Flashcards
Key Technology Terms
Cards in this deck (18)
- 1Frequency responseHow a mic responds to different frequencies. E.g: frequency response which favours high frequencies = more trebly output.
- 2Transient responseThe measure of accuracy with which an audio system reproduces transients. E.g: hit of a snare may have a 12-15dB above average signal level.
- 3TransientA sudden high amplitude that decays quickly to average program level e.g: percussion instrument beats.
- 4CapacitorAn electronic component which stores energy in the form of an electrostatic field.
- 5Phantom powerA means of distributing DC current through audio cables to provide 12-48V to mics and other equipment.
- 6ExpandersReduces signal levels that fall below the threshold to expand dynamic range. Generally used to reduce background noise.
- 7Noise gateAn extreme form of expander used to reduce background noise to silence. Uses a ratio closely set to infinity symbol:1.
- 8LimiterA more extreme form of compressor designed to quickly reduce the signal so it doesn't damage equipment. It has a short attack and release and ratio close to infinity symbol:1.
- 9Drum machinesUse a combination of sampling and synthesis to imitate real drums.
Often used instead of a professional drummer if they're unavailable - 10MIDIThis stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. The standard protocol for drum tracks is 10.
- 11MIDI chokeThe condition that occurs when a MIDI sender, such as a sequencer, tries to send data at a rate exceeding what the cable is capable of transmitting. This may be done deliberately to avoid too much data being sent through.
- 12ExpressionThis is a MIDI parameter different to overall volume because it controls parts within the instrumental melody instead of the overall volume level.
- 13PhaseMeasured in degrees from 0-360, this compares the timing of 2 similar sound waves. If waves of the same frequency sound simultaneously they're in phase (0 degrees). This produces a stronger sound. If they're out of phase (180 degrees) they are exactly opposite an cancel each other out to produce virtual silence (phase cancellation).
- 14Fundamental harmonicThis is the lowest strongest part of the sound - AKA the pitch.
- 15HarmonicsEvery sound has higher, softer overtones. These occur at regular integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. We hear this as timbre.
- 16Signal to noise ratioThis is the difference between the nominal recording level and noise floor (the level of electrical activity or noise present in a system). The nominal level is the ideal level for the device usually labelled as 0dB. In order to avoid amplifying noise it is important to record at around this level.
- 17HeadroomSpace above the nominal level which allows for louder but not distorted signal. Having this space helps to manage the sound levels and maintain dynamic interest.
- 18DistortionThis can be achieved by overdriving the audio circuit so the signal shape distorts. This can add warmth to the recording. However, in post-production this should be avoided.
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- A Levels Music Tech (Technology) Flashcards on Key Technology Terms, created by Hazel Meades on 25/02/2014.
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- Hazel Meades
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