User Guide

Glossary
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fader A device that allows you to control the level of an audio signal by sliding
the fader up and down a straight path. Each input on the IO|14/26 has
its own fader in the Zero Latency Monitoring application.
Firewire A standard for connecting external devices to a computer. Also called
IEEE 1394a
gain The measure of extra amplification applied to an audio signal. Each
analog input on your IO|14/26 has its own gain knob, which can be
used for boosting mic and line signals.
IEEE 1394a Another name for Firewire.
insert A special “access point” found in mixers and some audio interfaces that
allows you to place an audio device (such as a compressor) in the signal
path. Inserts are placed after the preamplifier and before the remaining
electronics in your signal path. They require special “insert” cables.
latency The time it takes for audio to travel from the IO|14/26, through the
computer’s recording program, and out again to your speakers (or
heaphones). Latency is measured in either samples or milliseconds.
level The amount of power driving an audio signal. The most common
names given to levels of varying voltage are, from lowest to highest,
“microphone” level, “instrument” level and “line” level.
master section The section of a mixer where the main mix is controlled.
mic preamp An amplifier that boosts a microphone or instrument-level signal up to
line level.
mixer A device whose purpose is to combine and output a number of audio
signals, allowing various types of signal manipulation.
mono (monaural) Refers to an audio signal that has only one channel. The opposite of
stereo.
pan
A
control that lets you position a mono signal within the stereo spectrum
by altering the level of the signal being sent to the left channel as
opposed to the right.
phantom power A way of providing power to condenser microphones. Also known as
+48volt power.
return A line input whose function is to carry back to the mixer an audio signal
that has been sent from the mixer. Returns are used in conjunction with
“insert” points.