A substance such as glass, air, plastic, etc., that will (for all practical purposes) not conduct electricity.
Boost
To increase gain, especially to increase gain at specific frequencies with an equalizer.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Buss (Bus)
A wire carrying signals to some place, usually fed from several sources.
Leakage
Sounds from other instruments and sources that were not intended to be picked up by the microphone.
Brooks Cinema Series Clip
The action of deforming a waveform during overload.
Floor Toms
The large toms to the right of the drummer.
Frets
Vertical metal wires which sit vertically on the guitar neck.
Input Overload
Sending too high of a signal level into a device so that the first amplifier of the device overloads.
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Monday, May 30, 2022
Brooks XB 22 Amplitude
The extreme range of a signal. Usually measured from the average to the extreme.
Frets
Vertical metal wires which sit vertically on the guitar neck.
Brooks KS-55 Atom
The smallest particle which makes up a specific substance. It's composed of a center around which electrons revolve.
Chase
The automatic adjusting of the speed of a recorder (or sequencer) to be time with another recorder.
Brooks Cinema Series Active/Inactive Microphones
Scientific definitions aside, active microphones generally sound better than inactive ones, but they generally cost more. They also require the use of either a battery or phantom power while inactive mics need only be plugged into the mic cord in order to work. In most playing situations, the subtle improvement in sound quality from an active mic isn't worth the extra cost and hassle. One possible exception it the headset mic. Put simply, inactive headset mics just plain suck. Active headset mics put out a much stronger signal and feed back much less.
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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Frets
Vertical metal wires which sit vertically on the guitar neck.
Brooks KS-55 Atom
The smallest particle which makes up a specific substance. It's composed of a center around which electrons revolve.
Chase
The automatic adjusting of the speed of a recorder (or sequencer) to be time with another recorder.
Brooks Cinema Series Active/Inactive Microphones
Scientific definitions aside, active microphones generally sound better than inactive ones, but they generally cost more. They also require the use of either a battery or phantom power while inactive mics need only be plugged into the mic cord in order to work. In most playing situations, the subtle improvement in sound quality from an active mic isn't worth the extra cost and hassle. One possible exception it the headset mic. Put simply, inactive headset mics just plain suck. Active headset mics put out a much stronger signal and feed back much less.
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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Sunday, May 29, 2022
Brooks GT 845 Electromagnetic Induction or Pick Up
The generation of electrical signal in a conductor moving in a magnetic field or being close to a changing magnetic field.
Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Keyboard Controller
A device that has the standard music keys of piano but puts out MIDI signals
Delay
Outboard sound equipment that can momentarily stores a signal being sent to part of a P.A. system so that delayed reinforced sound reaches the audience at the same time as live sound from the stage.
Brooks GT 845 Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Assistant Engineer
A less elevated version of the term Second Engineer. Experienced seconds often place microphones, operate tape machines, break down equipment at the session end and keep the paperwork for the session.
Images
The squaring of the waveform that happens in the conversion of digital audio bits into analog signals.
Bulk Dump
Short for System Exclusive Bulk Dump (a method of transmitting data, such as the internal parameters of a MIDI device to another MIDI device).
Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Keyboard Controller
A device that has the standard music keys of piano but puts out MIDI signals
Delay
Outboard sound equipment that can momentarily stores a signal being sent to part of a P.A. system so that delayed reinforced sound reaches the audience at the same time as live sound from the stage.
Brooks GT 845 Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Assistant Engineer
A less elevated version of the term Second Engineer. Experienced seconds often place microphones, operate tape machines, break down equipment at the session end and keep the paperwork for the session.
Images
The squaring of the waveform that happens in the conversion of digital audio bits into analog signals.
Bulk Dump
Short for System Exclusive Bulk Dump (a method of transmitting data, such as the internal parameters of a MIDI device to another MIDI device).
Saturday, May 28, 2022
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Linearity
The extent to which any signal handling process is accomplished without amplitude distortion.
Jam Sync
A generation of new SMPTE according to the input SMPTE signal
Brooks BA 71 Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
Fader
A control to control the gain of a channel on the console, thereby determining the level of the signal in that channel.
Brooks Speakers Impedance
1) A term for the electrical resistance found in a/c circuits. Affects the ability of a cable to transmit low level (e.g. sound) signals over a long distance. Measured in Ohms. Speakers are rated according to power handling capabilities (Watts, W) and impedance (Ohms).
2) The total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms. Remember that a speaker's impedance changes with frequency, it is not a constant value.
3) The opposition to alternating current.
Compression Ratio
How many dB the input signal has to rise above the threshold for every one dB more output of a compressor or limiter.
Direct box
Used in line to convert a high impedance signal into a low impedance signal.
Group Master
A slide control used to send out a control voltage to several VCA faders in individual channels, thus controlling the gain of several channels.
Jam Sync
A generation of new SMPTE according to the input SMPTE signal
Brooks BA 71 Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
Fader
A control to control the gain of a channel on the console, thereby determining the level of the signal in that channel.
Brooks Speakers Impedance
1) A term for the electrical resistance found in a/c circuits. Affects the ability of a cable to transmit low level (e.g. sound) signals over a long distance. Measured in Ohms. Speakers are rated according to power handling capabilities (Watts, W) and impedance (Ohms).
