IAT 380: Sound Design

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary terms related to sound design, specifically in relation to reverberation, audio processing, and acoustics.

Reverberation

The time it takes for sound to die away to a level 60 decibels below its original level.

Dynamic Range (SNR)

The ratio of the loudest possible undistorted sound to the quietest background noise.

Fourier Transform

A mathematical transform used to analyze the frequency spectrum of sound waves.

Noise Level

The level of background sound that can interfere with the clarity of recorded audio.

Peak Limiter

A device used in audio processing to prevent clipping by controlling the peak levels of the audio signal.

Sound Propagation

The movement of sound waves through a medium.

Direct Sound

Sound that reaches the listener directly from the source.

Indirect Sound

Sound that reaches the listener after reflecting off surfaces.

Diffusion

The scattering of sound to create a desired auditory effect.

Musique Concrète

An avant-garde music genre that uses recorded sounds, including environmental noises, to create compositions.

Convolution Reverb

Reverb created by using impulse responses to simulate the acoustics of real spaces.

Plunderphonics

A compositional technique that involves reusing recognizable sonic quotes from recordings.

Analog Audio

Audio signals that are continuous and vary in amplitude.

Sampling Rate

The number of samples of audio recorded every second, typically measured in kilohertz.

Acoustic Chamber Reverb

Natural reverb produced in a room with highly reflective surfaces employing microphones and a loudspeaker.

Spring Reverberation

A reverb type using the vibrations of a metal spring to create echoes.

Digital Reverberation

Reverb simulated through computer software to emulate the sound characteristics of physical spaces.

Reference Level

A standard audio level against which other sound levels can be measured.