l
VU meters. The VU meters give the only visual
reference to sound loudness. As described
previously, the correct meter readings are
achieved” when average music and voice peaks
fall between 80 and 100 percent. Allowing the
meter to run constantly in the red, known as
running “hot:’ can create sound distortion and is
never acceptable.
SLIDERS
Sound sources connected to your audio console are
controlled by the use of pots, called sliders. The output
selected above the sliders gives you the option of
listening to the sound source in audition or program
mode. Program is used only when a sound source is
aired Audition allows you to listen to a sound source to
make sure it is properly cued and the appropriate sound
levels are set on the VU meter.
AUDIOTAPE CARTRIDGE AND
CARTRIDGE MACHINES
You will use audio tape cartridges and cartridge
machines for most of the spot announcements of your
station Cartridges come in various lengths, from 10
seconds to five and a half minutes. Inside the plastic
casing of the cartridge is a continuous tape loop that
provides sound immediately when played. Because the
tape must play through before it stops and recues itself
at the cue pulse, you should select a cartridge that is
slightly longer than the recorded material.
Before you air a spot announcement on cartridge,
perform the following steps:
1. Make sure the cartridge is properly seated in the
machine.
2. Set the output selector to audition.
3. Start the cartridge and set the output level (using
the appropriate slider) on the audition VU meter.
4. Allow the cartridge to play through until it
recues.
5. Once the cartridge recues, place the output
selector in the program mode. The spot announcement
on cartridge is now ready to air.
An audiotape cartridge and cartridge playback
machine are shown in figure 13-8.
CD PLAYER
You will use CD players for production purposes.
Commercially, the CD and CD player have replaced
records and turntables. This is because CDs are easier
to store and their sound quality is superior.
The CD is a 4 3/4-inch plastic platter that is scanned
by a laser beam positioned above the disc. Unlike
records, CDs do not skip and its 500th play will sound
as flawless as its first. However, you should handle a CD
only around its edges and store it in its protective case
(jewel box). A CD and CD player are shown in figure
13-9.
Figure 13-9.—Compact disc (CD) and CD player.
13-27