2) The total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms. Remember that a speaker's impedance changes with frequency, it is not a constant value.
3) The opposition to alternating current.
Compression Ratio
How many dB the input signal has to rise above the threshold for every one dB more output of a compressor or limiter.
Direct box
Used in line to convert a high impedance signal into a low impedance signal.
Group Master
A slide control used to send out a control voltage to several VCA faders in individual channels, thus controlling the gain of several channels.
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Brooks Cinema Series Linear
The condition of obtaining a change at the output of the device which is proportional to the change occurring at the input.
Distorted
The way your PA sounds just before it blows up. Fuzzy and scratchy. If you hear this, it either means you have something hooked up wrong, or something in the system is going bad. It could be anything from your super expensive soundboard to a five dollar patch cord.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Crossover (Crossover Network)
A set of filters that "split" the audio signal into two or more bands (two or more signals, each of which have only some of the frequencies present).
Flange
An effect caused by an approximately even mix of a modulated (varying) short delay with the direct signal.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 File
A collection of digital data stored in a computer's memory bank or on a floppy disc.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Contact Microphone
A device that senses vibrations and puts out an audio signal proportional to the vibrations.
Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Distorted
The way your PA sounds just before it blows up. Fuzzy and scratchy. If you hear this, it either means you have something hooked up wrong, or something in the system is going bad. It could be anything from your super expensive soundboard to a five dollar patch cord.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Crossover (Crossover Network)
A set of filters that "split" the audio signal into two or more bands (two or more signals, each of which have only some of the frequencies present).
Flange
An effect caused by an approximately even mix of a modulated (varying) short delay with the direct signal.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 File
A collection of digital data stored in a computer's memory bank or on a floppy disc.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Contact Microphone
A device that senses vibrations and puts out an audio signal proportional to the vibrations.
Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Brooks Cinema GT 845 Cascade
To set and interconnect two mixers so that the stereo mixing buss(es) of the first mixer feeds the stereo buss(es) of a second mixer.
Attenuator (Pot)
The electronic dohickey under the knobs that increases or reduces the strength of the signal running through it. When these get old and dirty, they can make popping noises or rumbles in your PA (As in "my pots are dirty").
Assign Tochoose to which place an output is going to be sent.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Limiter
A device which reduces gain when the input voltage exceeds a certain level.
Barrier Micing
A method of placing the head of a microphone as close as possible to a reflective surface, preventing phase cancellation.
Brooks VT-50 Expander
A device that causes expansion of the audio signal.
Alternating Current
Electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
High Impedance Cord (High Z)
A big word for instrument cable. These cords generally have quarter inch male ends. they tend to loose signal strength at lengths longer than 25 feet.
Attenuator (Pot)
The electronic dohickey under the knobs that increases or reduces the strength of the signal running through it. When these get old and dirty, they can make popping noises or rumbles in your PA (As in "my pots are dirty").
Assign Tochoose to which place an output is going to be sent.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Limiter
A device which reduces gain when the input voltage exceeds a certain level.
Barrier Micing
A method of placing the head of a microphone as close as possible to a reflective surface, preventing phase cancellation.
Brooks VT-50 Expander
A device that causes expansion of the audio signal.
Alternating Current
Electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
High Impedance Cord (High Z)
A big word for instrument cable. These cords generally have quarter inch male ends. they tend to loose signal strength at lengths longer than 25 feet.
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Brooks KM 77 In Port
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
Interface
Any device that allows one unit to work, drive or communicate with another unit when they cannot do so by just feeding each other often because the units are manufactured by different companies.
Brooks KS-55 Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Acoustic Amplifier
The portion of the instrument which makes the vibrating source move more air or move air more efficiently; this makes the sound of the instrument louder. Examples of acoustic amplifiers include:
1) The body of an acoustic guitar,
2) The sounding board of a piano,
3) The bell of a horn and
4) The shell of a drum.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 High Impedance Mic
A microphone designed to be fed into an amplifier with input impedance greater than 20 k ohms.
Bit
The smallest unit of digital information representing a single "0" or 1.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Howlback
British term for the term Feedback (the pickup of the signal out of a channel by the input of the channel or the howling sound that this produces).
Interface
Any device that allows one unit to work, drive or communicate with another unit when they cannot do so by just feeding each other often because the units are manufactured by different companies.
Brooks KS-55 Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Acoustic Amplifier
The portion of the instrument which makes the vibrating source move more air or move air more efficiently; this makes the sound of the instrument louder. Examples of acoustic amplifiers include:
1) The body of an acoustic guitar,
2) The sounding board of a piano,
3) The bell of a horn and
4) The shell of a drum.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 High Impedance Mic
A microphone designed to be fed into an amplifier with input impedance greater than 20 k ohms.
Bit
The smallest unit of digital information representing a single "0" or 1.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Howlback
British term for the term Feedback (the pickup of the signal out of a channel by the input of the channel or the howling sound that this produces).
Monday, May 23, 2022
Brooks QS 70 Capacitor
1) A device consisting of two or more conducting plates separated from one another by an insulating material and used for storing an electrical charge. Sometimes called a condenser.
2) An electronic device that is composed of two plates separated by an insulator.
