Instruments and Effects

Glossary 649
VU meter Abbreviation for Volume Unit meter. An analog meter used to monitor audio
levels.
WAV, WAVE The primary audio file format used by Windows-compatible computers. In
Logic Pro, all recorded and bounced WAV files are in Broadcast Wave format, which
includes high-resolution timestamp information that stores positional information. This
makes it easy to align these files in other audio and video applications.
waveform A visual representation of an audio signal. Waveform graphics run from left
to right, and are centered on a horizontal line. Louder portions of the waveform
(amplitude peaks) are indicated as taller spikes or higher curves in the waveform.
wet/dry mix Refers to the ratio of a signal that effects have been added to (wet), and
the original, unprocessed signal (dry).
white noise Noise type that consists of all frequencies (an infinite number) sounding
simultaneously, at the same intensity, in a given frequency band. Its name is analogous
to white light, which consists of a mixture of all optical wavelengths (all rainbow
colors). Sonically, white noise falls between the sound of the consonant F and breaking
waves (surf). Synthesis of wind and seashore noises, or electronic snare drum sounds,
requires the use of white noise.
window type Status of the window as a float window or a normal window. Float
windows always float in the foreground and can not be hidden by normal windows.
Also see float window.
Word Clock Clock signal required by digital audio interfaces to ensure the sampling
rates of connected devices run synchronously. When two devices are connected via a
standard digital audio interface (such as S/P-DIF or ADAT optical), Word Clock is
transmitted via the audio circuit. If you want more than two digital audio devices to
communicate with each other, you will need to use separate Word Clock ports for
synchronization, in most cases.
word length See bit depth.
XG Extended General MIDI standard from Yamaha, compatible with Roland GS.
zero crossing A point in an audio file where the waveform crosses the zero amplitude
axis. If you cut an audio file at a zero crossing there will be no click at the cut point.
zoom An action that enlarges (zooms in on) or shrinks (zooms out from) the display in
a window.
zoom level The amount that window contents are magnified. Zooming in to a high
level allows you to make more precise edits. Conversely, you can zoom all the way out
to see the entire project and work on very large sections.