Frequently asked questions - Glossary & definitions

Glossary & definitions

Art-Net A super network connection that sends DMX commands to lots of lights at lightning speed, using a cable like those used for the internet.
Astro A light effect that projects colorful, starry beams, perfect for transforming your evening into a festive galaxy!
Barndoor / Shutters Small panels that block or direct the light to shine exactly where you want it.
Beam A super-thin, intense beam of light, like a laser, for stunning effects at your parties.
Bluetooth A wireless connection to control your lights or play music from your phone, without cables!
Candela A light output meter, like the brightness of a candle, so you know how bright your light is shining.
COB An ultra-powerful LED that emits vibrant colors, ideal for spotlights that illuminate everything!
Color temperature The color of your light (warm like a candle or cool like neon), measured in Kelvin for the perfect ambiance.
Color wheel A disc in a lyre that changes the color of the light in the blink of an eye for stylish transitions.
Coupler An accessory to connect multiple batteries and boost the power or battery life of your lights.
CRMX A wireless system that sends DMX commands to your lights without interference, for a smooth, professional show.
CT/TC (Color Temperature) The color of your light, from warm orange (1800K, like a candle) to ice blue (10,000K), to create the perfect atmosphere.
CTO/CTB Magic filters to make your light warmer (orange) or cooler (blue), depending on the mood you want to create.
Daylight Natural white light (5600-6500K), like beautiful midday sun, for clear, vibrant lighting.
Daylight White light (5600-6500K) that mimics the sun, perfect for natural and energetic lighting.
Derby An effect that swings colorful beams in all directions for an immersive party atmosphere!
Dimmer A button or box to adjust the intensity of your lights from 0% (off) to 100% (full light)!
DMX The conductor of your lights! This system controls up to 512 channels to manage colors, movements, and intensity.
DMX Addressing Give each light a specific number so that the console knows which one to talk to during a light show!
DMX HF DMX, but in wireless mode (WiFi), to control your lights without getting tangled up in cables.
DMX universe A group of 512 DMX channels to control all your lights in a show, like a well-organized team.
Driver A box that powers your LED lights and allows you to adjust their intensity, like a lighting remote control.
Eggcrate A grid that narrows the light beam for precise lighting without spilling everywhere.
Flightcase A sturdy case to transport your projectors safely, with or without wheels, for pros on tour.
Fresnel A special lens that allows you to switch from a narrow beam (spot) to wide lighting (flood) to vary the mood.
Frost A filter that softens the light for gentler effects without changing the shape of the beam.
Gaffer Strong adhesive tape to secure cables or equipment, or the lighting director who manages the entire light show!
Gelatin Colored films that you place in front of a light to change its hue for a personalized atmosphere.
Gobo A small disc with a pattern that you put in a projector to project cool shapes or logos onto walls.
HSI A system for choosing the hue (color), saturation (color intensity), and brightness of your lights.
Hue The pure color of your light (from 0 to 360°), like choosing between red, blue, or green on a color wheel.
Incandescent A classic light that heats a filament to provide light, like old light bulbs, but energy-intensive.
IRC (Color rendering index) A rating (0 to 100) that tells you if your light makes colors look natural, like under the sun. The higher the rating, the better!
Kelvin The unit for measuring the hue of light, from warm (orange) to cool (blue), to choose the mood for your party.
Key Light The main light that illuminates your subject (such as a DJ or a set), so that it shines in the center of the stage.
Laser A super-precise and intense beam of light for stunning visual effects at your parties.
Louver A grid in front of a projector to focus the light where you want it, without dazzling everyone else.
Lumen A measurement of the total amount of light emitted, so you know if your projector will light up the whole room.
Lux A measurement of the light intensity on a surface, so you know if your light is strong enough for your party.
Lyre A robotic projector that moves in all directions (up/down, left/right) for dynamic lighting effects.
Mapping A technique for projecting images or videos onto 3D objects, transforming a wall into a visual spectacle.
Master-slave A system where one light (master) gives commands to the others (slaves) to synchronize the effects.