Analog To Digital Converter
The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
Brooks TA 60 Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
Acoustic Amplifier
The portion of the instrument which makes the vibrating source move more air or move air more efficiently; this makes the sound of the instrument louder. Examples of acoustic amplifiers include:
1) The body of an acoustic guitar,
2) The sounding board of a piano,
3) The bell of a horn and
4) The shell of a drum.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Consumer Format (Consumer DIF)
A standard adopted by IEC for sending and receiving digital audio based on The AES Professional Interface.
Keyboard
1) Any musical instrument controlled by pressing a key.
2) The part of the computer that has the keys.
Baffles
Sound absorbing panels used to prevent sound waves from entering or leaving a certain space
2) An electronic device that is composed of two plates separated by an insulator.
Analog To Digital Converter
The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
Brooks TA 60 Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
Acoustic Amplifier
The portion of the instrument which makes the vibrating source move more air or move air more efficiently; this makes the sound of the instrument louder. Examples of acoustic amplifiers include:
1) The body of an acoustic guitar,
2) The sounding board of a piano,
3) The bell of a horn and
4) The shell of a drum.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Consumer Format (Consumer DIF)
A standard adopted by IEC for sending and receiving digital audio based on The AES Professional Interface.
Keyboard
1) Any musical instrument controlled by pressing a key.
2) The part of the computer that has the keys.
Baffles
Sound absorbing panels used to prevent sound waves from entering or leaving a certain space
Sunday, May 22, 2022
Brooks XT 20 Horn
1) The part of the speaker that emits midrange and higher range frequencies.
2) A speaker or speaker enclosure where sound waves are put into a narrow opening (by a speaker cone or driver) and the narrow opening flairs out to a larger opening.
Guitar Controller
An electric guitar or device played like an electric guitar that puts out MIDI signals that can be used to control synthesizers and sound modules.
Brooks QS-70 Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Ambient Field
A term with the same meaning as the term Reverberant Field (the area away from the sound source where the reverberation is louder than the direct sound).
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Clicking
Pressing and immediately releasing the switch on a computer's mouse.
2) A speaker or speaker enclosure where sound waves are put into a narrow opening (by a speaker cone or driver) and the narrow opening flairs out to a larger opening.
Guitar Controller
An electric guitar or device played like an electric guitar that puts out MIDI signals that can be used to control synthesizers and sound modules.
Brooks QS-70 Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Ambient Field
A term with the same meaning as the term Reverberant Field (the area away from the sound source where the reverberation is louder than the direct sound).
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Clicking
Pressing and immediately releasing the switch on a computer's mouse.
Saturday, May 21, 2022
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Gain Reduction
The working of a limiter or compressor reducing gain during high-level passages.
Initialize
To prepare a digital storage medium (like a floppy disk) so that it will accept and store digital information bits.
Brooks VT-50 Instrument Amplifier
A device that has a power amplifier and speaker in a case (or in separate cases) to reproduce the signal put out by an electric instrument (such as an electric guitar) and to allow the instrument to be heard.
Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Brooks Cinema XB 33 Ground Loop
A double grounding of a line or electronic device at two different "ground" points of differing voltage.
Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Error Concealment
Putting replacement information bits into a digital audio signal to replace lost bits when the digital recording or processing system cannot verify whether the lost bits were l's or 0's but can make a good guess by comparing the known bits that were close in position to the lost bits.
Initialize
To prepare a digital storage medium (like a floppy disk) so that it will accept and store digital information bits.
Brooks VT-50 Instrument Amplifier
A device that has a power amplifier and speaker in a case (or in separate cases) to reproduce the signal put out by an electric instrument (such as an electric guitar) and to allow the instrument to be heard.
Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Brooks Cinema XB 33 Ground Loop
A double grounding of a line or electronic device at two different "ground" points of differing voltage.
Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Error Concealment
Putting replacement information bits into a digital audio signal to replace lost bits when the digital recording or processing system cannot verify whether the lost bits were l's or 0's but can make a good guess by comparing the known bits that were close in position to the lost bits.
Friday, May 20, 2022
Brooks KS-55 Consumer Format (Consumer DIF)
A standard adopted by IEC for sending and receiving digital audio based on The AES Professional Interface.
Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Brooks GT 845 Foot Pedal
1) An effects device where the amount of the effect can be controlled by a musician with his foot.
2) The beater mechanism of a foot drum that is activated by the drummer's foot to play the drum.
3) Any device, like a volume control, that can be operated by the foot.
Fundamental
The tuned frequency and (almost always) the lowest frequency that is present in the sounding of a pitch by a musical instrument.
Brooks QS-70 Linear
The condition of obtaining a change at the output of the device which is proportional to the change occurring at the input.
Binary
A numbering system based on two. In binary there are two symbols used ("l" and "0").
Basic Session
The First session in recording an audio production to record the Basic Tracks.
CPU
Abbreviation of Central Processing Unit (The main "brain" chip of a computer or the main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip).
Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Brooks GT 845 Foot Pedal
1) An effects device where the amount of the effect can be controlled by a musician with his foot.
2) The beater mechanism of a foot drum that is activated by the drummer's foot to play the drum.
3) Any device, like a volume control, that can be operated by the foot.
Fundamental
The tuned frequency and (almost always) the lowest frequency that is present in the sounding of a pitch by a musical instrument.
Brooks QS-70 Linear
The condition of obtaining a change at the output of the device which is proportional to the change occurring at the input.
Binary
A numbering system based on two. In binary there are two symbols used ("l" and "0").
