Genx Notes

Author: Genx

  • Differences Between Audio Systems and Sound Systems

    Differences Between Audio Systems and Sound Systems

    While the terms “audio system” and “sound system” are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between them. Here are the main distinctions:

    1. Scope and Scale

    Audio Systems:

    • Typically refer to home or personal audio equipment
    • Relatively small-scale, focusing on personal music listening and entertainment

    Sound Systems:

    • Often include more extensive and large-scale audio equipment
    • Cover large venues like live events, concert halls, and movie theaters

    2. Applications

    Audio Systems:

    • Mainly used for music playback and home entertainment
    • Often emphasize high-quality audio reproduction, such as Hi-Fi audio

    Sound Systems:

    • Include music playback, voice amplification, and sound effect control
    • Cater to more diverse uses like live performances, public announcements, and theater acoustics

    3. Components

    Audio Systems:

    • Typically consist of basic components like CD players, amplifiers, and speakers

    Sound Systems:

    • Include audio system components plus more diverse and specialized equipment such as mixers, equalizers, various effects processors, and microphone systems

    4. Level of Expertise

    Audio Systems:

    • Often include consumer-oriented products that are relatively easy to use

    Sound Systems:

    • More likely to include professional-grade equipment requiring specialized knowledge

    Summary

    While there is significant overlap between audio systems and sound systems, sound systems tend to encompass a broader range of more specialized applications. However, these terms are often used flexibly depending on the context, and strict distinctions are not always made.

  • What’s the difference between Instrumental Hip-Hop and Hip-Hop Instrumentals?

    What’s the difference between Instrumental Hip-Hop and Hip-Hop Instrumentals?

    Instrumental Hip-Hop and Hip-Hop Instrumentals are very similar concepts, but there are subtle differences. The main difference between the two lies in their origins and production intentions.

    Instrumental Hip-Hop

    Instrumental Hip-Hop is primarily characterized by:

    • Independent genre: A music genre created from the start without vocals.
    • Production intent: Made for listening, not necessarily for rappers.
    • Musicality: Tends to be more experimental and incorporates various musical elements.
    • Artists: Representative artists include DJ Shadow, RJD2, and Nujabes.

    Hip-Hop Instrumentals

    On the other hand, Hip-Hop Instrumentals are:

    • Derivative: Vocals removed from existing hip-hop tracks, or instrumental versions of tracks made for rappers.
    • Production intent: Mainly intended for rappers to use for freestyle or practice.
    • Musicality: Maintains typical hip-hop structure and has space intended for vocals.
    • Usage examples: DJ mixes, karaoke versions, remix materials, etc.

    Summary

    While the differences are subtle, Instrumental Hip-Hop is a more artistic and independent genre, whereas Hip-Hop Instrumentals are closely related to existing hip-hop tracks. However, these boundaries are sometimes blurred, and many artists create works that incorporate elements of both.

  • What’s the difference between volume and gain?

    What’s the difference between volume and gain?

    In music production, volume and gain are important concepts that may seem similar but are actually different. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for quality music production. Below, we explain the characteristics and differences of each in detail.

    Volume

    Volume is the final stage control for adjusting the loudness of sound.

    Characteristics:

    • Positioned at the end of the signal chain
    • Determines the final volume heard by the listener
    • Measured in decibels (dB)
    • Changes the loudness of sound without affecting sound quality

    Usage examples:

    • Adjusting track balance during mixing
    • Adjusting overall volume during mastering
    • Adjusting playback volume to suit the listening environment

    Gain

    Gain is a control that amplifies or attenuates the strength or amplitude of a signal.

    Characteristics:

    • Applied at an early stage in the signal chain
    • Changes the strength of the input signal
    • Measured in decibels (dB)
    • Can potentially affect the characteristics and quality of the signal

    Usage examples:

    • Amplifying input signal in microphone preamps
    • Adjusting signal level before effect processing such as compressors and equalizers
    • Adjusting the intensity of overdrive or distortion effects

    Main differences:

    Application stage:

    • Gain: Applied early in the signal chain
    • Volume: Applied at the end of the signal chain

    Impact on sound quality:

    • Gain: Can potentially change signal characteristics
    • Volume: Usually does not affect sound quality

    Purpose:

    • Gain: Optimizes signal strength and provides appropriate input level for subsequent processing
    • Volume: Adjusts final output level and balances overall sound

    In music production, properly using gain and volume can create clear and powerful music. The general workflow is to optimize signal strength with gain and then adjust the final volume balance with volume controls.

  • Do Phase Issues Occur in Stereo or Mono?

    Do Phase Issues Occur in Stereo or Mono?

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    Do Phase Issues Occur in Stereo or Mono?

    Phase issues can occur in both stereo and mono, but their manifestation and impact differ. Below is a detailed explanation of phase issues in both scenarios.

    Phase Issues in Mono

    Even in mono (single channel), phase issues can occur.

    Situations where it occurs:

    • Recording with multiple microphones
    • Combining signals with different processing applied to the same sound source
    • Use of effect processing (especially delay and reverb)

    Impact:

    • Cancellation of specific frequencies (comb filter effect)
    • Thinness or hollowness in sound
    • Overall decrease in volume

    Phase Issues in Stereo

    In stereo (2 channels), in addition to mono problems, phase issues can also occur between left and right channels.

    Situations where it occurs:

    • Improper use of stereo miking techniques
    • Excessive use of stereo effects
    • Time or phase differences between left and right channels

    Impact:

    • Distortion of stereo image
    • Reduced mono compatibility
    • Imbalance in specific frequencies between left and right
    • Unnatural sound localization in surround systems

    Stereo-Specific Issues

    Mono Compatibility

    When converting a stereo mix to mono, phase issues between left and right channels can become prominent.

