technological developments 8 Flashcards
What is a DJ deck/mixer?
- A combination of devices to play sound recordings, for alternating back and forth to create a continuous playback of music:
- A multiple sequencer which can mix MIDI tracks with digital audio
- A sound system for amplification or broadcasting of the recordings (for example – portable audio system, PA system) or a radio broadcasting system.
- An audio mixer equipped with a cross-fader used to smoothly go from one song to another, using two or more playback devices.
- Headphones, used to listen to one recording while the other recording is being played to the audience, or to listen to both recordings simultaneously.
How the DJ deck/mixer developed?
- Alex Rosner built the first DJ Mixer, ‘Rosie’ in 1965.
- In the 1960s beat matching was popularized by Francis Grasso in New York.
DJ deck/mixer key features?
- DJ Decks are conventionally two, or in some cases more, turntables for playing stereo vinyl.
- Each turntable is connected to a separate channel on the DJ mixer. This enables the DJ to cue up the next track while the first one is still playing
- The DJ will listen into the next record through headphones and attempt to beat match between songs.
When was the Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records invented/released?
1943
How the Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records works?
The system works by engraving a copy of an acoustic waveform into a hard but pliable medium such as vinyl. A needle, or stylus, then moves laterally in the groove as the disc is rotated. This mechanical movement can be converted via electromagnetism into sound, aiming to be as close to the original as possible.
The Vinyl Discs?
- Vinyl LPs are still in demand today, being noted for its warm sound.
- Many dance producers use original vinyl records as their preferred source from sampling
- Most major record companies have ceased to produce vinyl as it is not as durable or easily editable when compared to digital media and is overall more expensive.
How the Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records developed?
-1960s & 70s: Vinyl was the dominant source of recorded music throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
- late 1980s: In the late 1980s digital recordings in the shape of CDs overtook vinyl sales.
Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records key features?
- These were made from polyvinyl chloride plastic.
- Vinyl LPs played at 331/3 RPM
- Singles and Eps played at 45 RPM
- These analogue mediums of reproducing recorded music are referred to as ‘records’.
Advantages of Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records?
- Warm sounds
- Easy to locate music (possible to jump sections, unlike having to use fast-forward and rewind on the cassette)
- LP cover artwork was admired
- Dance music DJs able to directly manipulate the sound by techniques such as scratching, beatmatching, slip-cuing and controlling the speed of the turntable.
Disadvantages of Vinyl LPs and 45 RPM Records?
- Easily damaged through scratching, dirt on the surface or warping
- Repeated playings lead to product wearing out and decrease in clarity
- LPs are bulky and not very portable
- Not fully discrete channel separation
- Pitch variations possible depending on quality of motor for turntable
- Outside electrical interference could be amplified by the magnetic cartridge
When was the virtual instrument invented/released?
1970
What are Virtual Instruments?
- Virtual instruments are usually cheaper and more portable than quality instruments, and easier to interface with music software.
- They also allow a non-expert to include the sound of an instrument without the technical ability to play the instrument.
How virtual instruments developed.
There are numerous sequencers available at the moment, which include virtual instrument features.
- Cubase
- Logic
- Reaper etc
Reaper was initially released by Cockos in 2006.
Virtual instruments key features?
A Virtual instrument is a software application that enables the user to produce or play sounds on a computer.
When was the wax cylinder invented/released?
1877
