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GLOSSARY OF STUDIO JARGON # IU, 2U The height of a rack-mounted device measured in "rack spaces." 1U is one rack space in height. 2U is twice as tall, at a height of two rack spaces.
24-Bit 24-bit recording is the current industry standard for pro-quality digital audio in which audio is captured and played back as binary computer data in a 24-bit word length. 24-bit recording and playback precisely captures and reproduces the most subtle audio nuances.
A
A-B Test A test between two components. For example, a test between two different pre-amplifiers. For the test to be scientifically valid the levels should be matched.
ABX Comparator A device that randomly selects between two components being tested. The listener doesn't know which device is being listened to.
Active Sensing A method by which a MIDI device detects disconnection. A message is sent to the receiver around three times per second, and if no message is received during this period, the unit assumes the MIDI connection has been broken. It then begins a routine to reestablish normal operation.
ADC For "Analog-to-Digital Converter," a device that receives analog audio and converts it into digital data, such as analog audio coming into a V-Studio, sampler or digital mixer.
ADSR Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release are the four stages of an envelope that describe the shape of a sound over time. Attack represents the time the sound takes to rise from an initial value of zero to its maximum level. Decay is the time for the initial falling off to the sustain level. Sustain is the time during which it remains at this level. Release is the time it takes to move from the sustain to its final level. Release typically begins when a note is let up. In most sound generators, the time and the value reached are programmable.
AES/EBU For "Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcast Union," a format for sending and receiving digital audio data; typically uses an XLR connection. Balanced digital connection. For example, used to connect a CD transport to a DAC.
AIFF For "Apple Audio Interchange File Format." A commonly used type of disk file that contains audio, developed by Apple. Also called ".aif" files.
After Touch A measurement of the force applied by a performer to the key on a controller after it has been depressed. Either polyphonic, which measures the pressure on each individual key, or monophonic, reflecting the total pressure on all keys.
Algorithm A set of instructions supplied to a computer for the purpose of solving a problem.
Aliasing (Fold Over) "False frequencies'' that are created when sampling frequencies greater than one-half the sampling rate.
All Notes Off A three byte MIDI channel message that instructs the receiving device to terminate all notes currently sounding.
Alternating Current (AC) An electrical current that periodically changes in magnitude and direction.
Ambience The resonating of the real or imaginary space in which a sound occurs. The acoustic characteristics of a space with regard to reverberation. A room with a lot of reverb is said to be "live"; one without much reverb is "dead."
Ampere (A) The unit of measurement for electrical current in coulombs per second. There is one ampere in a circuit that has one ohm resistance when one volt is applied to the circuit. See Ohms Law.
Amplifier (Amp) A device which increases signal level. Many types of amplifiers are used in audio systems. Amplifiers typically increase voltage, current or both.
Amplifier Classes Audio power amplifiers are classified primarily by the design of the output stage. Classification is based on the amount of time the output devices operate during each cycle of signal swing. Also defined in terms of output bias current, (the amount of current flowing in the output devices with no signal).
Amplifier Envelope A device that changes the Time Variant Amplifier's settings over a period of time.
Amplitude The technical term for a signal's volume or loudness.
Analog Audio Voltage-based representations of sound. Information which is continuously variable in nature.
Analog Synthesis A method of sound synthesis that relies on predefined waveforms to create sounds that vary over time. The amplitude, frequency and harmonic content of these waveforms can be manipulated to produce a vast number of different results.
Analog-to-Digital The conversion, using an ADC, of analog audio to digital data.
Arpeggiate To play the notes of a chord in succession rather than simultaneously.
Arpeggiator A device that plays a pre-programmed series of notes. An arpeggio can be any kind of musical phrase, including simulations of guitar strumming.
ASIO Stands for Audio Streaming Input/Output. It was originally developed by Steinberg as a low latency driver for handling multiple streams of audio data. ASIO drivers are going to work best with Cubase and Nuendo. Numerous other software makers also work well with this driver including the Emagic programs.
Attack A parameter that sets the speed at which an envelope or dynamics processor starts. With an envelope, Attack sets the speed at which the enveloped setting travels from 0 to its nominal value. In a dynamics processor, it sets the speed at which the processor starts working.
Attenuate To reduce in volume.
Audio A general word for sound.
Audiophile A person interested in sound reproduction.
Automation The memorization and playback of changes you make to mixer settings.
Auto Punch A feature on V-Studios that automatically starts and stops recording for you when you're punching at locations you've set beforehand.
Aux Short for "Auxiliary"; a designation for extra busses typically used for sending signal to effects, headphone amps and other destinations.
Aux Return An extra input; typically used for receiving a signal from the output of an internal or external effect processor.
Aux Send An extra bus that can be used for sending signal anywhere; typically used for sending signal into an effect.
B
Back-up To make a copy of data and to store the copy on an external medium -- such as a CD-R or CD-RW disk -- for safekeeping. This copy is called a "backup." Backing up is extremely important to safeguard against unexpected events. To play or work on a song or project that's been backed up, it must be "recovered."
Balanced Referring to wiring: Audio signals require two wires. In an unbalanced line the shield is one of those wires. In a balanced line, there are two wires plus the shield. For the system to be balanced requires balanced electronics and usually employs XLR connectors. Balanced lines are less apt to pick up external noise. This is usually not a factor in home audio, but is a factor in professional audio requiring hundreds or even thousands of feet of cabling. Many higher quality home audio cables terminated with RCA jacks are balanced designs using two conductors and a shield instead of one conductor plus shield.
Band In EQ, a range of frequencies.
Band Pass Filter A type of filter that allows only the band of frequencies surrounding the cutoff frequency to pass through unaffected.
Bandwidth The total frequency range of any system. Usually specified as something like: 20-20,000Hz plus or minus 3 db. In EQ, the width of a band; the number of frequencies that are boosted or cut above and below a selected center frequency.
Bank In MIDI instruments, a group of patches. Each bank can contains up to 128 patches, numbered from 0-127 or 1-128. In favorite lists, a group of patches.
Bank Select A type of MIDI message that typically corresponds to a specific bank of patches. When an instrument receives a Bank Select message, the corresponding patch bank is selected. Typically, a Bank Select message is followed by a Program Change message that selects a patch within the selected bank. A Bank Select message may contain two components, an MSB ("Most Significant Byte") and/or an LSB ("Least Significant Byte") value.
Bass The lower frequency range of a sound, usually from about 200 Hz down.
Bend Range The maximum pitch change that can be applied by moving a pitch bend control.
Binary Numbers A numbering system based on 2 in which 0 and 1 are the only available digits.
Bits / Bytes A binary digit. Mode of information used by a computer to store numbers. One bit equals a \Qone' or a \Qzero'. Usually 8 bits equals one byte, however, MIDI uses a 10 bit-byte that includes a start bit, the 8 - bit data message, and a stop bit.
