Recording Terminlogy - What does is all mean?

If you're just getting into creating your own recordings (or you're just interested), you've probably come across terms such as preamp, DAW, ADAT, SPDIF etc and are utterly lost. Here's a quick run down of all the terms we were confused with at the beginning.

Preamp
This is a component that amplifies the signal coming from a micrphone, it's basic purpose is to "turn up" the volume so you can hear it. If you were to plug a normal mic (e.g. an SM57) into an input which didn't have a preamp, you would only get a very weak signal which would be barely audible.

If someone asks you how many preamps your interface has got, it's a fairly safe bet to count the number of XLR connectors (but only the inputs) and use that number. For example, the RME Fireface 800 has 4 preamps and the MOTU 896HD has 8.

ADAT
This is a fibre optic connection that can record 8 channels of audio. It's typically used to extend the number of tracks available to record with on a unit.

DAW ( Digital Audio Workstation)
The PC or MAC that you use to record with (that was easy wasn't it).

TRS ( Tip Ring Sleeve)
This looks like a standard guitar jack, but has 2 rings (or stereo) instead of that usual one (Mono) on guitar leads.

Condenser Mic
A condenser mic (or room mic) can used to pick up sounds that are non-directional or a group of sounds * (i.e. in a practice room to record a band). They tend to pick up a lot of room noise and are ideal for using as drum over heads (i.e. to pick up cymbals and overall kit sound).

Dynamic Mic
A dynamic mic ( or Close Mic) is typically used for micing directional sound sources (such as guitar amps/stacks) *. They tend to pick up noise that is close to them and are ideal for vocal mics on stage.

* = You can actually use these mics for whatever you like, but this is meant to be a simple guide and it's best not to get too far into mic application at the moment ;)

Phantom Power (48V)
Phantom power is typically needed for "Condenser" mics (see above) tp provide the necessary power for them to pick up a signal. You will find that most room mics need phantom power(but not always so check your gear first).

XLR
This is a 3 pinned connector that is typically used to connect microphones to a mixing desk/interface. The advantages are that it's balanced (so resists interferance).