Music Glossary: recording-and-production category

Two-opposed signal lines and a shield reject common-mode noise over long runs (XLR/TRS). more

Processing applied to grouped tracks (drums, guitars, vocals) for glue and cohesion. more

Assembling a master performance from multiple takes using playlists/editing. more

Performer-specific headphone mixes balancing backing and self; vital for performance. more

Device converting high-Z unbalanced to low-Z balanced, often with ground lift for noise control. more

Setting levels at each stage to maximize headroom and minimize noise/distortion. more

Unwanted hum/buzz caused by multiple ground references; solved with isolation/grounding strategy. more

Conservative peaks (-12 to -6 dBFS) on digital capture to prevent intersample and plug-in overload. more

Filter that attenuates low frequencies to reduce rumble/proximity; common on mics/preamps. more

Integrated and short-term loudness units used for streaming/broadcast targets. more

Final mix processing (EQ, compression, limiter, meter) respecting headroom and translation. more

Device that amplifies low-level mic signals to line level with minimal noise and color. more

Directional sensitivity shapes (cardioid, omni, figure-8); affects bleed, proximity, tone. more

Figure‑8 side plus cardioid mid; matrixed to variable width stereo with mono compatibility. more

Delay during tracking due to buffers/plugins; mitigated via direct monitoring or low buffers. more

Blend of heavily compressed signal with dry to retain transients and density. more

DC power provided on balanced mic lines to run condenser mics/active DI boxes. more

Time/phase adjustment between mics or DI+amp to avoid comb filtering and restore punch. more

Mesh/foam barrier and technique to reduce plosives (P/B) in vocal recording. more

Bass buildup with directional mics at close distances; artistic or requires HPF. more

Replacing sections during recording seamlessly at defined in/out points. more

Sending recorded DI signal back to amps/pedals; capture tone later while keeping performance. more

Commercial mixes used to calibrate tonal balance and loudness during mixing/mastering. more

Distant mics to capture space; balanced with close mics for depth and realism. more

Absorption at first reflections, bass traps in corners, and sensible placement for accurate monitoring. more

Control signal from one track affecting a processor on another (e.g., kick ducks bass). more

Coincident/near-coincident arrays (XY, ORTF, NOS), spaced pairs (AB), and Blumlein for image capture. more