Audio Basics and Terminology

What is an Audio Interface?

• a machine that makes music for you

• A device that connects to your computer and allows you to record to your DAW software using microphones and electric instruments such as guitars and keyboards.

• A software program that records music

• None of the above

What is a pre-amp?

• It's what you connect your microphone to on an audio interface

• its a guitar amplifier

• its what you connect to your amp before your guitar

• energy drink

What are the differences between a USB mic and an XLR mic?

• You dont need an audio interface with a USB mic. It has the audio interface built in.

• The quality of a USB mic is usually not as good as an XLR mic.

• an XLR mic is usually more expensive

• None of the above

What is the difference between an XLR and Line cable

• XLR cables have a male and female side. The male side has 3 pins inside of them with a round casing

• Line cables have a long single tip.

• A line cable is typically used for keyboard and guitars

• An XLR cable is used to connect microphones to a pre-amp.

Which one is an example of a Line cable? HINT: this connects guitars

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Which is an example of an XLR cable? Hint: Used to connect mics

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What is Phantom Power?

• a ghost who comes into your house and grants you THE POWER!

• Condenser and Ribbon mics require this to be powered on. Audio Interfaces and Mixers have this built into them.

• All microphones need this

• Phantom of the Opera

The different microphone types are? (select all that apply)

• Condenser mic (USB and XLR)

• Dynamic mic

• Ribbon mic

• Dropped mic

What kind of mic is this?

• Condenser mic

• Dynamic mic

• Ribbon mic

What kind of mic is this?

• Dynamic

• Condenser

• Ribbon