Match Matching the light from one projector to another source, such as a light bulb or screen, for perfect harmony.
Minette A small, lightweight, portable lamp, ideal for lighting a specific area or filming a party.
Movinghead Another name for a lyre: a projector that dances (up/down, left/right) for amazing effects!
Mushroom A lighting effect with lots of colorful beams that intersect, for an impressive club atmosphere.
Octa An octagon-shaped light box for soft, flattering lighting, perfect for photos or videos.
Overcast A cool light (6500-10,000K), like a cloudy sky, for modern, bluish atmospheres.
Pan The horizontal movement of a moving head or projector to sweep the stage from left to right.
PAR projector A projector that emits powerful, focused light, perfect for lighting a stage or dance floor.
Pot A button or slider to adjust the intensity or an effect, such as dimming the lights for a cozy atmosphere.
Powercon A professional connector to plug in your lights, sturdy and reliable for big shows.
Protocol+B40 DMX settings to choose how your lights react (e.g., intensity, color) to suit the style of your event.
Reflector A panel that reflects light to provide soft illumination, like a mirror to boost the atmosphere.
RGB Red, green, and blue LEDs that mix to create all the colors of the rainbow.
RGBW Like RGB, but with an additional white LED for pure, bright whites and even sharper effects.
Rigging Install the projectors high up according to a precise plan so that everything shines in the right place.
Scrim A grid that lowers the brightness of a projector without changing its color, for softer lighting.
Shutter A panel to block or direct the light, to illuminate just the right amount.
Softlight Soft, diffused light that avoids harsh shadows, perfect for a warm atmosphere.
Spacelight A large cylinder that diffuses soft, uniform light, like a chandelier to light up the entire room.
Spot Light concentrated on a specific point to highlight a DJ, a set, or a key moment.
Stroboscope Fast-flashing light for crazy effects, like in an electro music video or on a dance floor.
Tilt The vertical movement of a moving head or projector, to direct the light up and down.
Toplight A light placed above, like a shower of light, to illuminate a subject or scene.
Tungsten Warm filament-based lighting, like old light bulbs, for a cozy but energy-intensive atmosphere.
Warm White A warm light (3000-4500K), like a sunrise, for a soft and welcoming atmosphere.
Wash A wide, diffused light that floods a room with color, perfect for a uniform atmosphere.
Watt An electrical power meter, so you know whether your projector will consume a lot of power or not.
White Very warm light (1900-3000K), like a flame or a classic light bulb, for a retro vibe.
Yoke A mount for hanging or rotating a moving head or projector, for smooth movements.
100 volts A clever system that sends sound over long distances without losing power, ideal for providing sound in a large room or at an outdoor event.
AES/EBU A professional way to transmit crystal-clear digital sound between devices without any loss of quality, for awesome setups!
Power The “power outlet” for your devices, giving them the energy they need to rock your parties, whether with a classic transformer or a modern system.
Alternating (voltage, current, signal) A current that changes direction all the time, like the electricity in your home or the sound coming out of your speakers.
Amplifier, amp The star that boosts sound or energy so your speakers can deliver heavy bass without distorting the music.
Ampere A unit that measures the strength of the electric current, much like the fuel that makes your amps and speakers roar.
Analog A signal that varies smoothly, like a wave, used in classic equipment for a natural, warm sound.
Slave A smart speaker with a built-in amp and electronics that adjust the sound to be perfect for your party.
Asymmetrical A simple connection where a wire is connected to the ground, often used with coaxial cables for easy setups.
Attenuator A small tool that lowers the volume when the sound is too loud, to prevent your party from turning into a noisy mess!
Auxiliary A bonus output on your console to send sound to stage monitors or effects without affecting the main mix.
Balance The setting that balances the sound between left and right or between different instruments, so that everyone can enjoy the atmosphere.
Balanced A professional (balanced) connection that reduces noise for clear sound, even with long cables.
Frequency band The sound ranges (bass, midrange, treble) that a device can handle, like a palette for painting the atmosphere of your party.
Bandwidth The range of frequencies that your gear can reproduce without faltering, for clear sound from low to high.
