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The measure of the strength or intensity of a sound wave, which corresponds to the volume of the sound. In mixing, adjusting amplitude levels ensures that no instrument or vocal overwhelms the others.

A dynamic range processing technique that reduces the volume of loud sounds or amplifies quiet sounds by narrowing or 'compressing' an audio signal's dynamic range. For example, vocals are often compressed to make them sit well in the mix.

A time-based effect that simulates the natural acoustical reflections from surfaces in a space to create the sense of an environment. For instance, adding reverb to a snare drum can make it sound like it's in a larger room.

The process of adjusting the balance between frequency components within an audio signal, which can bring out certain instruments or make space for others to fit in the mix. For instance, cutting low frequencies on a guitar can prevent it from clashing with the bass.

The distribution of a sound signal (either mono or stereo) into a new stereo or multi-channel sound field. For instance, panning a guitar to the left and a piano to the right can create a wider stereo image.

An acronym for Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release, which are parameters used to define the shape of a sound's amplitude over time. For example, tweaking the ADSR envelope of a synthesizer can alter the characteristic of a sound, making it more plucky or pad-like.

The technique of capturing a sound or series of sounds to be re-used in a musical context. For instance, a drum break from an old record might be sampled and looped to create a new beat.

The process of aligning notes to a grid based on a specified time division, often used to correct timing issues. Quantizing a MIDI performance can tighten up a rhythm section that was played in slightly off-time.

A form of dynamic range compression triggered by an external audio source. A sidechain compressor can be used to lower the volume of a bass line when the kick drum hits, helping the drum cut through the mix.

The process of combining multiple layers of audio to form a final track. Mixing adjusts levels, panning, EQ, and effects to ensure each instrument or voice complements the others, like mixing a live band so every member can be heard distinctly.

The final step of audio post-production, which involves preparing and transferring the mixed audio to a data storage device (the master). Mastering makes the final mix sound balanced across different playback systems and can also involve sequencing the record.

The technique of programming the changes in controls or settings during playback. Automation can be used to gradually increase the volume of a guitar solo over time, ensuring it stands out when necessary.

The sequence of audio processing units through which a sound signal flows. A typical vocal signal chain might include a microphone, preamp, compressor, and equalizer before it reaches the recording device.

Short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, a technical standard that describes a protocol, digital interface, and connectors and allows a wide variety of electronic musical instruments, computers, and other devices to connect and communicate with one another. A MIDI keyboard can be used to trigger sounds from a synthesizer.

The process of managing the levels of audio signals at each stage in the audio signal path to prevent distortion or noise. Proper gain staging involves adjusting the gain levels to optimize the signal-to-noise ratio without clipping.

Acronym for Digital Audio Workstation, a software platform for recording, editing, mixing, and producing audio files. Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, and Ableton Live are examples of popular DAWs used to create music.

Short for Virtual Studio Technology Plugin, a software interface that integrates audio synthesizer and effect plugins with audio editors and hard-disk recording systems. For example, a reverb VST plugin can be used to add spatial effects to recorded sound.

The amount of available volume that allows a signal to increase in level without distorting. When mastering, engineers often leave headroom to avoid clipping during loud passages.

A device that connects an instrument such as a guitar or bass directly to an audio interface or mixer, often providing a cleaner signal path. A DI box is frequently used to record bass guitar to ensure a clean and low-noise signal.