Audio Recording and Editing Flashcards
7 cards from real CMP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Audio Recording and Editing flashcards as text
What does 'clipping' refer to in audio recording?
Answer: Signal distortion that occurs when a signal exceeds the maximum level a system can handle
Clipping happens when the amplitude of an audio signal surpasses the system's ceiling, causing the waveform peaks to be 'clipped' flat and creating harsh digital distortion.
What is the purpose of a DI (Direct Injection) box in a recording session?
Answer: To convert an unbalanced high-impedance instrument signal to a balanced low-impedance mic-level signal
A DI box allows instruments like electric bass or guitar to connect directly to a recording console or interface by matching impedance and converting to a balanced signal, reducing noise and interference.
In stereo recording, what is the key advantage of the Mid-Side (MS) technique over XY?
Answer: MS allows the stereo width to be adjusted during post-production without re-recording
Because MS records a mono mid signal and a side (difference) signal separately, the stereo width can be increased or decreased in the mix by adjusting the level of the side channel.
What is 'phantom power' (48V) used for in audio recording?
Answer: To supply operating voltage to condenser microphones through the XLR cable
Phantom power sends +48V DC through the XLR cable to power the internal electronics and polarize the capsule in condenser microphones, which cannot operate without it.
What is a 'click track' used for during a recording session?
Answer: A metronome signal given to performers via headphones to keep a consistent tempo
A click track provides performers with a steady tempo reference through their headphone mix, ensuring all recorded parts align to the same rhythmic grid for easy editing later.
What recording technique is used when a vocalist records their performance in multiple layers to create a thicker, chorus-like effect?
Answer: Double-tracking
Double-tracking involves recording the same vocal part twice (or more) and layering the recordings; the slight natural timing and pitch variations between takes create a fuller, wider sound.
What does 'signal-to-noise ratio' (SNR) measure in audio recording?
Answer: The difference in level between the desired audio signal and background noise
SNR expresses (in dB) how much louder the desired signal is compared to the noise floor — a higher SNR means a cleaner, less noisy recording.