Ultimate Quiz On Music Engineering: Trivia!
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People think that playing an instrument is the hardest part of releasing a music album. Well, they are dead wrong. Recording music and releasing it are often ignored perspectives on music creation. The following quiz will teach you the sophistication and depth of recording music and engineering the environment in which the music is created. The experts of this can use this for refreshing their knowledge. Good Luck!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What is a 'glass master'?
- A.
An award when you exceed sales of 100,000 albums
- B.
The device used to inspect the grooves on a lacquer master
- C.
It is used as the first step in vinyl mastering
- D.
A master disc from which the mother then stampers are made in
Correct Answer
D. A master disc from which the mother then stampers are made inExplanation
A 'glass master' is a master disc that is used to create the mother and stampers in vinyl production. The glass master is the initial step in the vinyl mastering process and serves as the template for creating multiple copies of the record. The mother and stampers are used to press the vinyl records, making the glass master a crucial component in the manufacturing process.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is the sampling rate standard for compact disc mastering?
- A.
48 kHz
- B.
44.1 kHz
- C.
44.036 kHz
- D.
20 kHz
Correct Answer
B. 44.1 kHzExplanation
The correct answer is 44.1 kHz. This is the standard sampling rate for compact disc mastering. It is the frequency at which the audio signal is sampled per second to convert it into a digital format. This sampling rate is specifically used for audio CDs to ensure high-quality sound reproduction.Rate this question:
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- 3.
This contains Table of contents, artist information, producer information, date, copy protection, start and end times, song length, pause time, etc.
- A.
PW Code
- B.
UPC Code
- C.
Original Master
- D.
PQ Code
- E.
Index
Correct Answer
D. PQ CodeExplanation
The PQ Code refers to the Pre-Gap and Post-Gap information on a CD. It contains data about the start and end times, song length, pause time, and other details such as Table of Contents, artist information, producer information, date, and copy protection. The PQ Code is essential for accurately reading and playing the audio tracks on a CD.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What does PMCD stand for?
- A.
PQ Mastered CD
- B.
Post Mastered CD
- C.
Pre Mastered CD
- D.
Post Mortum CD
Correct Answer
C. Pre Mastered CDExplanation
PMCD stands for Pre Mastered CD. This refers to a version of a CD that is created before the final mastering process. Pre mastering involves adjusting the audio levels, adding fades and crossfades, and organizing the tracks. Once the pre mastering is complete, the CD can then be sent for final mastering, where the audio is optimized for playback on different devices and formats.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Red Book CDs are capable of storing how many minutes of audio?
- A.
12 minutes
- B.
60 minutes
- C.
100 minutes
- D.
74 minutes
Correct Answer
D. 74 minutesExplanation
Red Book CDs are a standard format for audio CDs. They have a maximum capacity of 74 minutes of audio. This is because the CD is designed to hold a certain amount of data, and audio files take up a specific amount of space on the CD. Therefore, the correct answer is 74 minutes.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Multi-Band Compression:
- A.
Allows you to adjust the width of the stereo field
- B.
Allows you to independantly compress different frequency ranges on a single audio signal
- C.
Not often used in mastering
- D.
Does not increase (loudness)
Correct Answer
B. Allows you to independantly compress different frequency ranges on a single audio signalExplanation
Multi-band compression is a technique that enables you to compress different frequency ranges independently on a single audio signal. This means that you can apply different amounts of compression to different parts of the audio spectrum, allowing for more precise control over the dynamics of the signal. This can be particularly useful in situations where certain frequency ranges need more or less compression than others. It is worth noting that multi-band compression is not commonly used in the mastering process, as it can introduce phase and timing issues if not applied carefully. Additionally, it is important to note that multi-band compression does not inherently increase the overall loudness of the audio signal.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Using this kind of processor allows you to independently process the mono and side signals of a file.
- A.
Paragraphic eq
- B.
Multiband Shuffler
- C.
Multiband Compressor
- D.