Coupling bar A handy clip for attaching two microphones together, perfect for capturing stereo sound at your events.
Bass EQ A magic button on your amp to boost the bass and make the floor shake with every beat!
Bass reflex A speaker design with a hole (vent) that enhances the bass for a deeper, punchier sound.
Low frequency (LF) Low frequencies that make your body vibrate, like the bass in an electronic track.
Bi-amplification A technique that uses two amplifiers in one speaker for even more precise and powerful bass and treble.
Shielding Invisible armor that protects your devices from interference, for sound and lighting without glitches.
Windscreen A small foam clip that attaches to a microphone to block wind or pops when you talk or sing.
Boomer (loudspeaker) The star bass speaker that rocks your parties with thumping bass.
DI box A box that makes the sound of your instrument or microphone clearer and compatible with your console for a professional mix.
Bridge A mode where your amp combines its two channels to send maximum power to a single speaker.
BT connection Bluetooth connectivity to stream your music wirelessly, quickly and easily for your parties.
Bus: group, subgroup A way to group multiple sounds on a console and send them together, like a conductor for your party.
Bypass A button that disables an effect or device to leave the sound raw and unadulterated.
Subwoofer A large speaker dedicated to deep bass, perfect for shaking the dance floor.
Sensor A gadget (such as a microphone) that transforms sound or light into an electrical signal for your equipment.
Cardioid A microphone that picks up sound mainly from one direction, shaped like a heart, ideal for isolating a voice or instrument.
Channel A channel on your console where you plug in a microphone or instrument to mix it.
Cinch - RCA A standard connector for plugging in your audio devices, often used at home or for simple setups.
Class, amplification class The operating mode of your amp, which determines how it boosts the sound (A, B, D, etc.) for maximum efficiency.
Cluster A group of speakers or lights hung together to cover a large area with sound or effects.
Compact Disc - CD A disc that contains your music in high quality, up to 80 minutes for your retro parties!
Compression An effect that reduces the differences between loud and soft sounds for a more balanced and professional mix.
Capacitor A component that stores energy and lets audio signals pass through for smooth sound.
Control room The room where you mix and listen to sound in the studio, with special speakers for accurate sound.
Physiological equalizer – Loudness A setting that boosts bass and treble at low volumes so the sound stays rich and vibrant.
Response curve The way your gear handles frequencies, so you know if it's reproducing bass, midrange, and treble well.
Coverage The area where your speaker sends sound or light in the best way to cover the whole party.
Lapel A tiny microphone that clips onto your clothes, perfect for talking or singing discreetly.
Crossover A filter that separates bass, midrange, and treble to send the right sound to the right speaker.
Peak meter A tool that shows the peak volume of your sound to prevent clipping.
Cue-PFL A feature to listen to a track on your console without playing it for everyone else.
Cut A button to mute sound cleanly, perfect for smooth DJ transitions.
Coaxial cable A cable with a central wire and shielding for clear sound, even over long distances.
dB A unit that measures the volume or intensity of the sound, so you know if it's loud or not!
dBspl A sound level meter, so you can see if your gear is rocking the room or staying discreet.
Crosstalk When sound “leaks” from one track to another, creating a slight background noise.
Digital A digitized sound (in 0s and 1s) for modern, precise quality.
Light-emitting diode (LED) A small light that turns on when plugged in, used in projectors for colorful, eco-friendly effects.
Directivity The direction in which a microphone or speaker best sends or picks up sound.
Display Your device's screen, which shows you settings or information to manage your event.
Distortion When sound is distorted, sometimes intentionally (like on an electric guitar) or to be avoided for a clear sound.
Diversity A system for picking up wireless signals without interruption, choosing the best reception.
DMX The conductor of your lights! Control colors, movements, and intensity for shows that rock.
Dolby Pro technology that reduces noise for cleaner sound.
Dynamic The difference between the loudest and softest sounds, for a mix that breathes.
De-esser A tool that softens overly aggressive “s” and “ch” sounds in a microphone, for a more pleasant voice.
