Signal Path and Signal Processing

The modern project studio, though digitally streamlined, is comprised of a vast array of hardware and software. These tools have evolved over several decades to manage the ever-growing track counts and sophisticated signal processing needs. Even the most basic project studios often contain outboard gear and control surfaces to complement software applications; however, much of the equipment that used to fill racks in an analog studio has since been replaced by software. As with analog studios, there continues to be a need to direct signals to and from both software plug-ins and hardware devices. The process of moving audio within the studio environment is referred to as signal routing . The various routes taken are called signal paths . Signals are routed within the studio environment to accomplish mixing tasks and signal processing .