MS Matrix (sum and difference)
Correct Answer
D. MS Matrix (sum and difference)Explanation
The MS Matrix (sum and difference) processor allows you to independently process the mono and side signals of a file. It achieves this by summing the left and right channels to create the mono signal and subtracting the left channel from the right channel to create the side signal. This allows for precise control over the stereo image and allows for adjustments to be made separately to the mono and side signals.Rate this question:
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- 8.
DSD
- A.
Stands for 'difference-side-difference' processing
- B.
Is not used in audio
- C.
Is how digital audio is encoded for DVDs
- D.
Stands for 'direct stream digital' and is how digital audio is encoded for SACD
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. Stands for 'direct stream digital' and is how digital audio is encoded for SACD -
- 9.
A limiter is used in mastering to:
- A.
Increase the peak-to-average ratio
- B.
To make a track sound punchier and clearer
- C.
To remove clicks and pops
- D.
To control the peak signals, thus allowing the overall level to be increased
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. To control the peak signals, thus allowing the overall level to be increasedExplanation
A limiter is a tool used in mastering to control the peak signals in a track. It works by setting a maximum output level, preventing any signals from exceeding that level. By doing so, the limiter allows the overall level of the track to be increased without causing distortion or clipping. This helps to achieve a more balanced and louder sound. The other options mentioned, such as increasing the peak-to-average ratio, making the track sound punchier and clearer, or removing clicks and pops, are not the primary functions of a limiter in mastering.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What is a good listening level when mastering?
- A.
95 dB SPL
- B.
60 dB SPL
- C.
120 dB SPL
- D.
83-85 dB SPL
- E.
Whatever level feels right
Correct Answer
D. 83-85 dB SPLExplanation
A good listening level when mastering is typically around 83-85 dB SPL. This level allows for accurate and balanced monitoring of the audio without causing excessive fatigue or potential damage to the ears. It is important to maintain a consistent listening level during the mastering process to ensure that the final mix translates well across different playback systems.Rate this question:
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- 11.
PCM is the digital audio encoding method used on:
- A.
Pro Tools
- B.
Red Book CDs
- C.
DVD-A
- D.
Logic
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is a digital audio encoding method that is used on various platforms including Pro Tools, Red Book CDs, DVD-A, and Logic. PCM converts analog audio signals into digital form by sampling the amplitude of the signal at regular intervals. This method ensures accurate representation of the original audio signal and is widely used in the audio industry. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" as PCM is used on all the mentioned platforms.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Limiters in mastering are usually set to have a:
- A.
Fast attack and slow release
- B.
Slow attack and fast release
- C.
Slow attack and slow release
- D.
Fast attack and fast release
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. Fast attack and fast releaseExplanation
In mastering, limiters are typically set to have a fast attack and fast release. This means that the limiter reacts quickly to the incoming audio signal and applies compression immediately, and it also releases the compression quickly once the signal level drops below the threshold. This setting helps to control the dynamic range of the audio and prevent any sudden peaks or spikes in volume. A fast attack and release time can result in a more transparent and natural sound, while still providing the necessary level of compression.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Peaks shorter than about 10ms can usually be limited up to 6dB without an audible penalty.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Peaks shorter than about 10ms can usually be limited up to 6dB without an audible penalty because our auditory system is less sensitive to very short-duration sounds. By limiting these peaks, we can control the dynamic range of the audio signal and prevent clipping or distortion without significantly affecting the perceived quality of the sound.Rate this question:
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- 14.
When material seems to lack punch or strength, consider:
- A.
EQing
- B.
Compressing
- C.
Expanding
- D.
Limiting
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. CompressingExplanation
When material seems to lack punch or strength, one possible solution is to use compression. Compression is an audio processing technique that reduces the dynamic range of a signal, making the quiet parts louder and the loud parts softer. By applying compression, the weaker elements of the material can be boosted, resulting in a more balanced and impactful sound. This can help to add punch and strength to the material. EQing, expanding, limiting, or doing none of the above would not directly address the issue of lack of punch or strength.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Why is it important to balance the perceived levels from track to track in CD mastering?