Basic Session
The First session in recording an audio production to record the Basic Tracks.
CPU
Abbreviation of Central Processing Unit (The main "brain" chip of a computer or the main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip).
Thursday, May 19, 2022
Brooks XT 20 Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
High Impedance
Impedance of 5000 or more ohms.
Brooks XB 22 Fret Buzz
A buzzing sound made when a note is not properly fretted. Common with cheap guitars or beginning guitar players.
Far Field
The area from 3 feet away from the sound source up to the critical distance.
Brooks VT-50 Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Feedback Control
The control on a delay line or delay effects device that controls the amount of feedback.
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Joystick
1) A quad pan pot which distributes what percentage of on signal is sent to each of 4 outputs.
2) A control that is separately controlling two functions at one time.
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
High Impedance
Impedance of 5000 or more ohms.
Brooks XB 22 Fret Buzz
A buzzing sound made when a note is not properly fretted. Common with cheap guitars or beginning guitar players.
Far Field
The area from 3 feet away from the sound source up to the critical distance.
Brooks VT-50 Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Feedback Control
The control on a delay line or delay effects device that controls the amount of feedback.
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Joystick
1) A quad pan pot which distributes what percentage of on signal is sent to each of 4 outputs.
2) A control that is separately controlling two functions at one time.
Wednesday, May 18, 2022
Brooks BA 71 AC
1) Abbreviation for alternating current.
2) An abbreviation of the term Alternating Current (electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit; all studio signals running through audio lines are AC).
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Brooks QS 70 Balanced
1) Having a pleasing amount of low frequencies compared to mid-range frequencies and high frequencies. 2) Having a pleasing mixture of the various instrument levels in an audio recording. 3) Having a fairly equal level in each of the stereo channels. 4) A method of interconnecting electronic gear using three-conductor cables.
Humbucker
Pickups that are coupled together to get a certain sound.
Brooks TA 60 Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
2) An abbreviation of the term Alternating Current (electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit; all studio signals running through audio lines are AC).
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Brooks QS 70 Balanced
1) Having a pleasing amount of low frequencies compared to mid-range frequencies and high frequencies. 2) Having a pleasing mixture of the various instrument levels in an audio recording. 3) Having a fairly equal level in each of the stereo channels. 4) A method of interconnecting electronic gear using three-conductor cables.
Humbucker
Pickups that are coupled together to get a certain sound.
Brooks TA 60 Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
Tuesday, May 17, 2022
Brooks XB 22 Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Brooks Cinema TX 509 Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Fundamental
The tuned frequency and (almost always) the lowest frequency that is present in the sounding of a pitch by a musical instrument.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Boost
To increase gain, especially to increase gain at specific frequencies with an equalizer.
Half Step
A pitch difference of the amount that is present between adjacent keys on a piano.
Amplitude
The height of a waveform above or below the zero line.
Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
Brooks Cinema TX 509 Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Fundamental
The tuned frequency and (almost always) the lowest frequency that is present in the sounding of a pitch by a musical instrument.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Boost
To increase gain, especially to increase gain at specific frequencies with an equalizer.
Half Step
A pitch difference of the amount that is present between adjacent keys on a piano.
Amplitude
The height of a waveform above or below the zero line.
Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
Monday, May 16, 2022
Brooks Speakers Half Step
A pitch difference of the amount that is present between adjacent keys on a piano.
Cable, XLR
A balanced cable used for low impedance microphones and sometimes for connections between some parts of the PA. Commonly referred to as a "mic cord".
Brooks GT 845 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Action
In guitar playing, action refers to how far the strings sit off of the guitar neck. When strings are close to the neck, it is referred to as "Low Action". When the string sit far above the neck, it is called "High Action". Guitars with low action are easier to play, but make sure they are not too close, or it could causing buzzing.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Boom Stand
A microphone stand equipped with a telescoping support arm to hold the microphone.
Cable, XLR
A balanced cable used for low impedance microphones and sometimes for connections between some parts of the PA. Commonly referred to as a "mic cord".
Brooks GT 845 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Action
In guitar playing, action refers to how far the strings sit off of the guitar neck. When strings are close to the neck, it is referred to as "Low Action". When the string sit far above the neck, it is called "High Action". Guitars with low action are easier to play, but make sure they are not too close, or it could causing buzzing.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Boom Stand
A microphone stand equipped with a telescoping support arm to hold the microphone.
Sunday, May 15, 2022
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Kilo
A prefix meaning 1000.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Brooks VT-50 High Frequencies
The audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above.
CPU
Abbreviation of Central Processing Unit (The main "brain" chip of a computer or the main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip).
Brooks GT 845 Hearing Limitation
An inability of the ear to hear important characteristics of sound under certain conditions. Characteristics that can be affected include pitch, level, clarity, presence and direction.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Light Emitting Diode
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Final Mix
The two track stereo master tape which was mixed from the multitrack master.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Brooks VT-50 High Frequencies
The audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above.
CPU
Abbreviation of Central Processing Unit (The main "brain" chip of a computer or the main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip).
Brooks GT 845 Hearing Limitation
An inability of the ear to hear important characteristics of sound under certain conditions. Characteristics that can be affected include pitch, level, clarity, presence and direction.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Light Emitting Diode
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Final Mix
The two track stereo master tape which was mixed from the multitrack master.
