Simple Explanation

A setup where the signal goes in a circle—back to where it started.

Concise Technical Definition

A closed electrical or signal path in which the output is routed back to the input, creating a continuous feedback or signal path.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like a race track where a car keeps going in circles—start and end are the same point.

Industry Usage Summary

In audio, "loop" can refer to effects loops, feedback circuits, or playback loops. Effects loops route a signal out of and back into an amplifier or processor, while improper grounding can form a ground loop, leading to hum.

Engineering Shortcut

Closed signal or current path; can be intentional (FX) or problematic (ground loop).

Full Technical Explanation

A loop in electrical and audio systems is a closed path through which current or a signal flows. In signal processing, loops are used to route audio out of a device (e.g., to an external effects unit) and then back in—this is known as an effects loop. In control systems, feedback loops help maintain system stability. In electrical circuits, a loop allows uninterrupted current flow, but when grounding paths form multiple loops, it can create ground loops, which introduce hum and noise. Loops are foundational in circuit design, signal routing, and audio processing applications.