DAW = Digital Audio Workstation. It describes the modern environment where music is produced today, i. e. a computer (Mac or PC) with dedicated software, such as Pro Tools, Logic, Studio One, Cubase, Reaper, etc.

PLUG-INS are software add-ons (plugged into the main software) and add great value and functionality to the basic software. Plug-Ins are used for Eging, compression, reverb, saturation and other effects, as well as for software instruments.

MICROPHONES are used to convert an acoustic signal into electric waveforms. Each microphone consists of a capsule (membrane plus inductor) plus some electronic parts, to do the job. The electric signal is very poor and needs to be amplified.

PREAMPS are preamplifiers that enhance the level of a signal, so it matches the qualities to be further manipulated during the production process. Preamps can be used for microphones or instruments and offer all the necessary options to adjust to the signal source.

COMPRESSORS reduce the dynamics of a signal. A louder signal is usually reduced, while a softer signal will be enhanced. The result is a more constant signal that can be better used in a production. Today, most of the signals are compressed in various ways, from subtle touches to heavily squashed compressions, depending on the needs or taste. A brick wall-limiter is a compressor with a certain top limit, where signals can't get louder anymore at all.

EQ = Equalizer (amer.) or Equaliser (brit.). An EQ enhances or reduced certain frequencies of a sound signal. Sources that sound dull or harsh can be balanced that way to create a more pleasing sound.

DELAYS are used as effects to «glue» instruments together in a mix or to create three-dimensional results. Delays are echoes (repetitions) of an original source, that usually grow weaker over time until they completely fade out. Most delay effects can be greatly manipulated (number of echoes, panorama position, modulation etc.)

REVERBS are multiple delays. Every room produces echoes - and the echoes even produce more delay, until the number of echoes is so dense, one can't tell the single echoes anymore. Reverbs are an essential tool in the music world to add space and sparkle to any mix.

CHORUS / FLANGER / PHASER are modulation effects, that modulate the signal in various ways: They slightly change the pitch (tuning) and / or the timing (short delay) of a signal and add it to the original source. This creates a certain «double effect» that enhances the signal and makes it «thicker». This effect is often used for vocals, guitars and electric pianos.