FLANGING Meaning and
Definition
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Flanging is an audio effect technique used in music production and recording that alters the sound signal by creating spectral modifications through the manipulation of time delay. It is typically produced by duplicating and delaying an audio signal, varying the delay time over time, and then merging it back with the original signal. This process results in a periodic sweeping effect characterized by a distinct and swirling sound.
The name "flanging" is derived from the use of mechanical tape-based systems, where the operator would place their finger on the flange of the tape reel to momentarily slow it down and create the desired effect. In modern digital audio workstations, this effect can be achieved using digital algorithms that replicate the original tape-flanging technique.
Flanging produces a recognizable sound by introducing comb filtering, which occurs when two identical audio signals are combined but with one signal slightly time-shifted. This time-shift creates a series of constructive and destructive interference patterns, resulting in a series of notches and peaks in the frequency spectrum.
The main parameters to control while applying flanging are the feedback amount, delay time, and modulation speed. Modulating the delay time creates a sweeping effect, while manipulating the feedback amount controls the intensity and resonance of the effect. The modulation speed determines the rate at which the delay time changes over time and ultimately affects the speed of the sweeping effect.
Overall, flanging is a creative audio effect that can add depth, movement, and a distinctive character to a sound source, making it a popular tool in music production, particularly in genres like rock, pop, and electronic music.
Common Misspellings for FLANGING
Etymology of FLANGING
The term "flanging" originated from the world of audio processing and music production. Its etymology can be traced back to the techniques used in early recordings.
In the early days of sound recording, the majority of audio recordings were made on magnetic tape. To create unique sound effects and manipulate the recorded sound, engineers would physically manipulate the tape. One technique involved taking two identical recordings and playing them back simultaneously on two tape machines. By applying pressure to the flange of one of the tape reels, a small delay or phase shift was introduced.
This pressure would create the distinctive sweeping or whooshing sound effect known as "flanging". The result was a unique audio effect with a characteristic "swoosh" sound. The term "flanging" comes from the action of pressing against the flange, which is the rim or edge of the tape reel, during the recording process.
Similar spelling words for FLANGING
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