• Accuracy: Refers to the believability of audio reproduction, often associated with how closely it resembles real instruments in a performance space. Related: Realism, Believability, the absolute sound.
• Bass: Low frequencies (20–200 Hz).
• Believability: The sense that reproduced sound is convincing and realistic, integrating the captured instrumental and vocal elements with studio effects. See: the absolute sound.
• Black Background: A term for low noise and distortion levels that enhance small details like reflections and harmonics.
• Brightness: An elevated treble region (4–10 kHz), affecting the tonal balance. See: Frequency Balance.Definition: See Resolution.
• Dynamics: The ability to reproduce a wide range of soft and loud sounds without distortion. Good dynamics result in terms like punch, pace, and drive.
• Frequency: Measured in Hertz (Hz), frequencies range from low (e.g., bass at 20 Hz) to high (e.g., treble at 20,000 Hz). Includes fundamentals and harmonics.
• Frequency Balance: Describes the relative levels across the frequency spectrum, either overall (e.g., tilted toward treble or bass) or octave-to-octave, affecting tonal accuracy.
• Frequency Response: How a device reproduces input signals across the frequency range, ideally “flat” but sometimes tailored for specific purposes.
• Midrange: Middle frequencies (300–3000 Hz).
• Noise Level: Refers to inaudible noise levels that impact the clarity of small signals and low-level details.
• PRaT (Pace, Rhythm, and Timing): A measure of how well a device handles timing, minimizing blur and delays for better musical engagement.
• Realism: The extent to which reproduced music resembles a live performance, though subjective due to varying recording methods and listener perceptions.
• Resolution: The clarity and separation of sounds, contributing to a detailed, blur-free audio experience.
• Soundspace: The impression of the size and shape of the venue based on reflected sounds, from a large concert hall to a small club.
• Soundstage: The perceived 3D placement of instruments and voices in a performance, describing the width, depth, and positioning.
• Tilt: See Frequency Balance.
• Transparency: The faithful transmission of audio signals, combining resolution and naturalness for realistic reproduction.
• Treble: High frequencies (4000–20,000+ Hz).
• Warm: A tonal quality with slightly elevated mid-bass and lower midrange (80–400 Hz), often perceived as pleasing.