Glossary
We're here to help, that's why we've made this glossary of terms used about audio gear. If there's something you'd like clarifying, please give us a shout and we'll be glad to assist!
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Active Speaker
An active speaker is one that houses it's own amplifier and can be connected directly to an audio source. We would normally suggest that this is a mixer to maintain full control over the speaker system. Check out our range of Active PA Speakers
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DVS
A DVS (Digital Vinyl System) is a combination of hardware and software that allows a conventional DJ setup (decks & mixer) to control the playback of digital music files from a computer. These systems normally consist of a soundcard, time-code media (vinyl/CDs) and software. The software is able to listen to the speed at which the time code media is playing via the soundcard and mimics this during playback of a digital music file. Find out more here!
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Jack/TRS
Jack plugs (sometimes referred to as TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) plugs) are used for a whole variety of audio applications. The two main aspects to be aware of when using jack leads are: (a) is it balanced/unbalanced/mono/stereo connection and (b) is it signal or high power that is to be transmitted. The former denotes how many bands the jack plug should have (stereo & balanced have 3, mono & unbalanced have 2) and the latter is important when deciding on the gauge of cable to be used (higher power = thicker cable). Take a look at our cables here
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LED
LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are the successors to traditional halogen lamps. They normally have a service life of 10,000+ hours, stay relatively cool (compared to a halogen lamp) and are less susceptible to knocks and bumps. Lighting effects usually consist of several banks of LEDs of different colours or one cluster of white LEDs that are used in conjunction with a colour/gobo wheel. You can view our range in the Lighting Section
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MIDI
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) was originally used to control multiple bulky synthesisers using a single keyboard. No audio signal is transmitted via MIDI, just a set of instructions. This has meant that, in recent years, MIDI has been the method of choice for DJs and Producers to control software and hardware in ever more imaginitive ways using a variety of keyboards/interfaces. Check out our MIDI Controllers section to take a look!
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Monitor Speaker
Monitor speakers tend to be used in one of two ways - either in a studio as a way of previewing tracks/mixes or, in live applications, as a way to keep performers in sync. Studio monitors tend to be very high quality speakers with a flat resopnse across their frequency range whilst monitors used in live applications tend to be dedicated PA speakers. Check ours out in the Monitor & Studio Speakers section
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Passive Speaker
A passive speaker requires an amplifier to run. This is because the audio signal is too weak to move the speaker drivers without additional amplification. Take a look at our Passive PA Speakers
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Phono/RCA
RCA (Radio Corporation of America) connectors (sometimes referred to as phono connectors) are predominantly used for transmitting unbalanced audio signals over shorter distances. Most of our audio products have RCA connections (CD players, mixers etc). Other uses include S/PDIF (digital audio), composite and component video transmission. You can view our range of signal leads here
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Smoke Effects
Smoke effects are usually generated using a smoke machine (sometimes called a fogger) and smoke/fog fluid. The fluid is sprayed over a hot element which converts it into a large cloud of smoke. This style of effect is widely used in nightclubs to douse the crowd and to create thick beams of light. We've got a wide variety of machines on offer here
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Speakon
Speakon connectors are the current standard used on most loudspeaker cabinets and amplifiers. They use a twist and lock design to ensure a secure connection and can be attached to the end of a cable without the need for any soldering! We recommend the use of Speakon connectors over Jack plugs in higher power applications. Take a look at our Speaker Leads to find out more!
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XLR
XLR (sometimes called Cannon connectors) are multi pin plugs and sockets used for sound and lighting applications (usually signal, not power). An evolution of the Cannon X connector, XLR sockets have a latch to secure the connection and insulated pins - Cannon X, L(Latch), R (Insulated). Most XLR connectors are 3 pin, microphones for example. Some lighting systems use 5 pins. You can find our range of XLR cables in our Leads & Adaptors section
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![Native Instruments Traktor Time Encoded Control Vinyl [White] Mk1](tn_TRAKCONTROLMEDIA.jpg)