- A.
So that there is a consistent flow from track to track.
- B.
So the lister does not have to adjust their volume from track to track
- C.
So that one track does not sound "small" by comparison to the previous track.
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Balancing the perceived levels from track to track in CD mastering is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures a consistent flow from track to track, creating a seamless listening experience. Secondly, it eliminates the need for the listener to constantly adjust the volume from track to track, providing convenience and ease of listening. Lastly, it prevents one track from sounding inferior or "small" in comparison to the previous track, maintaining a sense of coherence and quality throughout the CD. Therefore, all of the above reasons emphasize the importance of balancing perceived levels in CD mastering.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The 3 "tiers" of mastering are Professional, Indie Professional, and Demo Quality.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because it states that there are three tiers of mastering: Professional, Indie Professional, and Demo Quality. This implies that mastering can be categorized into these three levels based on the quality and professionalism of the final product.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is the mastering engineer's most important "tool"?
- A.
EQ
- B.
Compressor
- C.
Monitors
- D.
Ears
Correct Answer
D. EarsExplanation
The mastering engineer's most important "tool" is their ears. This is because the primary goal of a mastering engineer is to ensure that the final mix sounds balanced, cohesive, and pleasing to the listener. They rely on their ears to accurately perceive and evaluate the various elements of the mix, such as tonal balance, dynamics, stereo imaging, and overall clarity. By using their well-trained ears, mastering engineers can make informed decisions and apply the necessary adjustments to enhance the audio quality and achieve the desired sonic result.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Pro Tools meets all of the criteria necessary for a professional mastering DAW.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Pro Tools does not meet all of the criteria necessary for a professional mastering DAW. While Pro Tools is a widely used and highly regarded digital audio workstation (DAW), it is primarily known for its capabilities in recording, editing, and mixing music. However, when it comes to mastering, Pro Tools may not have all the specialized tools and features that are typically required in a professional mastering DAW. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Adding more compression helps increase dynamic range.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Adding more compression actually decreases dynamic range, not increases it. Compression is a technique used in audio production to reduce the difference between the loudest and softest parts of a sound. By applying compression, the dynamic range is reduced, making the quieter parts louder and the louder parts quieter. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Intensity is a...
- A.
Objective term used to describe SPL
- B.
Subjective term used to describe SPL
- C.
Objective term used to describe loudness
- D.
Subjective term used to describe loudness
Correct Answer
A. Objective term used to describe SPLExplanation
Intensity is an objective term used to describe Sound Pressure Level (SPL). SPL is a measure of the pressure of sound waves and is expressed in decibels (dB). Intensity refers to the physical characteristics of sound, specifically the amount of energy that is being transmitted per unit of time and per unit of area. It can be measured and quantified using scientific instruments. Therefore, intensity is an objective term used to describe SPL, which is a measurable and quantifiable characteristic of sound.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which term is used to describe the relationship between Peak and Average Levels?
- A.
Dynamic Range
- B.
Crest Factor
- C.
RMS
- D.
VU
Correct Answer
C. RMSExplanation
RMS (Root Mean Square) is the term used to describe the relationship between Peak and Average Levels. RMS is a mathematical calculation that represents the square root of the average of the squared values of a waveform. It provides a more accurate measure of the overall level of a signal compared to the peak or average levels alone. RMS takes into account both the amplitude and duration of the signal, making it a useful measurement in audio and electrical engineering.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Re: subjective terms for describing a recording - It is easier to perceive "excess" than "absence"
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement suggests that it is easier for individuals to notice when something is in excess rather than when something is absent in a recording. This could be because our attention is naturally drawn to things that stand out or are more noticeable, rather than things that are lacking or missing. Therefore, it is more likely for people to perceive and identify excessive elements in a recording compared to elements that are absent.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Why is a Mastering Engineer's job best described as pre-mastering?
- A.
"Mastering" is done at the manufacturing plant.
- B.
They not only master, but also pre-master.
- C.
