endlessly. Before digital audio and sampling, loops were created by looping tape. Today, loops are used in samples to sustain a sampled note for as long as the note is triggered, while drum loops and other music loops are common in modern music production. 2) Another term for antinode, or the points of maximum displacement of motion in a vibrating stretched string or a sound wave. (See also “Standing Wave.”)
What is Loudness?
A term referring to how the human ear perceives incoming sound waves. This term seems self-explanatory, but it’s deceptive. We commonly think of loudness as it relates to the volume of a sound, but this is an indirect relationship. In acoustic terms, volume is more about the amplitude of the sound waves, while loudness describes how our ears hear the intensity of those waves.
What is an Low-Frequency Oscillator (LFO) ?
A circuit that emits low-frequency electronic waveforms below the audible level of human hearing (20 Hz or less). This low-frequency waveform creates a rhythmic pulse that is used to modulate various parameters in the audio signal, such as pitch or volume. LFOs are frequently used in samplers, synthesizers and signal processors to create such effects as vibrato, tremolo, and phasing.
What is Low Impedance?
(abbreviated Lo-Z) Described as impedance of 500 ohms or less. (See also “Impedance.”)
What is a Low-Pass Filter?
An audio filter or device that attenuates signals above a certain frequency (the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are lower than the cut-off.
What are Lows or Low-End?
Short for “low frequencies,” loosely referring to bass-frequency signals below 250 Hz. Usually meant in the context of “highs, mids and lows” in an audio signal.
What is magnetic tape?
Recording tape consisting of a plastic strip coated by magnetic materials, finely ground iron oxide (rust) particles. Commonly used for analog recording.
What is Magnetism?
A natural attractive energy of iron based-materials toward other iron-based materials.
What is the margin?
See “Headroom.” - The difference in dB between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device. Also describes the difference in dB between the peak levels of a recording and the point at which the signal distorts. (Also called “Margin.”)
What is Mid-Side Miking?
(Abbreviated M/S) A stereo coincident microphone placement technique in which one cardioid pattern microphone is aimed directly at the sound source, and a bi-directional microphone placed sideways and as close as possible to the first mic.
Near-Coincident Miking
A stereo miking technique in which two microphones are placed near each other at an outward angle to create a stereo image (as opposed to “Coincident Miking” which angles the microphones toward each other). Common versions of near-coincident miking include DIN stereo (90-degree angle, 20cm apart), NOS stereo (90-degree angle, 30 cm apart) and ORTF (110-degree angle, 17 cm apart).
What is Phone Plug (Jack)?
A plug (or its mating jack) with a diameter of 1/4 inch and a length of I 1/4 inches used for interconnecting audio.
What is Plate Reverb?
A device that produces artificial reverberation by sending vibrations across a metal plate via a transducer similar to a speaker driver. Physical plate reverbs today are considered a vintage form of artificial reverb; nowadays, most plate reverb effects are emulated digitally by plugins or reverb units.
What is an RCA Plug (jack)?
(Also called Phono Plug) A common audio connector found on most stereo systems with a center pin as one connection and an outer shell as the second connection.
what is spaced pair?
(Also called “A/B Technique“) A stereo microphone placement technique in which two cardioid or omnidirectional microphones are spaced somewhere between 3-10 feet apart from each other (depending on the size of the sound source) to create a left/right stereo image.
what is Spring Reverb?
A device that simulates reverberation by creating vibrations within a metal spring by attaching it to a transducer and sending the audio signal through it. A pickup at the other end converts those vibrations into an electrical signal which is mixed with the original audio signal. While the physical spring reverbs still exist, most studios emulate spring reverb with the use of plug-ins or hardware reverb units.
what is XY Miking?
A coincident stereo microphone placement technique in which two cardioid microphones are placed with their heads toward each other at a 90-degree angle, and as close together as possible. (See also “Coincident Miking.”)
