Digital Technology (1970s-Present)

  • Sampling Theory: Nyquist-Shannon theorem, aliasing, discrete time signals
  • Quantization: Bit depth, dynamic range, dithering
  • A/D Conversion: Sampling, anti-aliasing filters, converter architectures
  • D/A Conversion: Reconstruction, anti-imaging filters, clock jitter
  • PCM Digital Formats: CD, DAT, ADAT, DASH standards
  • Early Digital Storage: Hard disk recording, sampling technologies
  • Digital Signal Processing Basics: Fundamental DSP operations
  • Digital Filtering: FIR, IIR filter implementations
  • Finite Word Length Effects: Truncation, rounding, overflow
  • Early Digital Effects: First digital reverbs, delays, multifx
  • Digital Mixing Consoles: First generation hybrid and digital desks
  • Synchronization: Word clock, sync protocols, timecode
  • Digital Interfaces: AES/EBU, S/PDIF, MADI, early digital standards
  • Sample Rate Conversion: Interpolation and decimation
  • Digital Recording Chain: Clocking, jitter, data integrity
  • Tape-Based Digital: DASH, ProDigi, ADAT, DA-88 formats
  • Digital Production Techniques: Early digital editing workflows
  • Early Network Audio: Initial attempts at digital audio networking
  • Digital Restoration Beginnings: First digital noise reduction systems
  • Error Correction: Principles and implementation in digital audio
  • Early Digital Broadcasting: Development of digital transmission standards

10. Modern Digital Audio Workstations (1990s-Present)

  • Computer-Based Recording: Evolution of DAW software and hardware
  • Non-Destructive Editing: Virtual editing paradigms
  • Plugin Architecture: VST, AU, AAX, RTAS frameworks
  • Virtual Instruments: Samplers, synthesizers, modeled instruments
  • MIDI Integration: Control, sequencing, virtual instruments
  • Digital Mixing Paradigms: Screen-based mixing approaches
  • Advanced DSP Algorithms: Modern processing techniques
  • Automated Mixing Tools: Dynamic EQ, multiband processing
  • Spectral Processing: FFT-based editing and manipulation
  • Digital Signal Routing: Busses, sends, returns in DAW environments
  • Project Management: Session organization, backup, archiving
  • Hybrid Workflows: Integrating analog hardware with digital systems
  • Control Surfaces: Hardware interfaces for DAW control
  • Cloud Collaboration: Remote recording and production techniques
  • AI and Assisted Tools: Smart processing, auto-tuning, quantization
  • CPU/DSP Resource Management: Latency, buffer settings, freeze/render
  • Audio Editing Tools: Comping, pitch correction, time stretching
  • Integration with Video: Post-production workflows
  • Mastering in DAWs: Digital mastering tools and techniques
  • Audio for Games: Interactive audio implementation
  • Mobile Production: Portable DAW solutions
  • Audio Programming Fundamentals: Coding for audio applications
  • Real-time Processing Considerations: Latency, buffer management, CPU optimization
  • API Development: Creating custom tools and extensions
  • Scripting and Automation: Workflow enhancement through programming