 to another over telephone lines in high speed, digital quality and with great fidelity.
Limiting – The use of an audio processor to keep audio from exceeding a certain level or threshold as determined by the engineer.
Maximization or Maximize – A mastering process that includes the use of an audio processor to bring audio up to a maximum level as determined by the engineer.
Mix – A fully produced, finished or broadcast ready audio presentation that may include voice, music, sound effects, all necessary processing and maximization. Usually provided in stereo unless the final format is mono only (such as a phone system)
Mixing – The process of manipulating and combining multiple audio signals or elements to create a final audio production or mix.
Noise – Any sound that is undesirable or unwanted.
Processing – Any alteration of raw audio through the use of audio tools such as compression, equalization (EQ), maximization, or time-based/space-based effects (i.e. – delay or reverb).
Raw Audio – Any recorded audio that is unedited and unprocessed. Delivery of “raw audio” means to provide clients with audio exactly as it was recorded.
Reverb – A space/time based effect that simulates an environment. All environments have an effect on a sound within that environment. Example: A voice heard in a stadium sounds different than a voice heard in a closet. Reverb can be used to simulate the sound of both environments. Some people refer to this as “echo” (IMPORTANT NOTE: the use of reverb is very dependent on an overall production and therefore is rarely added unless a full mix is being produced).
Sample Rate/Bit Rate – Essentially the amount of digital information used by the computer in the creation of an audio file. The higher the rate, the higher the supposed quality of the file. However, beyond a certain point (for most people above 44.1kHz/16 bit) the difference in sound quality is undetectable. Therefore, the need to obtain/verify this information becomes necessary primarily for compatibility among files or systems.
44.1kHz/16bit = CD quality audio
48kHz/16bit = Video standard for audio
Slate – A recorded audio cue that identifies the audio that follows. Generally stated as, “take one (followed by the recorded VO), take two (followed by the recorded VO) take three…” etc.
Stems – Individual elements of a mix provided separately. Voice, music, and sound effects provided as separate files instead of combined in a full mix.
Takes – A separate file of recorded audio. Each take is identified by a separate file name and a slate.
Time Compression/Expansion – An electronic process using an algorithm which leaves the pitch of the signal intact while changing its speed (tempo)