Learn AV, LED, LCD, OLED and digital signage terminology — explained simply.
Projector tech using 3 LCD panels (R,G,B). Better color brightness than DLP, no rainbow effect.
avTraditional audio console. Simpler, cheaper, but no recall or digital processing.
avDMX over Ethernet protocol. Allows thousands of DMX universes over standard network cables.
avBright audience-facing light for dramatic effect. Momentarily blinds audience — hence the name.
avMic requiring phantom power (+48V). More sensitive, captures more detail. For studio/stage use.
avAdditional speakers placed further back in large venues. Signal is delayed to sync with main PA.
avDirect Injection — converts unbalanced instrument signal to balanced XLR for mixing console.
avAudio console with built-in processing (EQ, compression, effects). Controllable via tablet.
avDigital Light Processing — projector tech using microscopic mirrors. Sharper than LCD, but rainbow effect possible.
avDigital Multiplex — standard protocol for controlling stage lighting. Each light gets address 1–512.
avDigital Multiplex — standard protocol for controlling stage lighting. Each fixture gets address 1-512.
avMic not requiring power. Rugged, handles high SPL. Standard for live vocals and instruments.
avTechnique where multiple projectors overlap edges for one seamless ultra-wide image.
avHigh-pitched squeal when mic picks up its own sound from speakers. Fixed with EQ or mic positioning.
avProduces thick white fog. Used for dramatic entrances, film effects. Leaves residue unlike haze.
avFront of House — mixing position in audience area where sound engineer controls the main PA mix.
avFront of House — the mixing position in the audience area. Where sound engineer controls the main mix.
avMetal or glass stencil inside a spotlight projecting pattern/logo. Custom gobos made from client artwork.
avStencil inside a spotlight that projects a pattern/logo. Used in moving head spots.
avProduces fine mist making light beams visible. Essential for concert/club lighting. Different from fog.
avProduces fine mist making light beams visible. Essential for concert lighting. Different from fog machine.
avWireless earpiece for performers. Replaces stage monitors — cleaner sound, less stage volume.
avProjector image correction for angled projection. Digital = quality loss, Lens shift = better.
avFixes trapezoid distortion when projector is angled. Digital = quality loss, Lens shift = better.
avUses laser diodes as light source. 20,000h life, instant on/off, better colors. Replacing lamp projectors.
avFixed wash light using LEDs. No moving parts — reliable and affordable workhorse.
avPhysical lens adjustment moving image without moving projector. No quality loss vs digital keystone.
avControl desk for programming and playing back lighting cues. GrandMA, Avolites, Chamsys are major brands.
avStacked speakers creating cylindrical wave — longer throw, even coverage. Used in concerts.
avStacked speakers creating cylindrical sound wave. Longer throw, even coverage. Standard for concerts.
avStandard measure of projector brightness. 3000-5000 = meeting room, 10000+ = large venue/stadium.
avFloor speaker facing performers so they can hear themselves. Typically 12" or 15".
avSeparate mixing position side-stage for monitor mixes. Separate engineer for performers sound.
avMotorized light with very narrow intense beam. For aerial effects, sky tracking.
avMotorized light with sharp beam, gobos, color wheels. Precise positioning via DMX.
avMotorized light with wide coverage, color mixing (CMY/RGB). For washing large areas with color.
av+48V DC power sent through XLR cable to power condenser microphones and active DI boxes.
avProjects large image from very close (0.5-1.5m). Ideal for small rooms, avoids shadows.
avRapid flash light (1-25 flashes/sec). Creates stop-motion effect. Safety warning: epilepsy risk.
avSpeaker for low frequencies (20-120Hz). Provides bass, kick drum impact. Active or passive.
avSpeaker for low frequencies (20–120Hz). Provides bass, kick drum feel.
avProjector specification: distance ÷ image width. 0.5=short throw, 2.0=long throw.
avProjector spec: distance ÷ image width. 0.5=short throw, 2.0=long throw. Determines placement.
avMetal framework for hanging lights, speakers, LED screens. Box or triangular profile.
avProjects from 10-50cm away. Sits right below/above screen. No shadows at all.
avMic with radio transmitter. UHF band most common. Frequencies must be coordinated to avoid interference.
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