Pre-mastering is just a more professional term
- D.
They are also mixing engineer's
Correct Answer
A. "Mastering" is done at the manufacturing plant.Explanation
The answer states that "Mastering" is done at the manufacturing plant. This implies that the job of a Mastering Engineer is best described as pre-mastering because they are responsible for preparing the audio tracks before they are sent to the manufacturing plant for the final mastering process.Rate this question:
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- 24.
AIF and WAV are PCM Audio formats.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
AIF and WAV are both audio file formats that use PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) encoding. PCM is a digital representation of analog audio signals, where the amplitude of the signal is sampled at regular intervals and converted into binary data. AIF (Audio Interchange File Format) and WAV (Waveform Audio File Format) are commonly used for storing uncompressed audio files, and both support PCM encoding. Therefore, the statement that AIF and WAV are PCM audio formats is true.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which file format is not "full-quality"?
- A.
WAV
- B.
AIF
- C.
DSD
- D.
AAC
Correct Answer
D. AACExplanation
AAC is the file format that is not "full-quality". AAC stands for Advanced Audio Coding and is a lossy compression format, meaning it reduces the file size by discarding some of the audio data. This compression results in a loss of audio quality compared to the original uncompressed file formats like WAV, AIF, and DSD, which are considered "full-quality".Rate this question:
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- 26.
It is possible for a DAC to record signals that exceed 0 dBFS.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) converts digital signals into analog signals. The dBFS (decibels relative to Full Scale) is a measurement of the signal level in relation to the maximum possible level. A signal that exceeds 0 dBFS means it is above the maximum level that the DAC can handle, causing distortion or clipping. Therefore, it is not possible for a DAC to record signals that exceed 0 dBFS.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Why is POW-r Dither different than standard dither?
- A.
Created by industry standard consortium
- B.
Psycho-acoustically optimized
- C.
Specifies 3 "flavors" with easy to understand guidelines for usage
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
POW-r Dither is different from standard dither because it is created by an industry standard consortium, it is psycho-acoustically optimized, and it specifies 3 "flavors" with easy to understand guidelines for usage.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What does bandwidth limiting mean?
- A.
Compressing for online streaming
- B.
Compressing individual bandwidths
- C.
Limiting the range of the frequency bandwidth
- D.
Limiting the output level of a signal
- E.
Giving the band less creative freedom
Correct Answer
C. Limiting the range of the frequency bandwidthExplanation
Bandwidth limiting refers to the process of restricting the range of frequencies that can pass through a communication channel or network. This is done to prevent excessive data usage and ensure efficient transmission of signals. By limiting the frequency bandwidth, the amount of data that can be transmitted or received is controlled, which helps in managing network congestion and optimizing data transfer.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Why can working with near-field monitors in mastering be problematic?
- A.
They may have hype in certain areas of the bandwidth to compensate for acoustic inconsistencies
- B.
They may not truly represent the full compression of a signal
- C.
They cannot always reproduce the full bandwidth
- D.
Insufficient bass response
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
Working with near-field monitors in mastering can be problematic for several reasons. Firstly, they may have hype in certain areas of the bandwidth to compensate for acoustic inconsistencies, which can lead to an inaccurate representation of the audio. Secondly, they may not truly represent the full compression of a signal, resulting in a lack of accuracy in the mastering process. Additionally, near-field monitors cannot always reproduce the full bandwidth, which can lead to an incomplete representation of the audio. Lastly, insufficient bass response can be a limitation of near-field monitors, affecting the overall balance and accuracy of the mastering process.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Monitoring too loud whilst mastering can leave material lacking low end.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Monitoring too loud while mastering can cause the material to lack low end. This is because when the volume is turned up too high, our ears perceive the low frequencies differently, leading to a loss of balance in the mix. This can result in the low end being underrepresented in the final mastered version of the audio. Therefore, it is important to monitor at appropriate levels to ensure a balanced and accurate representation of the low end in the mastered material.Rate this question:
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Apr 26, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 14, 2011Quiz Created by
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