Bit Depth Digital recording can capture audio using number strings of varying lengths -- a longer string allows more detail in the description of level changes in the signal. The size of a string is referred to as its "bit depth." Most often, digital devices record and play audio using bit depths of 16 or 24 bits. Audio CDs use 16 bits.
Boomy Listening term. Refers to an excessive bass response that has a peak(s) in it.
Boost To increase in level.
Bouncing Bouncing is the copying of tracks onto other tracks. Typically, this is done to combine a greater number of tracks into a fewer tracks, though there are other reasons to bounce. Some people call bouncing "ping-ponging."
Bright Listening term. Usually refers to too much upper frequency energy.
Buffer An audio buffer is an area of RAM used to temporarily store data. Usually found in audio recording software. Reducing the buffer size can help reduce the amount of latency while recording and monitoring audio. Increasing the buffer size can help reduce pops and clicks while recording.
Bulk Dump The transmission of a chunk of SysEx data from one MIDI device to another. The sending device doesn't need to understand the data -- it merely needs to be able to receive, store and re-transmit it.
Burn Music industry slang for writing data onto a CD.
Bus A pathway down which one or more signals can travel to a common destination.
Power for a piece of equipment is obtained from the FireWire or USB connection, no AC adapter is necessary.
C
C4 Middle C in most MIDI devices.
CC Number (Control Change Number) A numbered MIDI message that's permanently assigned to a particular parameter. A MIDI Control Change number is followed by a value that sets the parameter in the MIDI device that receives it.
CD-RW Drive Short for "CD-ReWritable" -- is a device that can burn audio onto CD-R ("CD-Recordable") or CD-RW ("CD-ReWritable") discs. You can write unerasable, permanent data onto a CD-R one time. A CD-RW disk can be reused: You can erase a CD-RW and write new data onto the disk.
COSM An abbreviation for "Composite Object Sound Modeling" technology that shapes audio by applying the sonic characteristics of popular or classic microphones, guitars, guitar amplifiers and studio reference speakers.
Cannon Connector Another name for an XLR connector.
Central Proccssing Unit (CPR) A silicon chip that performs calculations and acts as the brain of a computer.
Cents Typically, 1/100th of a semitone. Used in fine-tuning a pitch.
Channel 1. One of 16 different data paths that are available to carry messages in MIDI. 2. the audio path on a mixer.
Channel Message A type of MIDI message that carries specific channel information.
Channel Strip A row of controls on a mixer allocated to the shaping of a single audio signal.
Chorus A doubling effect commonly found on a synthesizer or sampler that makes a single sound appear to sound like an entire ensemble. The initial signal is split and appears at a slightly altered pitch from the original, or at a slightly later point in time. This time and pitch level are often controllable by a low frequency oscillator (LFO).
Clipping Refers to a type of distortion that occurs when an amplifier is driven into an overload condition. Usually the "clipped" waveform contains an excess of high-frequency energy. The sound becomes hard and edgy. Hard clipping is the most frequent cause of "burned out" tweeters. Even a low-powered amplifier or receiver driven into clipping can damage tweeters which would otherwise last virtually forever.
Clock A timing reference that provides the basis for synchronization of different elements in a single device, or between multiple devices.
Coarse Tune The adjustment of pitch in semitone steps.
Coherence Listening term. Refers to how well integrated the sound of the system is.
Coloration Listening term. A visual analog. A "colored" sound characteristic adds something not in the original sound. The coloration may be euphonically pleasant, but it is not as accurate as the original signal.
Compression In audio, compression means to reduce the dynamic range of a signal. Compression may be intentional or one of the effects of a system that is driven to overload.
Compression Ratio The amount of gain reduction applied to a signal exceeding a compressor's threshold level setting.
Compressor A dynamics processor that reduces the level of any signal exceeding a specified threshold volume.
Continuous Controller A type of MIDI message that is generated by the movement of a continuous control.
Controllers Various sliders, levers, knobs, or wheels typically found on a MIDI controller. Used to send continuous (as opposed to discrete) data to control some aspect of a sound.
Core Audio This is an ultra-low latency, high quality MAC-compatible audio driver that is built directly in to the OSX operating system.
Cross-talk Unwanted breakthrough of one channel into another. Also refers to the distortion that occurs when some signal from a music source that you are not listening to leaks into the circuit of the source that you are listening to.
Cue Bus A bus -- sometimes a stereo pair of busses -- dedicated to the providing of signal to performers so they can hear what they're doing.
Cut To reduce in level
Cutoff The frequency at which a filter starts to work.
Cycle In a sound wave, the repeating movement from the greatest amount of air pressure to the least; the pitch of sound waves is measures in cycles; each cycle equals one "Hertz."
D
DAC For "Digital-to-Analog Converter," a device that converts digital data to analog audio, such as the audio leaving a digital mixer on its way to an analog device.
DAT Abbreviation for "Digital Audio Tape"; used in reference to this type of tape as well as the recorders that use it.
DSP For "digital signal processing," the means by which digital audio is mixed, filtered, equalized, or by which effects are added.
Damper Pedal Pedal that, when pressed, causes sustaining notes to continue to play until the pedal is released.
Damping (Damping factor, etc.) Refers to the ability of an audio component to "stop" after the signal ends. For example, if a drum is struck with a mallet, the sound will reach a peak level and then decay in a certain amount of time to no sound. An audio component that allows the decay to drag on too long has poor damping, and less definition than it should. An audio component that is over-damped does not allow the initial energy to reach the full peak and cuts the decay short. "Boomy" or "muddy" sound is often the result of under-damped systems. "Dry" or "lifeless" sound may be the result of an over-damped system.
D Beam A real-time controller found on many Roland instruments. You can manipulate or trigger sounds by moving your hand above the D-Beam.
Decay One of the four basic stages of a traditional envelope, decay is the time it takes for the enveloped setting to reach its sustain level after the Attack envelope stage.
Decibel (dB) A decibel (or dB ) is 1/10th of a bel, which is a relative measure of two sounds. Named after Alexander Graham Bell. We perceive differences in volume level in a logarithmic manner. Our ears become less sensitive to sound as its intensity increases. Decibels are a logarithmic scale of relative loudness. A difference of approx. 1 dB is the minimum perceptible change in volume, 3 dB is a moderate change in volume, and about 10 dB is an apparent doubling of volume:
De-Esser A device that detects and reduces sibilance in vocal signals.
Default The "normal" or "startup" state of a hardware device or software application.
Defrag/Defragment The process by which the empty space on a hard drive or in a device's RAM is made continuous -- instead of being broken into small, scattered pieces -- to help ensure smooth operation.
