direct injection

Direct Injection (DI)

Method to record instrument level directly, avoiding spill and providing clean sound.

DI Box

Device connecting instruments to preamp/mic input, with options for ground lift.

Phantom Power

Provides power to microphones requiring it, typically 48v.

Ground Lift

Reduces unwanted electrical hum by breaking ground loop.

Audio Interface

Device with built-in DI circuit for direct recording without a DI Box.

Hi-Z

Label on audio interface indicating a high impedance input for instruments.

Dynamic Mic

Type of microphone suitable for recording bass/electric guitar amps.

On Axis

Positioning the microphone directly facing the speaker for brighter sound.

Off Axis

Positioning the microphone away from direct facing for duller sound.

Proximity Effect

Increase in lower frequencies when directional mic is closer to the source.

Room Ambience

Amount of environmental sound captured by the microphone.

SPL

Sound Pressure Level, higher at the centre of the speaker.

Kick Drum Mic

Dynamic mic suitable for recording bass amps due to bass response.

Shure SM57

Dynamic mic ideal for recording electric guitar amps.

Centre of Speaker Cone

Position affecting frequency response and brightness of the sound.

Distance from Cone

Affects prominence of lower frequencies and room ambience captured.

Spill

Sound leakage from one source into another microphone.

Preamp

Device that amplifies low-level signals to line level for recording.

Link Output

Output from DI Box to connect guitar signal to an amplifier for recording.

Amp Circuit

Circuit in bass/guitar amp where DI signal can be recorded before speaker output.