Music Technology and Production
This domain tests MIDI, audio, signal flow, levels, microphones, effects and mixing. You need to explain what each tool does and choose sensible settings, not just name software. Keep answers practical and signal-based.
MIDI and audio
MIDI is performance data: note number, velocity, timing and controller messages. Audio is recorded sound. A MIDI track can change instrument; audio cannot without processing. A DAW records, edits, mixes and exports. Use a click track when timing must be tight.
Levels and signal flow
Source to preamp or interface to DAW to monitors. Set gain so peaks sit around -12 to -6 dBFS; avoid clipping at 0 dBFS. Sample rate is samples per second, such as 44.1 or 48 kHz. Bit depth is dynamic resolution, such as 16- or 24-bit; 24-bit gives more headroom and a lower noise floor.
Effects and mixing
EQ shapes frequency balance; compression reduces dynamic range; reverb adds space; delay repeats. A high-pass filter removes rumble. Pan backing instruments; keep bass and lead centred. Mix in mono occasionally to check compatibility.
Worked example
A vocal sounds dull and quiet. Chain: high-pass at 80 Hz, gentle boost at 2-5 kHz for presence, compressor at 3:1 with 3-6 dB gain reduction, then a reverb send. Set the fader so the vocal sits above the backing. Reason: EQ before compression avoids boosting rumble, and compression controls peaks so the vocal stays audible.
Traps
Do not record too hot for a loud mix. Do not confuse sample rate with bit depth. Do not use reverb to fix tuning. Check mono compatibility and avoid clipping on the master.