Recording Handbook - Hol.gr

Q1.1 What is a 4-track machine?
A 4-track machine is an audio device that allows the user to record
four separate channels, perhaps simultaneously or perhaps at different
times (possibly out of sequence), so that they may be played back
simultaneously.
The ability to record at different times or out of sequence
distinguishes 4-tracking from recording onto a stereo deck.
Q1.1.1 What is an FX (effects) loop?
'FX' is the usual abbreviation for 'effects' in scripts and stage
directions.
An effect loop 'splits off' the signals on their way out of the
4-track (or mixer) and sends them to an external effects unit. The
output of that unit is then fed back into the output of the 4-track /
mixer. You can set, for each track, what level of signal is sent to
the effect unit, so you can have some tracks heavily treated and some
not treated at all.
For example, suppose you have 4 tracks of soaring music on tape,
including a trumpet. If you played the whole mix through a reverb,
it'd be like listening to it in a cathedral; unusably reverbed. Thus,
you want to add reverb to the trumpet.
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