Delay A common effect that mimics the time difference between the arrival of a direct sound and the first reflection to reach the listener's ears.
Detent A notch that you can feel as you move a fader up or down; signifies the point at which no level boost or cut is applied by the fader.
Digi Score A visual interface that displays a music score from any MIDI file. This virtual score constantly displays the exact location in the music file in several notation sizes.
Digital Audio Sound represented as binary computer data. Typically used as the means for storing sound information in a computer or sampler.
Digital Music File Music that is digitally recorded as a computer file. Common types of digital music files are .mid files -- the smallest and only really interactive type, also called a "Standard MIDI Files" -- .wav files -- very large, medium-resolution files, and MP3 files -- a highly compressed, high resolution file suitable for recording and playback.
Digital Synthesis The use of numbers to create sounds. Method most often used in today's synthesizers for generating sounds, as compared to analog method employed previously.
Digital-to-Analog The conversion, using a DAC, of digital data to analog audio.
Dim A switch that allows you to quickly reduce your monitoring volume.
DIN Plug A five-pin connector used by MIDI equipment.
Direct Box A mic-level box that converts a phone connector to an XLR connector.
Direct Current (DC) Current that moves in only one direction.
Dispersion The spreading of sound waves as they leave a source. The spreading of sound waves as they leave a source.
Distortion Fuzz or roughness added to a sound that alters the musical signal. There are many forms of distortion, some of which are more audible than others.
Dither A process that deliberately adds a tiny amount of noise to a signal in order to mask unwanted sounds introduced when the signal's original bit depth is reduced. Dithering is recommended when transferring audio to a device that uses a lower bit depth.
Doubling The artificial simulation of a second unison performance by using a delay with a short delay time.
Driver In order for audio or MIDI interfaces to communicate (transfer data) to and from a computer, the use of software drivers is required. For use with a Windows machine, many products can use a standard 16 bit windows driver- these are already a part of a full install of Windows XP. Other interfaces require one or more special drivers to be installed. EDIROL products have an ADVANCED option or switch, which allows for a choice between the standard Windows driver, or in the ADVANCED mode, the specialized drivers. Deciding which driver to use will depend on the application being used and the USB/FIREWIRE hardware being used.
Drum Machine An electronic device, usually controllable via MIDI commands, that contains samples of acoustic drum sounds. Used to create percussion parts and patterns.
Dry A signal to which an effect has not been added.
Dynamic Headroom The ability of an audio device to respond to musical peaks. For example, an amplifier may only be capable of a sustained 100 watts, but may be able to achieve peaks of 200 watts for the fraction of a second required for an intense, quick sound.
Dynamic Range The range between the loudest and the softest sounds that are in a piece of music, or that can be reproduced by a piece of audio equipment without distortion (a ratio expressed in decibels). In speech, the range rarely exceeds 40 dB; in music, it is greatest in orchestral works, where the range may be as much as 75 dB.
Dynamics Volume changes that occur in audio.
E
EQ The process of altering the levels of frequencies that comprise a signal. Also called "equalization."
Echo A delay-based effect in which copies of a signal are heard trailing off to silence; similar to shouting from a mountaintop and hearing your voice repeat.
Effect Loop The process of adding an effect to a signal by sending a copy of the signal to an effect and mixing the effect's output with the original signal.
Effect Processor A built-in or external device that produces effects.
Effect Return An input that receives signal from the output of an internal or external effect.
Effects Any of a variety of audio processes that can be applied to a signal to modify it, including reverb, delay, flanging, phasing.
Envelope Changes in a sound over time, including alterations in a sound's amplitude, frequency and timbre.
Envelope Generator A device or process in a synthesizer or other sound generator that creates a time varying signal used to control some aspect of the sound.
Equalizer An electronic set of filters used to boost or attenuate certain frequencies.
Equal Temperment Standard Western tuning that divides each octave into twelve mathematically equal parts.
Error Correction A procedure found in digital audio systems that detects and correct inaccurate or missing bits in the data stream.
Euphonic Pleasing. As a descriptive audio term, usually refers to a coloration or inaccuracy that nonetheless may be sonically pleasing.
Expander A device that reduces the level of a signal when it falls below a specified threshold to exaggerate its dynamic range.
Expansion Board An optional circuit board that can be installed in a device to add additional sounds or effect processing.
F
F Button A multi-use computer key whose function is defined by software.
FX Abbreviation for "effects."
Fade In/Fade Out A feature of most audio editing software that allows the user to apply a gradual amplitude increase or decrease over some segment of the sound.
Fader Also known as a slider or attenuator, this control is used for the precise manipulation of levels. In some devices, can also be used for the setting of parameter values. Sometimes found as a feature of MIDI software programs.
Feedback The delaying of a delay so that multiple images of the original signal are heard; also, the loud squeal that's heard when a channel is receiving its own output.
Filter An electrical circuit which permits certain frequencies to pass easily while inhibiting or preventing others. Typical filters include low pass, high pass, band pass, and band reject.
Filter Envelope A device that changes the Time Variant Filter's settings over a period of time.
Finalize The last stage of CD-R/RW writing in which the disk's table of contents (TOC) is written onto the disk.
Fine Tune The adjustment of pitch in the smallest of increments, typically 100ths of a semitone, or "cents."
Firewire Audio Interface A FireWire interface allows the transfer of audio to and from a computer via a FireWire connection, the use of software drivers is required. EDIROL FireWire interfaces do not require the installation of driver software when being used with MAC OSX.
Flanger An effect that generates a swirling sound by adding a slightly delayed copy of the signal in which the copy's delay time fluctuates.
Flat Response The faithful reproduction of an audio signal; specifically, the variations in output level of less than 1 dB above or below a median level over the audio spectrum.
Flex Bus A powerful all-purpose bus available on Roland digital mixers.
Flip On an in-line mixer, the act of allocating a channel's tools to the control of an input signal or to the control of a multitrack tape return.
Flipping When working with two signals 180 degrees out of phase, delaying one of the signals so that its phase lines up with the other.
Flying Fader A motorized fader that automatically moves to its current setting.
FM Synthesis A synthesis method that involves the interaction of a signal (carrier) by another (modulator).
Formant Harmonic content of a sound that determine the sound's character, especially important in human vocal sounds, where formants are produced by mouth shape and vocal cord length.
Fragmentation The breaking up of a large space -- a hard drive or onboard RAM memory -- into smaller, disconnected chunks of space that prevent data from being stored in one continuous area. Fragmentation can cause operational problems.
Frame In SMPTE and MTC time codes, seconds are divided into frames as determined by the current frame rate.
Frequency Refers to the number of times per second that a sound wave's cycle repeats, with a greater frequency resulting in a higher perceived pitch; also used as shorthand for describing sound waves in audio by their pitch. The range of human hearing is commonly given as 2-20,000Hz (20Hz-20kHz). One hertz (Hz) represents one cycle per second, 10Hz represents 20 cycles per second and so on. Lower numbers are lower frequencies.