Saturday, May 14, 2022
Brooks RM 80 Ground Lifter
An adapter that takes a three prong power cord and plugs into a two prong outlet, used to disconnect the third (ground) pin of the power outlet. WARNING: It can be VERY DANGEROUS to have no ground connection to the case by using a ground lifter and not grounding the unit by other means.
Level
The amount of signal strength; the amplitude, especially the average amplitude.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Field
1) In video, one half of a frame.
2) In computer-controlled devices a window display with functions and choices that the operator can make
Compression Ratio
How many dB the input signal has to rise above the threshold for every one dB more output of a compressor or limiter.
Brooks KS-55 Flutter
1) High-frequency variations in pitch of a recorded waveform due to fast speed variations in a recorder or playback machine.
2) Originally, and more formally, any variations (fast or slow) in pitch of a recorded tone due to speed fluctuations in a recorder or playback unit.
Channels
These are divided into two separate categories. Input channels are those channels coming into the soundboard such as microphones and direct lines. Output channels are those leaving the board such as monitor and main outputs.
Axis
A line around which a device operates. Example: In a microphone, this would be an imaginary line coming out from the front of the microphone in the direction of motion of the diaphragm.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Level
The amount of signal strength; the amplitude, especially the average amplitude.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Field
1) In video, one half of a frame.
2) In computer-controlled devices a window display with functions and choices that the operator can make
Compression Ratio
How many dB the input signal has to rise above the threshold for every one dB more output of a compressor or limiter.
Brooks KS-55 Flutter
1) High-frequency variations in pitch of a recorded waveform due to fast speed variations in a recorder or playback machine.
2) Originally, and more formally, any variations (fast or slow) in pitch of a recorded tone due to speed fluctuations in a recorder or playback unit.
Channels
These are divided into two separate categories. Input channels are those channels coming into the soundboard such as microphones and direct lines. Output channels are those leaving the board such as monitor and main outputs.
Axis
A line around which a device operates. Example: In a microphone, this would be an imaginary line coming out from the front of the microphone in the direction of motion of the diaphragm.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Friday, May 13, 2022
Brooks QS-70 Link
(Said of compressors and dynamic processing units.) To combine the control input signals of two channels of a compressor (o
Guitar Processor
A unit that will add effects to a direct guitar signal, including a simulated instrument amplifier sound and (often) delay and reverb effects.
Brooks TA 60 Flutter
1) High-frequency variations in pitch of a recorded waveform due to fast speed variations in a recorder or playback machine.
2) Originally, and more formally, any variations (fast or slow) in pitch of a recorded tone due to speed fluctuations in a recorder or playback unit.
Atom
The smallest particle which makes up a specific substance. It's composed of a center around which electrons revolve.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Analog Recording
A recording of the continuous changes of an audio waveform.
Effects Track
1) In film production audio, a recording of the mixdown of all the sound effects for the film 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.
Audio
Most often referring to electrical signals resulting from the sound pressure wave being converted into electrical energy.
Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
Guitar Processor
A unit that will add effects to a direct guitar signal, including a simulated instrument amplifier sound and (often) delay and reverb effects.
Brooks TA 60 Flutter
1) High-frequency variations in pitch of a recorded waveform due to fast speed variations in a recorder or playback machine.
2) Originally, and more formally, any variations (fast or slow) in pitch of a recorded tone due to speed fluctuations in a recorder or playback unit.
Atom
The smallest particle which makes up a specific substance. It's composed of a center around which electrons revolve.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Analog Recording
A recording of the continuous changes of an audio waveform.
Effects Track
1) In film production audio, a recording of the mixdown of all the sound effects for the film 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.
Audio
Most often referring to electrical signals resulting from the sound pressure wave being converted into electrical energy.
Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
Thursday, May 12, 2022
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 High-Pass Filter
A device that rejects signals that are below a certain frequency (called the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Brooks GT 44 Auxiliary Output or Send
An additional output from a sound desk that can be used for foldback or monitoring without tying up the main outputs. Each input channel will have a path to the Aux buss. Also used for feeding a signal to an effects processor. See Auxiliary Return.
Gain Structure
The way in which the gain varies in the stages or sections of an audio system.
Brooks TA 60 High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Beats Per Minute BPM
The number of steady even pulses in music occurring in one minute and there fore defining the tempo of the song.
Compander
Outboard sound equipment. Combination of a Compressor and an Expander.
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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Brooks GT 44 Auxiliary Output or Send
An additional output from a sound desk that can be used for foldback or monitoring without tying up the main outputs. Each input channel will have a path to the Aux buss. Also used for feeding a signal to an effects processor. See Auxiliary Return.
Gain Structure
The way in which the gain varies in the stages or sections of an audio system.
Brooks TA 60 High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Beats Per Minute BPM
The number of steady even pulses in music occurring in one minute and there fore defining the tempo of the song.
Compander
Outboard sound equipment. Combination of a Compressor and an Expander.
Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Brooks VT-50 Far Field
The area from 3 feet away from the sound source up to the critical distance.
In Port
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
Brooks Cinema Series Jack
1) Anywhere you plug something in.
