Studio introduction.

Signal flow.

• Understanding signal flow is vital to the smooth running of a studio session.

• What type of signal is it and what type of cable/connector does it use?

• Where does the signal start, where should it go (both in hardware and software) and where should it end up?

Studio connections - an introduction:

Analogue -

• Mic level audio - uses XLR cable.• Line level audio - uses jack-to-XLR or XLR

via DI box. Can also use phono, jack-to-jack and minijack.

• Instrument level (high impedance hi-Z) audio - uses 1/4” jack.

Studio connections - an introduction:

Digital -

• S/PDIF - uses well-screened 75 ohm phono cable to carry stereo signal.

• ADAT optical - optical cable capable of carrying up to 8 24 bit, 44.1 or 48kHz audio channels.

Studio connections - an introduction:

Digital continued -

• MIDI - uses 5 pin DIN plug to communicate synchronisation, automation and musical instructions between studio equipment.

• Firewire / IEEE1394 - used to connect digital audio interfaces to computer. Interfaces using other connectors (eg, USB, PCI, etc…) also exist.

Connections needed in a typical recording session:

• Microphones/instruments from live room to computer/recorder.

• Computer/recorder to desk/studio monitors.

• Computer/recorder to live room/musicians (headphones/cue mix).

• Engineer to live room/musicians (talk back).