Delay An effect that repeats the sound with a slight delay, for a richer atmosphere.
Echo An effect where the sound bounces around, like in a cave, to add depth to your music.
Graphic equalizer A tool for adjusting the volume of bass, midrange, or treble to sculpt the perfect sound.
Electret A type of condenser microphone that maintains a magnetic field to capture sound accurately.
Active speaker A speaker with its own built-in amp, ready to rock your party.
Bass reflex speaker A speaker with a hole that boosts the bass for a deeper, more powerful sound.
Monitor speaker A speaker that allows musicians to hear their sound on stage, also known as a “monitor.”
Passive speaker A speaker that requires an external amplifier to produce sound, offering greater flexibility for professionals.
Satellite speaker A small speaker for midrange and treble frequencies, often paired with a subwoofer for bass.
AUX input A jack for connecting your phone or other device directly to your audio system.
USB input A jack for connecting a USB stick or computer to play your music easily.
USB-C input A modern jack for connecting devices, charging, or streaming audio and video.
Flight case A sturdy case for transporting your gear safely, with or without wheels.
Gain A control that boosts the volume of a signal, so your microphone or music sounds loud.
Gate A tool that cuts out low noise for a clean sound without interference.
Ground The zero reference point for your circuit, to avoid annoying buzzing.
HF, High Frequency Frequencies used for microphones or wireless systems, so you can move around freely.
Hi-Fi High-quality sound that reproduces music as it was recorded, without distortion.
HP Abbreviation for loudspeaker or speaker, the heart of your sound system.
Harmonic The small vibrations that give a sound its “character,” such as the tone of a guitar.
Hertz - Hz The measurement of frequencies, which tells you how many times per second a sound vibrates.
High-pass filter A filter that lets high frequencies pass and cuts low frequencies for clear, crisp sound.
Hypercardioid A super-precise microphone that picks up sound from one direction and ignores almost everything else.
Impedance The resistance of a device to current, measured in ohms, to ensure your equipment is properly matched.
Infrabass Ultra-deep bass (20-50 Hz) that makes your body vibrate, especially with electronic music!
Input – IN The input where you plug in your microphone, turntable, or instrument.
Insert A point to add an effect (such as a compressor) in the sound path.
Intelligibility (index) The clarity with which speech can be understood in a room, for clear announcements or singing.
Intercom A system for the technical team to communicate during an event, like walkie-talkies.
Jack (6.35 / 3.5) A standard jack for connecting instruments, headphones, or microphones, in mono or stereo.
Larsen, Larsen effect - feedback That annoying hissing sound when a microphone picks up the sound from the speaker, to be avoided for a clean evening!
Level The volume level of a track in your mix, to balance the atmosphere.
Line check A check before the show to make sure all microphones and cables are working properly.
Limiter A safeguard that prevents the sound from becoming too loud and saturating.
Linear An amplifier or circuit that reproduces sound without distorting it, for perfect fidelity.
Loudness A setting that boosts bass and treble at low volumes for a richer sound at home.
Loudspeaker Another name for a speaker, which plays your music in the room.
Low-pass filter A filter that lets bass through and cuts treble for heavy bass.
Magnetophone An old device for recording on magnetic tape, like the cassettes of yesteryear.
Mains The main power supply that powers all your equipment.
Master-slave A system where one device (master) controls another (slave), like a console that controls lights.
Mass The zero point of your circuit, to avoid interference and keep the sound clear.
MIDI A language for connecting instruments or devices to a computer to control sounds or lights.
Phasing The art of aligning your speakers or microphones so that the sound comes out at the same time, without any delay.
Mixing The art of mixing multiple sounds to create the perfect atmosphere for your party.
Monitor A special speaker for studios, calibrated for hyper-precise sound.
Monitor (wedge) A speaker placed on the floor so that musicians can hear each other on stage.
Mono, monophony Sound that comes out of a single channel, without stereo effects, simple but effective.
MP3 A format that compresses music to save space, with decent sound for parties.
Multi-effect A device that adds cool effects (reverb, echo, distortion) to pimp your sound.
