KRK ERGO manual Appendix Glossary of Terms

Appendix: Glossary of Terms

A/D - short for Analog to Digital Conversion. The conversion of analog data or information into digital or binary form (See binary).

ASIO – Audio Stream Input Output. ASIO, developed by Steinberg, is a cross-platform, multi-channel audio transfer protocol. It allows software to have access to the multi-channel capabilities of a wide range of powerful sound cards.

Binary - A digital numbering system based on two where data is expressed as combinations of "0"s and "1"s). Bit - A single unit of digital information expressed as a "0" or "1.”

Core Audio - This is an ultra-low latency, high quality MAC-compatible audio driver that is built directly in to the OS X operating system.

Decibel (DB) - A unit of measurement for expressing sound pressure level (SPL), signal level and variation or differences in signal level.

Digital To Analog Converter - A circuit used to change binary data that make up the digital audio signal into discrete voltage levels that approximate the original analog audio waveform. Abbreviated as D/A converter.

DSP - An abbreviation for Digital Signal Processing (Any signal processing done after an analog audio signal has been converted into digital audio.

Dynamic Processing (Dynamic Signal Processing) - An signal processing system which automatically changes the gain to maintain a preset level ratio or relationship between the loudest and quietest passages of music.

Dynamic Range - The level difference, expressed in dB, between the loudest level and quietest level of a recording or live audio source.

Filter - A circuit that removes or acts on certain frequency signals above or below a predetermined point called a cut-off frequency.

Frequency - The rate or speed at which an audio source generates complete cycles in one second. The number of cycles that occur in one second is call hertz (Hz).

Frequency Range - The range of frequencies over which an electronic device delivers its best performance or over which a sound source will produce substantial energy.

Frequency Response - A plot or graph of frequencies that an audio device, such as a mic, amplifier or speaker, can accurately reproduce within stated parameters or conditions.

Harmonics - A tone along with whole-number multiples of the fundamental tone that distinguish the pitch of a particular instrument or sound.

Harmonic Distortion - The occurrence of harmonics in the output signal of a playback device or amplifier which were not present in the original input signal.

Hertz (Hz.) - A unit of frequency measurement used to express the number of complete cycles occurring in a one-second interval. Abbreviated as Hz.

I/O - Short for "Input/Output." A port or in-line control for channeling the flow of signal data to and from a device.

kHz - The Abbreviation for kilohertz (1,000 Hz). LED - See light emitting diode.

35