Audio Communication Basics

Study Notes

Hertz (Hz): The unit of frequency, measuring the number of cycles per second. One Hz equals one cycle per second.
Frequency: Refers to the number of times a sound wave oscillates per second, measured in Hz. Higher frequency corresponds to higher pitch.
Standard Hertz (Hz) Ranges:
- 20Hz to 20,000Hz: Theoretical human hearing range.
- 80Hz to 4000Hz: Human voice range (higher for females).
- 44,100Hz: CD audio quality.
Decibels (dB): Measure the amplitude (loudness) of a sound wave. Higher amplitude means louder sound.
Standard Decibel (dB) Ranges:
- 0dB: Threshold of human hearing (minimum audible sound).
- 96dB: 16-bit audio recording level.
- 144dB: 24-bit audio recording level.
Dynamic Range: The difference between the loudest and quietest sounds in a recording.
Tracking: The process of recording audio either from a voice or an instrument.
Gain, Volume, and Level:
- Gain: Input signal/loudness measured.
- Level: Loudness measured in mixer relative to unity.
- Volume: Output signal loudness.
Equalization (EQ): Adjusting the balance of different frequencies within an audio signal. Used to increase (boost) or decrease (cut) specific frequencies.

Compression: A technique used to control the dynamic range of audio. It reduces the difference between loud and soft sounds.
Compression Ratio: Describes the amount of reduction in the audio signal for a given increase beyond the threshold. Higher ratios mean more compression.
Threshold: The level at which the compressor starts to work.
Attack Time: How quickly the compressor reacts to the sound going above the threshold (milliseconds).
Release Time: How quickly the compressor stops reacting to the sound going below the threshold (milliseconds).
Hard Knee: The compressor abruptly changes to reduced volume past a threshold.
Soft Knee: The compressor gradually reduces volume past the threshold.

Definition of a Game: Possess "family resemblances"—various components, but with shared characteristics. Games are voluntary; occur in space and time; are uncertain, and are unproductive.
Winning Condition: Not always necessary. As examples, animal crossing, etc.
Games as Narratives: Distinction between games and storytelling. Both are different but have elements in common.
Components of a Game: Material components (physical objects), rules, and player experience.

DAW (Digital Audio Workstation): Software for audio editing.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface): Standard protocol used to connect electronic instruments to a computer.
AD/DA (Analog-to-Digital/Digital-to-Analog): Processes converting between analog and digital signals.
ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release): Parameters controlling how audio effects react to input.