Fundamental Frequency The predominant frequency in a complex waveform. Typically provides the sound with its strongest pitch reference.
G
GM1, GM2 Abbreviation for "General MIDI" and "General MIDI 2," respectively.
GPI Short for "General Purpose Interface," a control jack found on some video editing devices.
GS Roland's extension of General MIDI. GS adds features such as chorus, reverb and panning for more realistic sound, and expands beyond the original 128 sounds of General MIDI to 16,000-plus sounds. This open-ended convention has been licensed by Apple for QuickTime 3.0, 4.0 & 5.0, by Microsoft for their GS synthesizer, and by Nintendo for their sound applications.
Gain To increase in level. The function of a volume control.
Gate A device that turns audio off or down when it falls below a specified threshold.
General MIDI General MIDI -- or "GM" -- is a music industry standard ratified in 1991. It established a set of 128 synth, orchestral and percussion sounds so that GM files and Standard MIDI Files play back on any GM-compatible instrument with predictable results.
General MIDI 2 General MIDI 2 -- or "GM2" -- is an update to the General MIDI standard. It was ratified in 1991. GM2 was adopted by Roland and Yamaha to extend the set of GM sounds, expressive musical parameters and other features in order to provide for more consistent playback of GM2-compliant files on different instruments.
Grain Listening term. A sonic analog of the grain seen in photos. A sort of "grittiness" added to the sound.
Graphic Equalizer A device type that applies a series of bandpass filters to a sound, each of which works on a certain range of the spectrum. The frequencies that fall within the range, typically one-third octave, can be boosted or cut.
Ground A common zero voltage reference in a system of connected audio devices; when devices have different zero voltage references, ground hum may occur.
Grouping A process by which multiple channels are joined together under a single level control.
H
Hz See "Hertz."
Haas Effect If sounds arrive from several sources, the ears and brain will identify only the nearest. In other words. If our ears receive similar sounds coming from various sources, the brain will latch onto the sound that arrives first. If the time difference is up to 50 milliseconds, the early arrival sound can dominate the later arriving sound, even if the later arrival is as much as 10 dB louder. The discovery of this effect is attributed to Halmut Haas in 1949.
Hard Drive A device that uses magnetism to store data on a rigid platter mounted inside its case.
Harmonics Also called overtones, these are vibrations at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental. Harmonics extend without limit beyond the audible range. They are characterized as even-order and odd-order harmonics. A second-order harmonic is two times the frequency of the fundamental; a third-order is three times the fundamental, and so one. Each even-order harmonic-.second, fourth, sixth, etc.-is one octave or multiples of one octave higher than the fundamental; these even-order overtones are therefore musically related to the fundamental. Odd-order harmonics-third fifth, seventh, etc.-create a series of notes that are not related to any octave overtones and therefore may have an unpleasant sound. Audio systems that emphasize odd-order harmonics tend to have a harsh, hard quality.
Harmonic Series Also known as the "overtone'' series, this is the series of frequencies in a sound that are whole number multiples of the fundamental.
Hash Mark A horizontal line along the path of a fader to help identify its up/down position.
Headroom 1. The number of dBs above the point at which a clipping warning appears before clipping actually occurs. 2. The ability of an amp to go beyond its rated power for short durations in order to reproduce musical peaks without distortion. This capability is often dependent on the power supply used in the design.
Hertz (Hz) A unit of measurement denoting frequency, originally measured as Cycles Per Second (CPS).
Hi-Speed USB Hi-speed USB is another name for USB 2.0. Some EDIROL products will have a switch that allows the choice between USB 2.0 and 1.0 (full-speed).
Hi-Z Abbreviation for "high impedance."
Hi Impedance High-impedance devices include electric guitars and basses, and some semi-pro microphones.
Hi Pass Filter A filter that allows all frequencies higher than the cutoff frequency to pass through unaffected.
Hiss Audio noise that sounds like air escaping from a tire.
Hold Pedal Pedal that, when pressed, causes sustaining notes to continue to play until the pedal is released.
Hum An undesirable low-frequency tone present in a signal as a result of grounding problems or proximity to a power source, typically a 60Hz noise in the US.
I
IDE Short for "Integrated Device and Electronics." A set of data transmission standards employed by high-speed disk drives.
I/O Abbreviation for "in/out," as in "inputs and outputs."
I-Format Music data file format used on MT, KR, HP-G, AT- and V-MT-series products. Files created on any of these instruments are cross-compatible. The Visual MT (V-MT1) can convert any i-format song into the Standard MIDI File (SMF) format. Imaging Listening term. A good stereo system can provide a stereo image that has width, depth and height. The best imaging systems will define a nearly holographic re-recreation of the original sound.
Impedance The amount of force with which voltage leaves a connector and the amount of resistance to that force in the jack receiving it -- they should be equal.
In-line A synonym for "insert effect". Also, a mixer whose input and multitrack tape return controls are contained in each of its channel strips.
Input A jack that receives audio.
Input Level The level of signal coming into an input jack or input channel.
Insert A point in a signal flow at which an insert, or in-line, effect can be employed.
Insert Effect An effect routing that interrupts a channel's signal flow, diverting its signal into the effect and then out of the effect back into the channel. An insert effect completely replaces the original signal with an effected version. Commonly used with dynamics processing and modeling effects.
Interactive Song Files Since MIDI files contain individual note information, users can interact with their contents, most frequently by changing the files' tempo, key, or number of tracks.
J
Jitter A tendency towards lack of synchronization caused by electrical changes. Technically, the unexpected (and unwanted_ phase shift of digital pulses over a transmission medium. A discrepancy between when a digital edge transition is supposed to occur and when it actually does occur' think of it as nervous digital, or may a digital analogy to wow and flutter.
K
kHz For "kiloHertz," a thousand Hertz.
Keyboard Splits A setup of a keyboard where different notes trigger different sounds. Also known as zoning.
Keyfollow A feature in which the amount of change applied to a sound is based on the played note's distance above or below Middle C.
L
Latency Latency is the delay experienced when monitoring audio through software. This delay is the amount of time it takes the computer to process the sound and output it.
LCD For "Liquid Crystal Diode," or "Liquid Crystal Display", a plasma-based data display used in most digital mixers or on electronic instruments.
LED For "Light Emitting Diode," a small, sometimes colored, light bulb.
LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) An inaudible low-frequency waveform that alters a basic setting -- a waveform's pitch, a tone's filter or panning settings -- in a cyclic manner according to the shape of the LFO's waveform. An LFO is typically used as a means of adding vibrato, tremolo or auto-panning.