Multi-amplification Use multiple amps for each part of a speaker for ultra-detailed sound.
Multipair - snake A large cable that combines several lines, so you can connect lots of equipment without clutter.
Mute, muting A button to mute a track, ideal for DJ transitions.
Noise gate A tool that blocks low noise for clean, interference-free sound.
Ohm (O) The unit that measures electrical resistance, important for connecting speakers and amplifiers.
Optical A fiber optic connection for super clear, interference-free digital sound.
Output - Out The output where the sound comes out of your device, ready to rock the crowd.
PA A system for broadcasting announcements or music in large spaces, such as a stadium.
PZM A special microphone that picks up sound using a surface (such as a table) for a natural effect.
Pad A control to lower the volume of a signal that is too loud on a console.
Panoramic A control to place the sound on the left, right, or center for a lively stereo soundstage.
Parametric (equalizer) An equalizer where you can adjust everything (frequencies, volume, width) to sculpt your sound.
Bandpass A filter that lets a range of frequencies through and cuts the rest for a targeted sound.
Low-pass A filter that keeps the low frequencies and cuts the high frequencies for heavy bass.
High-pass A filter that keeps the treble and cuts the bass for a clear, precise sound.
Patch A box for easily connecting multiple devices, like a hub for your gear.
Peak The moment when the sound reaches its maximum volume, to watch out for to avoid clipping.
PFL – CUE A function for listening to a track solo, without playing it to the audience.
Phase (setting) The action of aligning sounds so that they come out at the same time for a clean effect.
Phono A turntable input with a special setting for the best vintage sound.
Pitch A setting to speed up or slow down the music, perfect for DJs who play with tempo.
Frequency plan Frequency organization to avoid interference, like a battle plan for your event.
Weighting, weighted (measurement) A way to filter the sound before measuring it, for more accurate results.
Potentiometer A button or slider to adjust the volume or an effect, like the boss of your mix.
Sound projector A speaker that sends the sound exactly where you want it, for a targeted atmosphere.
Preamp, preamplifier A booster for weak signals, such as those from a microphone, before sending them to the amp.
Microphone priority A function that lowers the music when you speak into the microphone, for clear announcements.
Public address A system for broadcasting messages or music in large spaces, such as a festival.
Musical power A slightly exaggerated measurement of an amp's power, to impress the crowds!
Power handling capacity The maximum power your speaker can handle without burning out.
Peak power The maximum energy your gear can deliver for those moments when you really want to rock.
RMS power The average power your gear can sustain over time for a party without any glitches.
Peripheral An external device (such as an effect or compressor) to enhance your sound.
Rack A piece of furniture to store your electronic devices, well organized for professionals.
Random A random mode, such as playing your playlist in a surprise order.
Signal-to-noise ratio A measure of how clear your sound is compared to background noise.
Ratio The level of compression applied to a sound to balance volumes.
Release The time it takes for an effect (such as compression) to return to normal after a peak.
Sound reinforcement A slight amplification to make a sound clearer without overdoing it.
HF receiver A box that picks up wireless signals, for cable-free microphones or lights.
Return A speaker so musicians can hear each other on stage, essential for a professional show.
Reverb An effect that makes the sound bounce around, like in a large room, for more atmosphere.
RCA A simple connector for plugging in audio devices, often used at home.
Balanced (connection) A professional three-wire connection for clear sound, even with long cables.
TRS A three-pin jack for high-quality stereo or balanced sound.
TRRS A four-pin jack, often used for headphones with a built-in microphone.
TS A single jack for mono sound, used for instruments such as guitars.
TWS A wireless connection between two audio devices for cable-free stereo sound.
Volt (V) The unit that measures electrical voltage, the power that feeds your equipment.
VU meter An indicator that shows the level of your sound, to prevent it from clipping.
Watt (W) The unit that measures the power of your amplifier or speaker, so you know if it's going to deliver!
XLR A professional connector for high-quality sound or signals, without interference.
XY A technique for capturing sound in stereo with two microphones, for an immersive atmosphere.