Yamaha MT4X - Manual (Page 54)

Appendix 52
User’s Guide
recording. The signal is expanded and then de-emphasized on playback. The MT4X uses dbx™
noise reduction to reduce noise and keep your recordings clean and crisp.
Demagnetizer
A hand-held device that removes the residual magnetic field that routinely builds up on a recording
head. Without demagnetizing (also called degaussing), this residual magnetic field can cause
distortion. Use of a demagnetizer is an integral part of maintaining any tape recorder.
Equalization (EQ)
The process of adjusting (boosting or cutting) the frequency ranges for optimal sound. Many
engineers try to record with flat equalization, only adjusting the frequencies on mixdown.
Fader
Each channel module contains a fader, a slider that is used to adjust the level of that channel relative
to the other channels. The MASTER module fader is used to adjust the overall stereo level.
FSK (Frequency Shift Keying)
A method of recording MIDI clock data onto one of the tracks of the MT4X. A device translates the
data into two distinct frequencies that represent the two binary states: “on” and “off”. Some MIDI
instruments can directly output FSK sync signals. Otherwise, you will need a MIDI/FSK converter
such as the Yamaha YMC10.
GAIN
Various musical instruments and devices output different levels of signal. Gain is a measure of
electronic input over output. Each channel module includes a GAIN control that can alter the input
levels to compensate for line, instrument, or microphone levels.
Head
A transducer used to convert electrical impulses into patterns of magnetism during recording and
to convert patterns of magnetism into electrical impulses during playback. The MT4X uses a special
4-track permalloy record/playback head.
Instrument level
The level of gain output by such devices as an electric bass or guitar.
Line level
The level of gain output by such devices as a synthesizer, drum machine, CD player, etc.
Master recorder
A second tape recorder used during the mixdown process. The master recorder can be any two-
track stereo recorder, such as a stereo cassette, reel-to-reel, or DAT recorder.
MIC/LINE input
Each channel module includes a MIC/LINE input to connect a microphone, musical instrument, or
electronic device for recording.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface)
A digital data format standardized to ensure communication compatibility between electronic
musical instruments from different manufacturers. MIDI allows you to control multiple instruments
from one keyboard.
Mixdown
Usually the final process in a multitrack recording where you combine the previously recorded
tracks (often four), plus any effects or signal processing, into a stereo mix.
Module
The MT4X includes four channel modules. Each module consists of an input section (input select
key and GAIN control), an equalization section (HIGH, MID, and LOW controls), an auxiliary
section, a routing section (ASSIGN keys and PAN control), and a fader.