A panel or component containing a series of jacks with connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the console and components in the studio, used for the purpose of organizing, managing and regulating signal flow.
An insulated cable with plugs on each end used to route audio signals. Patch cords are typically thought of as short cables used to make connections in the patch bay (hence the name); however, patch cords facilitate almost any kind of audio connection between devices, can come in a wide range of lengths, and can include a number of different types of connectors.
See “Patch Bay.”
A computer program allowing for the storing of sound patches outside of a synthesizer via MIDI.
Short for Signal Path, the way in which current does or may travel in a circuit or through a device.
See “Pulse Code Modulation.”
An EQ circuit/filter that boosts or cuts the middle (center frequencies in an audio signal, as opposed to high-pass or low-pass filters. (NOT to be confused with amplitude peaks.)
A meter which detects the absolute peak value of a waveform, as opposed to the RMS value. (See also “Peak Value,” “Root-Mean-Square,” “RMS Meter.”)
The measure of the maximum positive or negative value (amplitude) of a waveform at any moment. In audio, this is visually depicted as the farthest point of the waveform above or below the zero axis.
The measure of the total amplitude between positive and negative peaks in an audio signal. Equal to twice the peak value for a sine wave. (See also “Peak Value.”)
A board with several guitar pedals attached and inter-connected so that a guitar player can conveniently activate a number of different effects.
A system used to supply DC voltage to condenser mics and other components through the audio cables, eliminating the need for external power supplies.
A measurement (expressed in degrees) of the time difference between two similar waveforms.
The increased audio energy that happens when waveforms are in similar phase relationships, resulting in an increase in volume up to twice what it should be.