LSB For "Least Significant Byte." The LSB value is the second half of a full MIDI Bank Select message (the first half is the MSB value). Control Change Number 32 is the LSB Bank Select Control Change number.
Level A general term for volume or amplitude.
Librarian A category of MIDI software that is used to organize and store a MIDI device's patch (program) data.
Limiter A compressor set to a ratio of 10:1 or greater. This has the effect of preventing all but the fastest signals from exceeding the threshold volume, thus forcing them into the desired level range.
Line Level The high-level signal produced at the outputs of audio equipment such as synths, samplers, beat boxes, turntable preamps, CD players, mixers, recorders and playback devices. Line level is before power amplification.
Local On/Off A three byte channel message that determines the status of the Local On function of a MIDI device. LOCAL ON allows the instrument to produce sounds from incoming MIDI data and its own keyboard. LOCAL OFF states that only external MIDI data is responded to.
Locator An bookmark for a time location. Locators are fast and easy to recall, and are ideal for navigating a song or project.
Loop As a verb, the act of playing the same section over and over; to repeat a sequencer pattern or portion of an audio sample repeatedly. The point to which the program returns, whether the beginning or some other point, is usually definable by the user.. As a noun, a chunk of audio that's played over and over. Also an effect routing that adds an effect to a signal by sending a copy of the signal to an effect, and mixing the effect's output with the original signal.
Loop Effect An effect routing that adds an effect to a signal by sending a copy of the signal to an effect, and mixing the effect's output with the original signal. Commonly used for reverbs and delay-based effects. Also called a "send-and-return effect."
Loudness Another term for volume. Perceived volume. Loudness can be deceiving. For example, adding distortion will make a given volume level seem louder than it actually is.
Low Impedance Low-impedance devices include pro-quality mics, as well as synths, samplers, beat boxes, effect processors and so on.
Low Pass Filter A filter that allows all frequencies lower than the cutoff frequency to pass through unaffected.
M
MIDI For "Musical Instrument Digital Interface," An international standard for communication between a musical instrument and a computer.
MIDI Clock A system real time message that enables the synchronization of different MIDI devices. The standard rate is 24 divisions per beat.
MIDI Connector A five-pin DIN connector found at either end of a MIDI
MIDI Control Change Message A type of MIDI message assigned to a particular parameter. When you send a value for a MIDI Control Change number, it sets the corresponding parameter in the MIDI device that receives it.
MIDI Control Surface A hardware device that transmits MIDI messages, and whose purpose is the control of a second MIDI device.
MIDI File A computer music file created by a MIDI instrument or MIDI sequencer. These files have a ".mid," (pronounced "dot mid") suffix.
MIDI Interface A device that adds a MIDI In, Out and sometimes Thru port to a desktop computer.
MIDI Merge Used to combine MIDI data from various sources into a single source.
MIDI Message An instruction transmitted from one MIDI device to another. Each MIDI message contains at least two numbers: one that identifies the type of message being sent, and one that represents a value for the selected type of message.
MIDI Patcher A device that allows the routing of one or more MIDI signals to various MIDI devices. Typically reconfigurable to allow for different routings of the data. MIDI Ports The three connectors that pass MIDI data into (MIDI IN), out of (MIDI OUT) and through (MIDI THRU) a MIDI device.
MIDI Time Code (MTC) A timing system used as a universal reference for all the devices in a MIDI network. Represents the information contained in a SMPTE signal using MIDI messages.
MMC For "MIDI Machine Control," the MIDI-based protocol that allows the controls of one MMC-compliant device to affect the transport mechanism of another.
MME Multi Media Extension drivers are slower than ASIO or WDM as they are controlled by the Windows O/S. Because of this, it's best to use ASIO or WDM if supported by the software application.
Modeling A process that imitates the sonic characteristics of another instrument or device. Analog modeling recreates the sound of synth waveforms, while tone wheel modeling captures the sound of classic organs. Advanced COSM modeling creates realistic emulations of popular and classic microphones, guitars, guitar amplifiers and studio reference speakers.
MSB For "Most Significant Byte." The MSB value is one half of a full MIDI Bank Select message (the second half is the LSB value). Control Change Number 00 is the MSB Bank Select.
MTC For "MIDI Time Code," a form of SMPTE used for the timing synchronization of two or more MIDI devices.
Multi-Timbral A word that describes a device that can play more than one instrument or patch at a time.
Macro A shortcut that performs a multi-step operation as a single action.
Marker A bookmark for a specific time location used by V-Studios and CD-R/RW recorders.
Master Device One device controls the timing of synchronized devices. That device is the master. Any device controlled by the master is a slave device.
Mastering The final step in the process of preparing a mix for publication and/or mass-duplication.
Mastering Track The pair of V-Tracks onto which the final mix is recorded. Mastering tracks can be burned onto an audio CD.
Mastering Tool Kit A suite of professional-quality effects that prepares audio for transfer to an audio CD.
Memory Card A credit-card-sized card that can store patch or other kinds of data.
Meter A device that shows the level of a signal.
Meter Bridge A separate piece of mixer hardware that provides an additional array of meters.
Metronome A device or software function that produces a discrete pulse. Used to synchronize music with a specific tempo.
Mic A common nickname for "microphone."
Mic Level The low-level signal produced by microphones and electric instruments such as electric guitar or bass.
Micfrophone A device that converts sound waves into audio signals.
Mix As a noun, a signal that contains one or more other signals -- typically a mix is a pair of stereo signals that contains numerous mono and stereo signals, along with effects, combined together. As a verb, the act of creating such a combined signal, or of using a mixer in general.
Mixdown A common synonym for the noun "mix."
Mixer A recording device that allows several different audio sources to be combined. Provides independent control over each signal's loudness and stereo position. also, someone who operates a mixer.
Modeling A process by which the characteristics of one signal are applied to another. Roland's advanced COSM modeling creates realistic emulations of popular and classic microphones, guitars, guitar amplifiers and studio reference speakers.
Modulation A technical word for "change." In synths, a modulator changes a pre-programmed value. Common modulators include mod wheels, D Beams, envelopes, LFOs, keyboard velocity and aftertouch.
Mod Wheel, Modulation Wheel One of several common continuous controls on a MIDI device. Often used to add a vibrato effect to a sound.
Monitor As a noun, a speaker, or set of speakers, for the purpose of listening to a mix; as a verb, to listen.
Monophonic, or Mono A single signal. The ability to play only one note at once. A characteristic of some older synthesizers.
Mono Mode An operating mode in which a synth or sampler sounds only a single note at a time no matter how many notes are played. When a new note is played, the previous note is stopped.
Muddy Listening term. A sound that is poorly defined, sloppy or vague. For example, a "muddy" bass is often boomy with all the notes tending to run together.
