Alesis ADAT-XT manual Glossary, Or Analog-to-Digital Converter

Glossary

GLOSSARY

A

A/D or Analog-to-Digital Converter

The device that converts an analog audio signal to digital audio. Once encoded, all audio is stored or processed as a series of numbers rather than as the audio itself.

AES/EBU Interface

A two-channel, digital audio hardware/software standard. The AES/EBU interface allows for data communication between professionally-oriented digital devices (such as digital signal processors, hard disk recording systems, synthesizers with AES/EBU outputs, digital audio workstations, etc.).

Autolocation

The process of automatically rewinding or fast forwarding, as necessary, to find a specific point on tape. Autolocation is usually initiated by pressing a button that tells the machine the point to which you want it to autolocate.

Automation

Generally, automation means using a machine or computer to perform or repeat one or more tasks. In recording systems, automation refers to the process of recording and playing back mixer movements such as faders and mute buttons. In many sophisticated systems, all controls can be automated.

Auto Loop

A combination of two functions, Auto Return and Auto Play , which allows a specific section of tape to be played over and over again; particularly useful for looped recording whe used along with the Auto Record function.

Auto Play

A function whereby playback is automatically engaged upon completing a locate.

Auto Record

A function whereby recording is carried out automatically. The point where recording begins is determined by the Mark In point. The point where recording ends is determined by the Mark Out point.

Auto Return

A function whereby the transport automatically begins to rewind once reaching a certain point, and returns to an earlier point. The point at which rewinding begins is called the Auto Return End point. The point that is returned to is called the Auto Return Start point.

B

Balanced Audio Signals

Signals that are carried on three-conductor cables, with two of the conductors carrying the same signal 180∞ out of phase and third as ground. Balanced connections usually cost more than unbalanced connections, but are less susceptible to picking up hum and interference with low-level signals.

Bounce

86 ADAT XT Reference Manual