Audio Guitar Pickups
In an audio signal, which component carries the information signal?
Hey guys,
Let's use a guitar's pickup as an example. It produces a small voltage which is then sent to a preamp, amp, mixer, etc. However, the load (preamp, etc.) draws current in order to get the voltage there.
So, what actually contains the audio information, the voltage or current? I am assuming it is voltage since level (as in line level) is measured in dBV's or dBu's, which is equal to a certain voltage.
If it is voltage, what does does current do for the signal?
The load is actually DC, which means it's introducing a constant current and voltage level. Think of it like an electrocadiogram - one of those machines in the hospital that shows your heart rate. The signal of the heart rate is a voltage that's "riding" on top of the base level.
If you've tried recording yourself into your computer and look at the waveform, you'll see a flatline when there is no signal. When you play quietly, the positive and negative peaks of the waveform will be close to the zero crossing point (your flatline). As you play louder, the peaks will be higher - which means the voltage level is higher. That's a whole other set of theory - if you're interested in learning more I would definitely check out this online book:
http://www.tonmeister.ca/main/textbook/node1.html
The section on AC/DC and RMS electricity may help.
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