Technological Terms

Technological Terms

Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)

DAWs are software applications used for producing, editing, and recording music.
Examples include Cubase, Logic Pro X, and Ableton.
DAWs provide a variety of tools like sequencers, mixers, and virtual synthesisers.

Audio Interfaces

Audio interfaces are hardware devices that allow audio gear to communicate with your computer and DAW.
They convert analog signals to digital (A/D conversion) and digital signals back to analog (D/A conversion).
Audio interfaces connect to your computer via USB, Firewire or Thunderbolt.

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface)

MIDI allows electronic musical instruments, computers, and other devices to connect and communicate with one another.
MIDI does not transmit an audio signal — it sends digital note information (such as pitch and velocity).
MIDI data can be used to trigger virtual instruments within your DAW.

Sample Rates

Sample rate refers to the number of samples of digital audio that are taken per second.
Common sample rates include 44100 Hz (CD quality), 48000 Hz (DVD quality), and 96000 Hz.
Higher sample rates can reproduce higher frequencies, yet they also require more storage space.

Bit Depth

Bit depth refers to the number of bits of data in each sample, and it directly corresponds to the resolution of each sample.
Typical bit depths include 16-bit (CD quality) and 24-bit (professional audio).
Greater bit depth means more dynamic range, leading to a clearer and more detailed sound.

Mixing and Mastering

Mixing is the process of combining multiple individual tracks into a stereo mix.
Mastering is the final step to balance the different elements of a mix and ensuring it will sound good on all playback systems.
Tools used in mixing and mastering include equalisation, compression, reverb, and limiting.