Multitimbral A device that can play more than one patch at a time, typically through the use of a performance or multitimbre.
Multitrack In traditional recording technology, the ability to layer multiple different audio signals at once. In MIDI software, the ability to layer numerous MIDI data streams.
Mute As a noun, a switch that allows you to silence a channel's signal. As a verb, to silence an audio signal.
N
Normalize The process by which the gain of digital audio is increased to its maximum allowable volume.
Notation Program A notation program allows one to play music into a computer via a MIDI keyboard and have the notes instantly appear on the screen, immediately available for printing. More advanced programs feature additional editing, note-entry and printing options.
Notching A form of EQ in which a selected frequency and a specified number of frequencies above and below it -- called a "band" -- are affected.
Note On Commands A channel voice message that indicates a note is to begin sounding. Contains two additional data bytes: Note number and Note velocity.
Now Line The dark vertical line at the center of a playlist that represents your current position in the playlist. Also called a "timeline." Nyquist Frequency The highest frequency that any given digital audio system can capture. Defined as one half the sampling rate of that system.
O
Octave A frequency ratio of 2:1. A musical distance (interval) of 12 semitones.
Optical Connector A connector that transmits digital data as light using fiber-optic technology.
Oscillator An electronic device capable of generating a recurring waveform, or a digital process used by a synthesizer to generate the same.
Out of Phase A situation in which the soundwave cycles in one signal reach their greatest amount of air pressure as the cycles in a similar signal reach their least; the two signals will cancel each other out.
Outboard External, as in an "external device."
Output A jack that sends out a signal from a device.
Overdub The ability to record one sound on top of another.
Overload What occurs when a signal is so loud that it exceeds the capabilities of the device through which it's passing.
Overtones See "Harmonics"
P
PCM For "Pulse Code Modulation," the method used for recording and storing samples in many synths.
PS/2 PS/2 is a wiring standard for computer peripheral devices developed by IBM.
Pad A device that lowers the level of a signal. Also an oversize button you can strike to play a sound.
Pan To move a signal from the left to the right of a stereo field, or vice versa.
Panning The left/right positioning of a signal within a stereo image.
Parameter Characteristic elements of a sound that are usually programmable in a synthesizer or other MIDI device.
Parametric A type of EQ that can be adjusted to boost or cut any frequency within its overall range; may also have a user-definable bandwidth.
Part An object within a performance or multitimbre that plays a patch. Each part has its own set of parameters, including MIDI channel, key range (or "zone"), and offsets to the selected patch's own settings.
Partial A sine wave component of a complex sound.
Patch In a synth, a set of tones along with parameters that determine their behavior. In recording, a temporary connection made between two audio devices, or within one. Also variously known as programs, timbres, or voices. The name used for the sounds that can be generated by a MIDI device.
Patch Cord An audio cable used to connect the output of a device to an amplifier or mixer.
Patch Editor A category of MIDI software used to control the sound characteristics of a synthesizer from a computer.
Pattern A short musical passage recorded as MIDI data.
Peak A sudden high-volume burst of signal.
Performance An object that contains 16 parts, each of which plays a patch. Performances allow you to use multiple patches together as splits or layers, and when working with a multitrack sequencer in some synths. In some synths, performances also incorporate an arpeggiator and rhythm patterns.
Period The time required for one cycle in a periodic waveform. Period is the inverse of frequency.
Phantom Power The power required for the operation of a condenser microphone when it's not supplied by internal batteries or a separate power supply.
Phase The relative position of a wave to some reference point.
Phasing The synchronization -- or lack thereof -- of the sound waves in two similar signals. Also an effect in which a swirling sound is added to a signal by creating a very slightly delayed copy of the signal and in which the copy's delay time fluctuates, similar to flanging.
Phase Cancellation The complete cancellation of audio that occurs when two signals are 180 degrees out of phase.
Phase Distortion A type of audible distortion caused by time delay between various parts of the signal.
Phone Connector A 1/4" connector used for the transmission of mic or line-level audio.
Phono Connector A small audio connector used for the connection of line-level signals and S/PDIF-format digital audio connections.
Pitch A continuous frequency over time.
Pitch Bend Paddle, Pitch Bend Wheel A MIDI controller that can vary the pitch of a sound.
Playlist A list of all of the data to be played in a song or project, presented on a horizontal, left-to-right axis.
Polarity Refers to whether or not the hot and ground leads in two audio cables are connected to their destinations in the same manner.
Poly Mode An operating mode in which a synth or sampler can play multiple notes at once, as in a chord.
Polyphony The number of waveforms or oscillators a synth can simultaneously play.
Portamento An operating mode in which one note glides to the next.
Potentiometer (Pot) A variable resistor used to alter voltage.
Post The designation for accessing audio just after it leaves a particular channel component. For example, "post-fader" grabs audio just after it leaves a channel's main level control before it gets to its panning control.
Pre-amplifier, Pre Is a device that takes a source signal, such as from a microphone, and passes this signal on to a power amplifier. The preamp may have a number of controls such as source selector switches, balance, volume and possible more tone controls, such as an equalizer or compressor.
Presets Typically, the sounds permanently stored by the manufacturer in a sound generating device.
Programs See "Patches" A two-byte MIDI message that corresponds to a specific patch. When an instrument receives a Program Change message, the corresponding patch is selected for use.
Pumping The undesirable sound of a compressor or expander switching on and off.
Punching The process of re-recording sections of a previously recorded track. The act of starting a punch is called "punching in." Ending a punch is called "punching out."
Q
Q A synonym for "bandwidth."
Quantize, Quantization Rounding or truncating a value to the nearest reference value. In a sequencer, used to adjust recorded material so it will be performed precisely on a selected division of the beat. In digital audio, the range of numbers used for specifying amplitude levels of a recorded signal. (16 bit quantization = 65,536 values; 8-bit = 256, etc.)
R
RAM For "Random Access Memory," the type of temporary, volatile memory used in a device for the storage of user data. If the device has battery-backed RAM, its contents are preserved at power-off. Otherwise, RAM memory is cleared when the device is turned off.
RCA Connector Another name for a phono connector.
RF For "Radio Frequency," interference from local radio stations that's sometimes picked up and passed along audio cables.
ROM For "Read-Only Memory," the type of memory in a device that can permanently store sounds and other data. The contents of ROM memory cannot be changed by a user.
RPS For "Realtime Phrase Sequence," a feature that allows you to trigger a pattern by playing a single key. With RPS, each key can play its own pattern.
Ratio The amount of gain change to be applied to a signal that exceeds or falls below the threshold settings of a compressor or expander, respectively.
Realtime 1. A realtime process is one that occurs while you're recording or playing back without requiring you to stop either action since it takes place in "real time." 2. A recording or realization of a sound processing procedure as it occurs..