2) Segmented audio connector. Mono Jacks have two connections �" tip and sleeve, and are unbalanced. Stereo jacks have three connections �" tip, ring and sleeve. B-type jacks (also known as Bantam jacks) were originally designed for use in telephone exchanges and provide a high quality (and expensive) connection in jackfields. A-type jacks are cheaper and more common, but more fragile. A type jacks are available in 2 sizes : quarter inch and eighth inch.
3) A connector mounted on the case of a device or on a panel.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
Brooks GT 845 Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Kick (Kick Drum)
Another term for Bass Drum.
Head Amp
British name for Preamplifier (A low-noise amplifier designed to take a low-level signal, such as the output of a tape head, and bring it up to normal line level).
Compact Disc, Interactive CDI
A Compact Disc, usually containing audio, video, and text, which the user can interact with in that the display or playback changes after the user performs some action.
In Port
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
Brooks Cinema Series Jack
1) Anywhere you plug something in.
2) Segmented audio connector. Mono Jacks have two connections �" tip and sleeve, and are unbalanced. Stereo jacks have three connections �" tip, ring and sleeve. B-type jacks (also known as Bantam jacks) were originally designed for use in telephone exchanges and provide a high quality (and expensive) connection in jackfields. A-type jacks are cheaper and more common, but more fragile. A type jacks are available in 2 sizes : quarter inch and eighth inch.
3) A connector mounted on the case of a device or on a panel.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
Brooks GT 845 Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Kick (Kick Drum)
Another term for Bass Drum.
Head Amp
British name for Preamplifier (A low-noise amplifier designed to take a low-level signal, such as the output of a tape head, and bring it up to normal line level).
Compact Disc, Interactive CDI
A Compact Disc, usually containing audio, video, and text, which the user can interact with in that the display or playback changes after the user performs some action.
Tuesday, May 10, 2022
Brooks KM 77 Fret Buzz
A buzzing sound made when a note is not properly fretted. Common with cheap guitars or beginning guitar players.
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema Projectors Line Out (Line Output)
Any output that sends out a line level signal, such as the output of a console that feeds a recorder.
Instrument Out Direct
Feeding the output of an electric instrument (like an electric guitar) to the recording console or tape recorder without using a microphone.
Brooks Speakers Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Circuit
1) One complete path of electric current.
2) Similar to definition 1, but including all paths and components to accomplish one function in a device.
Capacitance
The property of being able to oppose a change in voltage or store an electrical charge.
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema Projectors Line Out (Line Output)
Any output that sends out a line level signal, such as the output of a console that feeds a recorder.
Instrument Out Direct
Feeding the output of an electric instrument (like an electric guitar) to the recording console or tape recorder without using a microphone.
Brooks Speakers Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Circuit
1) One complete path of electric current.
2) Similar to definition 1, but including all paths and components to accomplish one function in a device.
Capacitance
The property of being able to oppose a change in voltage or store an electrical charge.
Monday, May 9, 2022
Brooks KS-55 Automatic Gain Control (Automatic Volume Control)
A compressor with a very long release time used to keep the volume of the audio very constant.
Crossover Frequency
1) The frequency that is the outer limit of one of the bands of a crossover.
2) In the Lexicon 480L delay/reverberation effects unit, the frequency at which the bass frequency reverb time is in effect rather than the mid frequency reverb time.
Brooks GS 15 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Brooks XT 20 Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
High Frequencies
The audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above.
Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Coax
Two-conductor cable consisting of one conductor surrounded by a shield.
Crossover Frequency
1) The frequency that is the outer limit of one of the bands of a crossover.
2) In the Lexicon 480L delay/reverberation effects unit, the frequency at which the bass frequency reverb time is in effect rather than the mid frequency reverb time.
Brooks GS 15 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Brooks XT 20 Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
High Frequencies
The audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above.
Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Coax
Two-conductor cable consisting of one conductor surrounded by a shield.
Sunday, May 8, 2022
Brooks BA 71 Fly In
1) To add sounds into a mix or recording that have no synchronization.
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Information Bits
The bits in the digital signal that make up actual values or commands being communicated as opposed to bits that are used for checking & correcting data or other purposes.
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Keying Input (Key Input)
An input on a dynamics processing device to control the device by an external audio signal.
File
A collection of digital data stored in a computer's memory bank or on a floppy disc.
Brooks SS 81 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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Clean
Describes a distortion free sound with few effects.
AC
1) Abbreviation for alternating current.
2) An abbreviation of the term Alternating Current (electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit; all studio signals running through audio lines are AC).
2) An application of this where a performance from one part of a tune is recorded and then recorded back into the recording at a different time in the recording.
Information Bits
The bits in the digital signal that make up actual values or commands being communicated as opposed to bits that are used for checking & correcting data or other purposes.
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Keying Input (Key Input)
An input on a dynamics processing device to control the device by an external audio signal.
File
A collection of digital data stored in a computer's memory bank or on a floppy disc.
Brooks SS 81 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 make the relative levels of audio signals in the channels of a stereo recording even.
Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Clean
Describes a distortion free sound with few effects.
AC
1) Abbreviation for alternating current.
2) An abbreviation of the term Alternating Current (electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit; all studio signals running through audio lines are AC).
Saturday, May 7, 2022
Brooks Speakers Automatic Gain Control (Automatic Volume Control)
A compressor with a very long release time used to keep the volume of the audio very constant.
Expansion
The opposite of compression; for example, an expander may allow the signal to increase 2 dB every time the signal input increased by 1 dB.
