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See “Normalled.”
A setting of a digital delay/reverb effects unit that approximates concert halls. Hall programs are characterized by pre-delay of up to 25 ms.
In compression, refers to a more abrupt introduction of compression of the signal once the sound level crosses the threshold. (See also “Knee.”)
The presence of harmonics in the output signal of a device which were not present in the input signal, usually for the purpose of changing the instrument’s timbre.
Whole number multiples of the fundamental frequency that occur naturally within the playing of a tone. Mathematically, if the fundamental frequency is x, the harmonics would be 2x, 3x, 4x, etc. For example, if the fundamental frequency of the note played is 440Hz (or A-440), the harmonics would be 880Hz, 1320Hz, 1760Hz, and so on. The presence of harmonics in the tone is what creates the timbre of an instrument or voice.
In tape recording, an electromagnetic transducer that magnetically affects the tape passing over it. Recording/playback heads change the audio signal from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back, for recording and playback purposes. An erase head creates a powerful electromagnetic field to the tape to erase previous signals from the tape.
The difference in dB between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device. Also describes the difference in dB between the peak levels of a recording and the point at which the signal distorts. (Also called “Margin.”)
1) The unit of measurement for frequency, specifically, the number of complete wave cycles that occur in a second (cycles per second). 1 Hz = 1 complete wave per second. 2) A popular rental car company (not typically used in recording except for transport to the studio).
In drum sets, double cymbal on a stand, usually positioned next to the snare, which can be played with a foot pedal and/or by the top cymbal being hit with a stick.
See “High Impedance,” “Impedance.”
(abbreviated Hi-Z) Described as an impedance or resistance of several thousand ohms. In microphones, Hi-Z is typically designated as 10,000 or more ohms. (See also “Impedance.”)
An audio filter that attenuates signals below a certain frequency (the cut-off frequency) and passes signals with frequencies that are higher.
Short for “high frequencies,” loosely the frequencies above 4000 Hz. Usually meant in the context of “highs, mids and lows” in an audio signal.
1) A speaker or speaker enclosure where sound waves are sent by a speaker cone or driver into a narrow opening which flares out to a larger opening. 2) One of several different types of brass musical instruments.
A reference signal such as SMPTE time code that is used to keep all devices in the room in sync.