Reception Mode One of four basic configurations used by a synthesizer that determines how it will respond to incoming data.
Recover To reload a song or project you've backed up. When you recover backup data, the data returns to its original, playable, editable form.
Re-do You can reverse an undo by performing a "redo."
Region A region is a section of time within a project, defined by the placement of IN and OUT edit points -- it's the portion of the project that falls between these two edit points.
Release With an envelope, Release sets the speed at which the envelope returns to its zero setting. In a dynamics processor, it sets the speed at which the processor stops working.
Removable Disk Drive A hard drive device whose disk platter resides on a cartridge that can be removed from the device and replaced with another cartridge.
Resonance A gain control that raises the level of the cutoff frequency. This control can be manipulated manually using performance techniques such as velocity, or automatically using enveloping or LFOs.
Return A bus or input jack that receives signal, typically from effect outputs.
Reverb An effect in which the ambience of a physical space is simulated -- a signal is copied many times, and the copies are heard one after another at decreasing levels, so closely together that they are not perceived as individual events.
Rhythm Pattern A musical passage that uses drum and percussion sounds.
Rhythm Set A type of sound that plays a different patch on each key.
Rhythm Track More often than not, the rhythm track is the catch-all name for the recorded tracks of the drums, bass, rhythm guitar and keys, or some combination of these instruments. In some personal studios, it is an extra track that plays pre-recorded rhythm patterns.
Ribbon Controller A strip across which you can drag your finger back and forth to manipulate a sound in realtime.
Riding The process of continually adjusting a signal's level.
Roll Off In EQ, the reduction of the level of lower-most or upper-most frequencies.
ROM Read Only Memory. Permanent memory in a computer or MIDI device.
Routing The connection of a component's output to the input of another component. For example, you can route input jacks to input channels, input channels to tracks, Aux busses to effects or to output jacks, and so on.
S
SCMS For "Serial Copy Management System," the system used for write-protecting digital audio so that no unauthorized digital copies of the audio can be made.
SCSI Short for "Small Computer System Interface." SCSI is a set of cabling and data standards for the passing of data between storage devices.
SCSI Bus The data stream running through cabling connecting a series of SCSI devices.
SMF Short for "Standard MIDI File."
SMF Library The vast collection of interactive song files for keyboard instruction, instrumental and vocal accompaniments and contemporary and traditional church music. In addition, thousands of "play for fun" titles include lyrics and harmony for sing-alongs.
SMPTE For "Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers"; synchronization technology used for coordinating the timing of audio and video equipment.
S/PDIF For "Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format," a standard for the sending and receiving of digital audio data; typically uses phono connectors.
SPP Short for "Song Position Pointer."
Sample A recording of audio in a synth or sampler. In digital recording, one of thousands of recordings of audio captured each second.
Sample Frequency Another term for "sample rate."
Sample Rate The number of times per second a digital device captures an image of a signal. Must be twice the highest frequency one wishes to capture.CDs use a 44.1kHz sample rate -- 44,100 samples per second.
Sampler An instrument that digitally records audio. Playback of the recording can be triggered using a keyboard, pads or other mechanisms. 2. An electronic device that can record, alter and playback digital audio data under the control of a MIDI data stream.
Sampling Digitizing a waveform by measuring its amplitude fluctuations at some precisely timed intervals. The accuracy of the measurements is a function of the bit resolution.
Scene Mixer settings saved in the internal memory of a V-Studio or digital mixer. A scene can be quickly recalled, re-establishing all of its settings instantly.
Send A bus or output jack that transmits signal.
Send-and-Return Effect An effect routing that adds an effect to a signal by sending a copy of the signal to an effect, and mixing the effect's output with the original signal. Commonly used for reverbs and delay-based effects. Also called a "loop effect."
SENS Shortened form of "Sensitivity knob", this is a trim knob for the preamp level.
Sequencer A MIDI recorder that captures MIDI data and can play it back in realtime.
Shelving A type of EQ in which all frequencies above or below a selected frequency are affected; low shelving affects all frequencies below the selected frequency; high shelving all those above it.
Shielding The electric or magnetic materials used in a cable that protect its signal from unwanted noise.
Signal A general term for audio as it travels through audio cables and equipment.
Signal Flow The journey a signal takes from one place to another.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio The range or distance between the noise floor (the noise level of the equipment itself) and the music signal.
Sine Wave The most basic waveform, consisting of a single partial. Forms the basis of all complex, periodic sounds. The waveform of a pure alternating current or voltage. It deviates about a zero point to a positive value and a negative value. Audio signals are sine waves or combinations or sine waves.
Slapback Type of reverb whose beginning is slightly delayed to simulate the reflection of sound off of a physical wall; also called- "pre-delay.
Slate A spoken label recorded at the beginning of a take, such as "Remix, Take 1."
Slave Device One device controls the timing of synchronized devices. That device is the master. Any device controlled by the master is a slave device.
SMPTE Time Code A timing standard adopted by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers for controlling different audio and video devices. Allows a sequencer and an external device such as a tape recorded to stay synchronized. Smart Media A credit-card-sized memory card that can store patch and/or other kinds of data.
Snapshot A captured group of mixer settings that reflect the state of the mixer at a particular moment within a song or project -- the mixer can recall the snapshot and re-instate its settings at the proper moment during the playback of the song or project.
Soft Button, Soft Knob A multi-use button or knob on a digital mixer whose function is defined by software.
Solo When monitoring, the isolation of one signal by silencing all other signals.
Song Position Pointer (SPP) A type of MIDI message that communicates song/sequence/project location information by transmitting the number of 16th notes since the beginning of the song/sequence/project.
Sound Card A common PC component with a D-to-A (digital to analog) converter and a set, or "wavetable," of sounds. Also a credit-card-sized storage device that holds synth and sampler patches and waveform data.
Sound Module A MIDI device whose sole purpose is to generate sounds. A sound module typically contains patches, and may contains its own effects as well.
Sound Pressure Level (SPL) Given in decibels (dB) is an expression of loudness or volume. A 10dB increase in SPL represents a doubling in volume. Live orchestral music reaches brief peaks in the 105dB range and live rock music easily goes over 120dB.
Sound Waves Sound waves can be thought of like the waves in water. Frequency determines the length of the waves; amplitude or volume determines the height of the waves. At 20Hz, the wavelength is 56 feet long!! These long waves give bass its penetrating ability. (This is why you can hear car bass/boom speakers blocks away.)
Split A mixer with a separate section for controlling multi-track tape returns.
Standard MIDI File (SMF) A standardized form of data that contains a MIDI recording of music in the Standard MIDI File format. Such as file can be played by any SMF-compatible sequencer or playback device. The most common SMF types are Type 0 files with multiple tracks combined into a single multi-channel track, and Type 1 files comprised of separate individual tracks.