Brooks TM-22 Comb Filter
1) The frequency response achieved by mixing a direct signal with a delayed signal of equal strength especially at short delays.
2) Loosely used to also describe effects that can be achieved with comb filtering as part of the processing.
Inverse Square Law
Simply stated, the fact that in an un-obstructed area (like an open field) the sound pressure level will drop to half-pressure (-6 dB) every time the distance to the sound source is doubled.
Brooks GT 44 Key
The control of a dynamics processing device by an external audio signal.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Delay (Digital, Analogue)
1) Effect used to create echo…echo…echo…echo…echo…
2) In more advanced systems used in very large venues, delay can be used to time the arrival of the signal to the speakers in the back of the room so that people in the back hear the sound coming from those speakers at the same time that the sound coming from the speakers in the front of the room arrives.
Harmonics
Integer multiples of a fundamental frequency, the fundamental itself being the first harmonic, its first overtone the second harmonic, etc. Attributing to instruments, voices, etc. their distinctive timbre.
Expansion
The opposite of compression; for example, an expander may allow the signal to increase 2 dB every time the signal input increased by 1 dB.
Brooks TM-22 Comb Filter
1) The frequency response achieved by mixing a direct signal with a delayed signal of equal strength especially at short delays.
2) Loosely used to also describe effects that can be achieved with comb filtering as part of the processing.
Inverse Square Law
Simply stated, the fact that in an un-obstructed area (like an open field) the sound pressure level will drop to half-pressure (-6 dB) every time the distance to the sound source is doubled.
Brooks GT 44 Key
The control of a dynamics processing device by an external audio signal.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Delay (Digital, Analogue)
1) Effect used to create echo…echo…echo…echo…echo…
2) In more advanced systems used in very large venues, delay can be used to time the arrival of the signal to the speakers in the back of the room so that people in the back hear the sound coming from those speakers at the same time that the sound coming from the speakers in the front of the room arrives.
Harmonics
Integer multiples of a fundamental frequency, the fundamental itself being the first harmonic, its first overtone the second harmonic, etc. Attributing to instruments, voices, etc. their distinctive timbre.
Friday, May 6, 2022
Brooks GT 845 Graphic Equalizer
An device with several slides controlling the gain of audio signal present which is within one of several evenly spaced frequency bands (spaced according to octaves).
Head Amp
British name for Preamplifier (A low-noise amplifier designed to take a low-level signal, such as the output of a tape head, and bring it up to normal line level).
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Highs
Short for the term High Frequencies (the audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above).
In-Line Console
A console with modules that have controls for all console sections in one long strip.
Brooks XB 33 Decibel (dB)
1) Relative measurement for the volume (loudness) of sound. Also used to measure the difference between two voltages, or two currents. See Zero dB.
2) A numerical expression of the relative loudness of a sound. The difference in decibels between two
sounds is ten times the common logarithm of the ratio of their power levels.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Head Amp
British name for Preamplifier (A low-noise amplifier designed to take a low-level signal, such as the output of a tape head, and bring it up to normal line level).
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Highs
Short for the term High Frequencies (the audio frequencies from 6000 Hz and above).
In-Line Console
A console with modules that have controls for all console sections in one long strip.
Brooks XB 33 Decibel (dB)
1) Relative measurement for the volume (loudness) of sound. Also used to measure the difference between two voltages, or two currents. See Zero dB.
2) A numerical expression of the relative loudness of a sound. The difference in decibels between two
sounds is ten times the common logarithm of the ratio of their power levels.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Bi-Directional Pattern
A microphone pick up pattern which has maximum pick up directly in front and directly in back of the diaphragm and least pick up at the sides.
Thursday, May 5, 2022
Brooks GS 15 Analog To Digital Converter
The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
Kilo
A prefix meaning 1000.
Brooks GT 44 Dynamic Mic
Robust type of microphone which picks up the sound on a diaphragm connected to a coil of wire which moves within a magnet. An alternating current is induced into the wire which provides the electrical output. Most dynamic mics have low output impedance of 200 Ohms. See Condenser Mic.
Byte
A grouping of eight information bits.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Layering
The recording (or playing) of a musical part with of several similar sound patches playing simultaneous.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Blending
1) A condition where two signals mix together to form one sound or to give the sound of one sound source or one performance.
2) Mixing the left and right signal together slightly which makes the instruments sound closer to the center of the performance stage. 3) A method of panning during mixing where instruments are not panned extremely left or right.
Fader
A control to control the gain of a channel on the console, thereby determining the level of the signal in that channel.
Kilo
A prefix meaning 1000.
Brooks GT 44 Dynamic Mic
Robust type of microphone which picks up the sound on a diaphragm connected to a coil of wire which moves within a magnet. An alternating current is induced into the wire which provides the electrical output. Most dynamic mics have low output impedance of 200 Ohms. See Condenser Mic.
Byte
A grouping of eight information bits.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Layering
The recording (or playing) of a musical part with of several similar sound patches playing simultaneous.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Blending
1) A condition where two signals mix together to form one sound or to give the sound of one sound source or one performance.
2) Mixing the left and right signal together slightly which makes the instruments sound closer to the center of the performance stage. 3) A method of panning during mixing where instruments are not panned extremely left or right.
