Microphone Capsule – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a microphone capsule? A microphone capsule is the component of a microphone that converts sound waves into electrical signals. It is essentially the heart of a microphone, responsible for capturing sound and converting it into a usable form. The capsule is typically housed within the body of the microphone and is made up … Read more

Boom Arm – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Boom Arm? A boom arm is a piece of equipment used in audio recording and broadcasting to hold a microphone in place. It is typically attached to a desk, table, or stand and allows for easy adjustment of the microphone’s position. Boom arms are commonly used in podcasting, voice-over work, and live … Read more

ADAT Recorder – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is an ADAT Recorder? An ADAT Recorder is a digital audio recording device that uses the Alesis Digital Audio Tape (ADAT) format. This format was introduced in the early 1990s as a way to record multiple tracks of audio onto a single tape. ADAT Recorders were popular in professional recording studios and home studios … Read more

Subwoofer – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Subwoofer? A subwoofer is a type of loudspeaker specifically designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds, typically in the range of 20-200 Hz. These low-frequency sounds, also known as bass, are crucial for enhancing the overall audio experience, especially in music, movies, and gaming. Subwoofers are commonly used in home theater systems, car audio … Read more

Potentiometer (Pot) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Potentiometer (Pot)? A potentiometer, commonly referred to as a “pot,” is a type of variable resistor that is used to control the flow of electric current in a circuit. It consists of a resistive element and a sliding contact, which can be adjusted to change the resistance value. Potentiometers are commonly used … Read more

Figure-8 Pattern – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

I. What is a Figure-8 Pattern? A Figure-8 Pattern, also known as a bidirectional pattern, is a type of microphone polar pattern that picks up sound equally from the front and back of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides. This pattern resembles the number 8 when plotted on a polar graph, hence the … Read more

Mic Stand – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a mic stand? A mic stand, short for microphone stand, is a piece of equipment used to hold a microphone in place during a performance or recording session. It allows the microphone to be positioned at the desired height and angle for optimal sound quality and performance. Mic stands come in various shapes, … Read more

Contact Microphone – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Contact Microphone? A contact microphone, also known as a piezo microphone or a pickup microphone, is a type of microphone that picks up sound vibrations directly from the surface it is attached to, rather than capturing sound waves in the air like traditional microphones. Contact microphones are designed to convert mechanical vibrations … Read more

Tape Recorder – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Tape Recorder? A tape recorder is a device used for recording and playing back audio signals on magnetic tape. It consists of a tape transport mechanism, recording and playback heads, and electronic circuitry for processing the audio signal. Tape recorders have been widely used for decades in various applications such as music … Read more

Power Conditioner – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Microphones and Audio Hardware Glossary

What is a Power Conditioner? A power conditioner is a device designed to improve the quality of electrical power supplied to electronic devices. It is commonly used to protect sensitive equipment, such as audio and video equipment, from power surges, spikes, noise, and other electrical disturbances. Power conditioners are often used in recording studios, home … Read more