Standing Wave A buildup of sound level at a particular frequency that is dependent upon the dimensions of a resonant room, car interior, or enclosure. It occurs when the rate of energy loss equals the rate of energy input into the system. This is what you hear when you listen into a sea shell.
Status Byte The first byte of a MIDI message that specifies what type of message it is.
Step Time Entering notes one by one, as opposed to real time recording in a sequencer.
Stereo From the Greek meaning "solid." The purpose of stereo is not to give you separate right and left channels, but to provide the illusion of a three-dimensional, holographic images between the speakers.
Stretch Tuning Traditional acoustic piano tuning that slightly sharpens the highest keys and slightly flattens the lowest keys for psychoacoustic purposes.
Strip Short for "channel strip."
Style A musical passage that can contain all of the elements of a musical arrangement and can be played as a single object.
Subframe A subdivision of a SMPTE or MTC frame equaling 1/98th of a frame.
Sustain pedal A pedal on a MIDI controller (or acoustic piano) that, when pressed, causes sustaining notes to continue to play until the pedal is released.
Sustain In a traditional envelope, the level at which an enveloped setting remains after the Attack and Decay stages until the key is released.
Sweep In EQ, to quickly listen to all of the frequencies in a signal one after another.
Synchronization, Sync The coordination of timing between audio and/or video devices.
Synth, Synthesizer An instrument that synthesizes new sounds from raw audio materials such as waveforms. A synth may also generate its own completely original sounds using oscillators.
SysEx, System Exclusive A type of MIDI message that contains instructions that can be understood only by a specific MIDI device identified by manufacturer, model and SysEx ID number.
System Real-time Messages Commands used to synchronize one MIDI device with another.
T
TOC For "Table of Contents," the directory on an audio CD that allows its player to find each selection on the CD.
TRS Short for "Tip/Ring/Sleeve." A type of 1/4" audio cable connector that uses three wires for carrying audio signals and for grounding. The wires are attached to the connector's tip, ring and a second ring called a "sleeve."
TVA (Time Variant Amplifier) The component within a tone or partial that controls the level of its audio, and sets its stereo position, or "panning."
TVF (Time Variant Filter) The component within a tone or partial that controls the frequency content of its audio.
Take A take is an audio file recorded on your hard drive. In general studio usage, "take" refers to an attempt to record a performance, successful or otherwise.
Tempo The rate of speed at which a musical composition proceeds. Usually uses a quarter note as the timing reference.
Terminator A separate device or internal drive mechanism that electrically terminates a SCSI chain of devices. Each SCSI chain must have a terminator at both ends. V-Studios and Roland sample-based devices provide termination for one end of a SCSI chain.
Tick The smallest division of a quarter note.
Timbre The quality of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds of the same pitch and volume. The distinctive tone of an instrument or a singing voice. Tone color.
Timbral Refers to the overall frequency balance of a system. In a perfect world, all systems would have complete tonal neutrality. With current technology, this ideal is approached but not met. Listening to many equally "good" speakers will reveal that some sound warmer than others, some sound brighter, etc.
Tone The basic building block of a patch. A tone contains several components that play and shape a waveform. These are the WG (wave generator), TVF (time variant filter), TVA (time variant amplifier), envelope and LFO. One or more tones are the foundation of every patch.
Timeline The dark vertical line at the center of a playlist that represents your current position in the playlist. Also called a "now line."
Threshhold A designated level that triggers an action in a compressor, gate or expander.
Track A stream of recorded audio data.
Track Minutes A method of expressing the available recording time by measuring the maximum length of a single monaural track of recorded data.
Transients Instantaneous changes in dynamics, producing steep wave fronts.
Transparency Listening term. An analog that can be best "pictured" in photography. The more "transparent" the sound, the clearer the auditory picture.
Treble The higher frequencies in a signal.
Tremelo A rapid alternation of two tones. Usually a third apart. On a synthesizer, this effect can usually be controlled by the modulation wheel or modulation amount.
U
USB Audio Interface A USB interfaces allows the transfer of audio to and from a computer via a USB connection, the use of software drivers is required.
USB MIDI Interface An interface for connecting a MIDI device to a computer using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. The industry-standard USB cable is convenient for users who frequently change between Mac and PC platforms.
Unbalanced A type of connection that utilizes only two of the leads -- the high and ground -- of a cable, connector and jack.
Undo Allows you to reverse your most recent recording and editing actions. This is called "undoing" the action.
Unity Gain A circuit with unity gain will not increase or decrease the volume level.
V
V Knob A multi-use knob whose function is defined by software.
Velocity A measure of the speed with which a key on a controller is pressed. Used to determine volume characteristics of note.
Velocity Sensitivity The amount by which changes in velocity affect a tone or patch.
Vibrato A rhythmic fluctuation in pitch.
Virtual Orchestra A GS/General MIDI module effectively creates a multi-part ensemble for orchestral or combo accompaniments, with up to 16 distinct orchestral sounds or timbres.
Virtual Track A set of one or more recorded phrases arranged in the order in which they're to be played back. A realtime controller based on the force with which a MIDI device's keys or (pads, etc.) are struck.
Volume A general term for a signal's loudness.
W
WAV A commonly used type of hard disk file that contains audio, developed by Microsoft. Also called ".wav" or "WAVE" files. There are many professionally recorded drum and other instrumental loops available as .wav files for use in song construction.
Waveform 1. In a synth or sampler, the raw material from which a patch is constructed. A waveform is one or more samples of an instrument or other type of sound. Each tone or partial in a patch plays a waveform, as selected by the tone's or partial's wave generator. In a V-Studio, an audio signal displayed in a grid. The horizontal axis shows elapsed time, and the vertical axis shows volume, or "amplitude." 2. The graphical display of a sound pressure wave over time.
Wavelength The distance the sound wave travels to complete one cycle. The distance between one peak or crest of a sine wave and the next corresponding peak or crest. The wavelength of any frequency may be found by dividing the speed of sound by the frequency. Speed of sound at sea level is 331.4 meters/second or 1087.42 feet/second.
Wavetable A storage location that contains data used to generate waveforms digitally.
Warmth A listening term. The opposite of cool or cold. In terms of frequency, generally considered the range from approximately 150Hz-400Hz. A system with the "proper" warmth sill sound natural within this range.
WDM An acronym for Windows Driver Mode. This low latency driver allows software applications to stream audio directly without going through the Windows operating system.
Wet A signal to which an effect has been applied.
WG (Wave Generator) The component within a tone that selects the desired waveform and sets its basic behavior.
Word Clock A type of timing information carried within a digital audio signal that keeps multiple digital recording devices precisely synchronized when exchanging digital audio.
X Y
Y-Cable An audio cable with one jack on one end and two on the other.
Z
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