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The envelope describes the variation of a sound wave's amplitude over time, defined by its Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release (ADSR). In recording, it characterizes the dynamic evolution of sound.

The decibel is a logarithmic unit that measures the intensity of sound. In recording, it is used to describe the level of audio signals.

Harmonics are frequencies that are integer multiples of a fundamental frequency. In recording, they add richness and complexity to sounds, influencing timbre.

Amplitude refers to the strength or level of a sound wave, which affects its loudness. In recording, higher amplitude results in a louder sound.

Diffusion is the dispersal of sound waves in many directions after striking a surface. In recording, diffusion is used to reduce the prominence of direct reflections and flutter echoes, leading to a more even sound field.

The sampling rate is the number of samples of audio carried per second, measured in Hz or kHz. In recording, a higher sampling rate can capture more detail, up to the limits imposed by the Nyquist theorem.

Timbre describes the quality or color of a sound that distinguishes it from others, even if they have the same pitch and loudness. It is affected by the sound wave's harmonic content and is crucial in recording to capture the character of voices and instruments.

Direct sound is sound that travels in a straight line from the source to the listener or microphone. In recording, capturing direct sound is essential for clarity and presence.

A standing wave is a vibration of a medium in which some points remain fixed, while others between them vibrate with maximum amplitude. In recording, standing waves can create uneven frequency response in a room, leading to acoustic issues.

Early reflections are the initial sound reflections from walls, floors, and ceilings that reach the listener shortly after the direct sound. In recording, they can enhance the sense of space but must be controlled to prevent unwanted coloration.

Dynamic range refers to the difference in decibels between the quietest and loudest sounds a system can produce without distortion. In recording, a wider dynamic range allows for better capture of nuances.

Attack time is the time it takes for a compressor or envelope to begin to act after a signal exceeds the threshold. In recording, it affects the initial impact and transients of a sound.

Gain is the amount of increase in audio signal strength, usually measured in dB. In recording, adjusting gain correctly is essential to achieving an optimal signal level without distortion.

Frequency is the number of cycles of a sound wave per second, measured in hertz (Hz). In recording, it determines the pitch of the sound—the higher the frequency, the higher the pitch.

Reverberation is the persistence of sound in an enclosed space due to multiple reflections. In recording, it gives a sense of space to the sound but can also muddy the clarity if excessive.

Equalization is the process of adjusting the balance between frequency components within an electronic signal. In recording and mixing, EQ is used to shape the tonal balance of audio.

Sound pressure level is a measure of the pressure of a sound wave relative to a reference value and is expressed in decibels (dB). In recording, it is important to monitor SPL to avoid distortion and damage to equipment.

Release time is the time it takes for a compressor or envelope to return to its initial level after the signal drops below the threshold. In recording, it affects how quickly a sound 'fades back' to its normal level.

A DAC converts digital data into an analog audio signal. In recording, a high-quality DAC is essential for accurately reproducing digital sounds in a form that speakers or headphones can use.

In audio processing, the threshold is the level above which an effect such as compression starts to be applied. In recording, setting the correct threshold is crucial for the correct application of dynamic range processing.

A transducer is a device that converts energy from one form to another. In recording, microphones and speakers are transducers that convert sound waves into electrical signals and back.

Wavelength is the distance between two corresponding points on consecutive waves. It is inversely proportional to frequency, and in recording, different wavelengths will interact with the environment differently, affecting how sound is captured.

Phase refers to the position of a point within a sound wave cycle. In recording, phase differences can lead to constructive or destructive interference, affecting the overall sound.

Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or through openings. In recording, diffraction affects how sound propagates in an environment and influences microphone placement.

Signal-to-noise ratio is the measure of the desired signal level to the level of background noise, expressed in decibels (dB). A higher SNR in recording indicates a clearer and cleaner sound capture.

Total harmonic distortion is the ratio of the sum of the powers of all harmonic frequencies above the fundamental frequency to the power of the fundamental, expressed in percent. Low THD in recording equipment ensures higher fidelity to the original sound.

Compression in audio is the process of reducing the dynamic range of a sound. In recording, it is used to control the levels of audio signals and maintain a consistent volume.

Impedance in acoustics refers to the resistance a medium presents to the passage of a sound wave. In recording, matching impedance between equipment is crucial for optimal signal transfer.

Polarity refers to the orientation of a wave's positive and negative values. In recording, incorrect polarity can cause phase issues leading to sound cancellation.