Deck Flashcards
(28 cards)
What does a sample rate of 44.1kHz mean?
It means the audio is sampled 44,100 times per second — the standard for CD-quality audio.
Why might you use a higher bit depth (e.g. 24-bit) when recording?
It allows for more dynamic range and better quality, reducing noise and distortion.
What’s the difference between a stereo and a mono audio track?
Mono plays the same signal through both speakers; stereo uses two different signals (left/right) to create a wider sound field.
What settings must you check before starting a DAW project?
Sample rate, bit depth, file location, tempo, time signature, and correct audio device routing.
Why is file management important in a DAW project?
It avoids missing files, keeps the project organised, and ensures everything is saved correctly for future editing.
What does quantizing do in MIDI editing?
It snaps notes to the nearest beat/grid to fix timing issues.
Name three ways to improve the arrangement of a basic loop-based track.
Add automation, vary instrumentation, use effects, add fills or transitions, and build dynamic structure (intro, drop, bridge, etc.).
What is the difference between destructive and non-destructive editing?
Destructive editing permanently changes the audio file. Non-destructive editing makes reversible changes within the DAW.
What is EQ used for in mixing?
To boost or cut specific frequencies and shape the tonal balance of a sound.
What does a compressor do?
It reduces the dynamic range by making loud sounds quieter and quiet sounds louder, creating a more consistent level.
Why might you pan one guitar left and one right in a mix?
To create space and stereo width, making the mix sound more open.
What makes a good mix?
Balanced levels, clarity between instruments, controlled dynamics, creative but appropriate use of effects, and attention to stereo space.
You hear distortion in a vocal track. What are two likely causes?
Clipping from recording too loudly or over-processing with effects (e.g. too much gain/distortion).
What are two health risks of working with audio equipment for long periods?
Hearing damage from loud volumes and repetitive strain injuries from poor posture.
Name two ways to back up a DAW project.
Save to an external hard drive and upload to cloud storage.
Why is gain staging important?
To prevent distortion and ensure clean signal flow through the mixing chain.
What is automation and how can it improve a mix?
Automation lets you change volume, panning, or effect settings over time, adding movement and variation.
You’re exporting a finished mix. What settings do you check?
File format (e.g. WAV/MP3), sample rate, bit depth, stereo/mono, export range, and loudness level.
Why would you bounce/render tracks before mixing?
To reduce CPU usage, freeze MIDI instruments, or commit to sounds for mixing.
What is a dynamic microphone and when is it typically used?
A dynamic mic is durable, handles high sound pressure levels, and doesn’t need external power. It’s ideal for loud sources like drums, guitar amps, and live vocals.
What is a condenser microphone and when would you use one?
A condenser mic is more sensitive and accurate, capturing detailed, high-frequency sounds. It’s great for vocals and acoustic instruments in studio settings. It requires phantom power.
Why is it important to choose the right microphone polar pattern?
It determines how the mic picks up sound (e.g. cardioid picks up from the front, rejecting background noise; omnidirectional picks up all around).
What is proximity effect in microphone use?
It’s the increase in bass response when a sound source is very close to a directional mic — useful for adding warmth, but can muddy the mix if overdone.
What is delay and how is it different from reverb?
Delay repeats the original sound after a set time. Unlike reverb, which creates a wash of reflections, delay creates clear echoes — useful for rhythmic or spacey effects.
