Simple Explanation

An electrical representation of sound, such as the waveform or impulse that carries audio information.

Concise Technical Definition

A signal is an electrical impulse or representation of an audio event. It carries information about the sound, often in the form of a voltage or current variation that corresponds to the audio event being recorded or transmitted. Signals are the foundation of all audio processing and transmission, whether they are being captured by a microphone, processed by a mixing console, or amplified and played through speakers.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Think of a signal like the electric version of sound—it’s like how a wire carries electricity to power a lightbulb. In audio, the signal carries the sound’s information, making it possible for speakers to reproduce the sound we hear.

Industry Usage Summary

In audio systems, a signal refers to the electrical representation of sound that is passed through various components—microphones, mixers, amplifiers, and speakers—allowing for the recording, processing, and playback of sound. Signals are fundamental in both professional and consumer audio equipment, and their strength and clarity are crucial for high-quality sound reproduction. Signal integrity is often preserved through proper routing, shielding, and amplification to ensure minimal noise or distortion.

Engineering Shortcut

An electrical impulse or waveform that carries audio information.

Full Technical Explanation

A signal is the electrical representation of an audio event, typically in the form of a voltage or current variation. It serves as the means by which audio information is transmitted, processed, and reproduced. Signals can take many forms depending on the stage of the audio chain—whether it’s the electrical impulse generated by a microphone to capture sound, the line-level signal passing through a mixer, or the amplified signal driving a speaker. Signals are central to all audio systems, and their quality directly impacts the overall sound reproduction. Signals can be analog or digital, with different techniques and technologies used to maintain or modify them throughout the audio production process.