Glossary of Technical Terms
Here's a simple glossary of some terms you
may come across in your dealings with IKO Productions. Feel free to ask an
associate to explain any of these to you in better detail, or to discuss a term
that may not be listed.
Acoustics
What we hear as sound is a class of physical kinetic energy called acoustical
energy. Acoustical energy consists of fluctuating waves of pressure in the air.
Acoustics properties are mostly commonly evaluated to produce the best sound
possible. The acoustic qualities of a room are determined by its size and shape.
Factors influencing the acoustical properties include the shape, amount and
positioning of sound-absorbing and reflective material in the room.
Array
A group of loudspeakers arranged in order to have a certain pattern of coverage.
This is essential in producing even distribution of sound throughout the venue.
Back-line
A broad term used to describe any type of performance equipment. This can
include guitar and bass amplifiers, drum sets, and keyboard instruments.
Cable
Various types of wiring used to interconnect the components of a sound, lighting
or video system. They include: microphone cable, speaker cable, snake cable, B&C
cable, DMX Cable and electrical cable.
Compressor
In audio, an electronic device used to reduce the dynamic range of an audio
signal, usually for one of three reasons – to avoid overloading an audio
circuit, to protect speakers from overpowering damage, or to provide a variety
of special effects.
Console
A device used to control and augment sound, lighting, or video. For more
information see Mixer
Digital Audio Tape (DAT)
A digital recording format which allows up to 3 hours of recording time on a
tape half the size of a standard analog cassette, with the same digital format
as a compact disc (CD) – 44.1 KHz, 16 bits
Delay
In audio, refers to the practice of electronically delaying certain audio
signals to permit the time-alignment of separate audio sources. A “delay zone”
is a speaker set up closer to the rear of the audience than the main speakers,
with its output delayed to match the sound from the main speakers. Also refers
to the device itself, i.e. an electronic digital delay unit.
D.I. box (direct injection box)
A device used to connect electric instruments such as keyboards and basses
directly to a mixing console without the use of a microphone.
Feeder
In audio, refers to heavy-gauge electrical power cable used to supply electrical
power to an entire system. Often times used to connect the main power at the
venue / generated power to the IKO Productions power distribution system.
Generator
A gasoline or diesel powered machine that is used to produce electricity. Used
where commercial power is unavailable or too distant.
Gate
In audio, an electronic device used to shut off a signal path when the signal
drops below a preset level. This device is often used to reduce leakage of
unwanted signals into microphones.
Line array
A loudspeaker system comprised of similar elements vertically stacked to produce
a clearly-defined and controlled coverage pattern. This system is the most
popular tool used for high fidelity audio solutions where maximum quality and
resolution is needed.
Mixer (console, desk)
A device used to process different audio signals (playback, microphones),
combine them, and deliver the combined mix of signals to the amplifier(s) which
power a sound system.
Monitor
Refers to loudspeakers used by performers to hear their own voices and
instruments more clearly on stage during a performance.
PA system (Public Address)
A general term for a sound system used to make voices and instruments audible to
large audiences.
Production Manager
In the entertainment world, refers to a person responsible for organizing the
elements of production. This includes everything from lighting, sound, staging,
crew, catering and trucking. This individual is usually not in charge of the
band.
Side fill
Loudspeakers on stage at far stage left and stage right, aimed inward toward the
performers. See monitor
Snake
A cable containing many individual circuits, used most often to send microphone
signals from a performance stage to the mixing console located in the audience.
Sound reinforcement
A comprehensive term used to describe all functions of managing and amplifying
audio. This involves the use of many tools and expertise to produce quality
sound.
Wireless
This term refers to electronic equipment that allows performers with greater
mobility. This may include wireless microphones which transmit radio signals to
receivers. In addition, wireless signals can be passed back to the performer
through the use of an in ear monitoring system. Almost all professional-quality
wireless systems use the UHF band of radio frequencies.