Fader
A control to control the gain of a channel on the console, thereby determining the level of the signal in that channel.
Wednesday, May 4, 2022
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Fat
Having more than a normal amount of signal strength at low frequencies or having more sound than normal (by use of compression or delay).
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Cut
1) One selection (one song) on a pre4ecorded music format.
2) A term with the same meaning as Mute (to turn off a channel or a signal).
3) To reduce gain of a particular band of frequencies (with an equalizer).
4) To not pass a particular band of frequencies (said of a filter)
Centre Frequency
The frequency of the audio signal that is boosted or attenuated most by an equalizer with a peak equalization curve.
Brooks BA 71 Electrons
Negatively charged particles, which revolve around the centre of atoms. The movement of such electrons down a conductor causes electrical current.
In Port
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Cut
1) One selection (one song) on a pre4ecorded music format.
2) A term with the same meaning as Mute (to turn off a channel or a signal).
3) To reduce gain of a particular band of frequencies (with an equalizer).
4) To not pass a particular band of frequencies (said of a filter)
Centre Frequency
The frequency of the audio signal that is boosted or attenuated most by an equalizer with a peak equalization curve.
Brooks BA 71 Electrons
Negatively charged particles, which revolve around the centre of atoms. The movement of such electrons down a conductor causes electrical current.
In Port
A jack on a MIDI device or computer that will accept an incoming data signal.
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Brooks Cinema Series Critical Distance
The point a distance away from the sound source where the direct sound and the reverberant sound are equal in volume.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
Brooks SS 81 Compact Disc, Read Only Memory CDROM
A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer.
Hz (Hertz)
1) An abbreviation for the term Hertz (the unit of frequency).
2) Unit of frequency equivalent to the number of cycles per second.
Brooks QS-70 Gain Control
A device that changes the gain of an amplifier or circuit, often a knob that can be turned or a slide that can be moved up arid down.
High-Pass Filter
A device that rejects signals that are below a certain frequency (called the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
Beats Per Minute BPM
The number of steady even pulses in music occurring in one minute and there fore defining the tempo of the song.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
Brooks SS 81 Compact Disc, Read Only Memory CDROM
A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer.
Hz (Hertz)
1) An abbreviation for the term Hertz (the unit of frequency).
2) Unit of frequency equivalent to the number of cycles per second.
Brooks QS-70 Gain Control
A device that changes the gain of an amplifier or circuit, often a knob that can be turned or a slide that can be moved up arid down.
High-Pass Filter
A device that rejects signals that are below a certain frequency (called the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
Beats Per Minute BPM
The number of steady even pulses in music occurring in one minute and there fore defining the tempo of the song.
Aliasing
A sampler mis-recognizing a signal sent to it that is at a frequency higher than the Nyquist Frequency. Upon playback, the system will provide a signal at an incorrect frequency (called an alias frequency). Aliasing is a kind of distortion.
Monday, May 2, 2022
Brooks GS 15 Capacitance
That property of a capacitor which determines how much charge can be stored in it for a given potential difference between its terminals, measured in farads, by the ratio of the charge stored to the potential difference.
Frequency Response
How sensitive an electronic device (mic, amplifier, speaker, etc.) is to various frequencies; often communicated with a graph.
Brooks SS 81 Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Fade
1) A gradual reduction of the level of the audio signal.
2) A gradual change of level from one pre-set level to another.
Brooks QS 70 Critical Distance
The point a distance away from the sound source where the direct sound and the reverberant sound are equal in volume.
Far Field
The area from 3 feet away from the sound source up to the critical distance.
Hybrid
A product created by the marriage of two different technologies. Meant here as the combination of a dynamic woofer with an electrostatic transducer.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Frequency Response
How sensitive an electronic device (mic, amplifier, speaker, etc.) is to various frequencies; often communicated with a graph.
Brooks SS 81 Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Fade
1) A gradual reduction of the level of the audio signal.
2) A gradual change of level from one pre-set level to another.
Brooks QS 70 Critical Distance
The point a distance away from the sound source where the direct sound and the reverberant sound are equal in volume.
Far Field
The area from 3 feet away from the sound source up to the critical distance.
Hybrid
A product created by the marriage of two different technologies. Meant here as the combination of a dynamic woofer with an electrostatic transducer.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Sunday, May 1, 2022
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Contact Microphone
A device that senses vibrations and puts out an audio signal proportional to the vibrations.
Analog To Digital Converter
The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
Brooks QS-70 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 shots).
High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 High-Pass Filter
A device that rejects signals that are below a certain frequency (called the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
I/O
Short for "Input/Output' and referring to:
1) An in-line console module that contains controls for the input section, output section and monitor section.
2) A module in electronic gear containing input and output amplifiers for the device.
3) A digital port (connector) able to both receive digital data and output digital data.
Analog To Digital Converter
The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
Brooks QS-70 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 shots).
High Hat
A double cymbal on a stand which can be played with a foot pedal or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 High-Pass Filter
A device that rejects signals that are below a certain frequency (called the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Flamenco
A style of music with roots in Spanish and Arabic culture.
I/O
Short for "Input/Output' and referring to:
1) An in-line console module that contains controls for the input section, output section and monitor section.
2) A module in electronic gear containing input and output amplifiers for the device.
3) A digital port (connector) able to both receive digital data and output digital data.
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