A term that has taken on a specific meaning, but which is in fact much broader in its definition. Technically, distortion is any change in the shape of an audio waveform compared between two points in a signal chain. Therefore adding EQ and compression also adds distortion to the original signal.

A method of reception providing protection from signal loss due to multi-path nulls, which are localized small areas with a very low RF signal level caused by multi-path propagation.

The taking of a audio file with a high sample rate, and sample rate converting down to a lower sample rate. Used in particular when a project is recorded at a high sample rate and the audio files need to be prepared for CD distribution.

In wireless microphones, a loss of RF signal, which in turn results in loss of audio or audio that is noticeably noisy. Also refers to a small physical area where there is insufficient RF signal present to obtain satisfactory wireless operation. Dropouts are normally caused by multi-path or signal blockage due to some type of obstruction.

Piece of software that handles communications between the main program and a hardware peripheral, such as a soundcard, printer or scanner. Drivers are constantly being updated due to OS rewrites and the like.

Refers to a type of multi-pin connector that is commonly used for computer connectivity, although in last few years manufactures such as Tascam and Digidesign use the D-Subminiature connector for supplying multi-channel audio to and from their systems.

Ducking : A system for controlling the level of one audio signal with another. For example, background music can be made to "duck" whenever there is the need to hear a voice over.

Large Diaphragm Condenser: LDCs have become something of a commodity in recent years, ranging in price from $10,000 at the high-end all the way down to sturdy and functional LDCs costing less than $100. Prized for their round, smooth attack, these mics sound great when recording voices, acoustic guitar, and bowed string instruments, or when used as room mics.

An RCA connector, sometimes called a phono connector or cinch connector, is a type of electrical connector commonly used to carry audio and video signals. The name "RCA" derives from the Radio Corporation of America, which introduced the design by the early 1940s to allow mono phonograph players to be connected to amplifiers.

The XLR connector is an electrical connector design. XLR plugs and sockets are used mostly in professional audio and video electronics cabling applications, for microphones and line level signals. Home audio and video electronics normally use RCA connectors for line level signals generated by a preamplifier.