Simple Explanation

A device that continuously analyzes the frequency spectrum of an audio signal in real-time, typically with constant percentage bandwidth.

Concise Technical Definition

A Real-Time Analyzer (RTA) is a type of spectrum analyzer that provides a real-time display of an audio signal’s frequency spectrum. It uses constant percentage bandwidth to break the signal into frequency bands, allowing users to analyze the levels of different frequencies in the signal as they occur. RTAs are commonly used in live sound, recording, and sound system tuning applications.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Think of it like a "live" graphic equalizer that shows the energy at each frequency in real-time. It breaks down the audio into different frequency ranges and displays the levels of each range, letting you see exactly how the sound is distributed across the spectrum as it plays.

Industry Usage Summary

RTAs are widely used in live sound reinforcement, recording, and audio system tuning to provide a visual representation of the frequency spectrum. They allow sound engineers to adjust sound systems in real-time for optimal sound quality, by analyzing how different frequencies are behaving in a space. They can help identify issues like unwanted resonances, imbalance in frequency response, or areas where the sound system may need adjustments, especially in live performance and event settings.

Engineering Shortcut

A spectrum analyzer that displays the frequency content of a signal in real-time with constant percentage bandwidth.

Full Technical Explanation

A Real-Time Analyzer (RTA) is a type of spectrum analyzer that allows for real-time monitoring of an audio signal's frequency spectrum. Unlike traditional spectrum analyzers that analyze the signal in discrete time intervals, an RTA provides continuous analysis, often using constant percentage bandwidth to divide the spectrum into frequency bands. This allows sound engineers and technicians to visualize and adjust the audio signal in real-time, which is especially useful in live sound environments, recording studios, and audio system calibration. The RTA can quickly identify and correct issues with the frequency balance, providing immediate feedback to optimize sound quality during a performance or recording session.