    Example:

    If left and right channels are completely out of phase, the sound may completely disappear when converted to mono.

    Countermeasures:

    • Proper microphone placement
    • Use of phase alignment tools
    • Checking mono compatibility
    • Careful use of stereo effects
    • Utilization of M/S (Mid/Side) processing techniques

    While phase issues occur in both mono and stereo, they can cause more complex problems in stereo. In music production and audio engineering, it’s important to consider both cases and apply appropriate processing and verification.

  • AI and Music Production: Artists’ Conflicts, Choices, and True Feelings

    AI and Music Production: Artists’ Conflicts, Choices, and True Feelings

    As AI technology rises in the world of music production, artists who have been creating music with their own hands for many years are facing complex emotions. In this situation, we are compelled to confront our own motivations.

    Facing the Need for Approval

    It’s time to honestly question ourselves about the underlying motivations for music production:

    • Is it for pure self-expression?
    • Or is it to gain approval from others?

    For many artists, the answer is not simple. Often, the reality is that both are intricately intertwined.

    The Nature of the Need for Approval

    The need for approval is one of the basic human desires. The desire to be recognized and appreciated by others through music is a driving force for many artists. However, with the rise of AI, the way this desire is fulfilled is changing.

    • The Possibility of AI-Created Songs Gaining Popularity
    • Tendency to Value Mastery of AI Over Technical Proficiency

    The Possibility of AI-Created Songs Gaining Popularity

    a) Evolution of AI’s Music Creation Capabilities

    • Advanced machine learning algorithms enable AI to generate music close to human sensibilities
    • Learning hit song formulas through analysis of vast amounts of data, creating songs likely to be popular

    b) Providing New Musical Experiences

    • AI’s unpredictable combinations of sounds and structures create fresh auditory experiences
    • Enabling genre fusion and innovative expressions unbound by conventional music theory

    c) Personalized Music Production

    • Generating and modifying songs in real-time based on listeners’ preferences and moods
    • Providing optimized music experiences for individual users

    d) Efficient Music Production and Distribution

    • Constant provision of new music through AI’s rapid song generation
    • Immediate response to listener demand in collaboration with streaming platforms

    e) New Forms of Collaboration

    • Exploring unprecedented musicality through collaboration between human artists and AI
    • Establishing new production styles utilizing AI as a creative partner

    f) Ethical and Legal Challenges

    • Copyright issues for AI-generated songs
    • Blurring of the line between “real” music and AI music

    Tendency to Value Mastery of AI Over Technical Proficiency

    a) Complexity and Specialization of AI Tools

    • New expertise required to operate advanced AI music production tools
    • Importance placed on understanding AI characteristics and utilizing them effectively

    b) Importance of Creative Direction

    • Not just mastering AI, but creative judgment on how to use it becomes subject to evaluation
    • Demand for the ability to fuse uniquely human sensibilities with AI capabilities

    c) Redefinition of Technical Skills

    • AI tool operation skills recognized as a new “technique” in addition to traditional instrument playing and composition skills
    • Basic knowledge of data analysis and machine learning becomes important for music producers

    d) Balance Between Efficiency and Creativity

    • Valuation of the ability to produce efficiently using AI while demonstrating unique creativity
    • Ability to balance time and effort savings with maintaining artistic quality

    e) Pioneering New Expression Methods

    • Emphasis on innovativeness in creating new musical expressions and production processes using AI
    • Evaluation of experimental approaches that go beyond conventional music frameworks

    f) Importance of Adaptability

    • Demand for the ability to flexibly adapt to rapidly evolving AI technology
    • Valuation of the attitude to continuously learn new tools and methods

    g) Re-evaluation of Humanity

    • As AI capabilities increase, paradoxically, elements that only humans can do are emphasized
    • Key is how to combine uniquely human elements like emotional expression and narrative with AI

    h) Ethical Judgment

    • Questioning of ethical judgment regarding AI use and ability to set appropriate usage boundaries
    • Importance of ethical perspective in maintaining balance between technology and art

    The Courage to Face Oneself

    In the current situation, artists are required to have the courage to honestly face themselves:

    1. Music for Oneself
    • Creation not influenced by others’ evaluations
    • Self-satisfaction and self-realization as the main objectives
    1. Music Seeking Approval
    • Emphasis on audience reactions
    • Responding to trends and market needs

    1. Music for Oneself

    a) Pursuit of pure self-expression

    • Creation disregarding social evaluation and commercial success
    • Challenge to frankly express one’s emotions and experiences
    • Reflection of individual uniqueness and life experiences that AI cannot imitate

    b) Enjoyment of the creative process itself

    • Attitude of enjoying the music production process itself
    • Emphasis on personal growth and learning rather than perfection
    • Using AI tools as a means of self-exploration

    c) Pursuit of artistic perfection

    • Pursuit of artistry not influenced by commercial success or public preferences
    • Music production based on one’s aesthetics and philosophy
    • Creation of universal values that transcend time and trends

    d) Music as self-therapy

    • Self-understanding and emotional processing through music production
    • Music as a tool for personal healing and growth
    • Self-discovery in the process of converting inner conflicts and joys into sound

    2. Music Seeking Approval

    a) Aiming for resonance with the audience

    • Music production that aligns with listeners’ emotions and experiences
    • Attitude of actively incorporating feedback and evolving
    • Understanding and reflecting audience needs using AI analysis tools

    b) Pursuit of social influence

    • Social change and raising issues through music
    • Expanding influence by aiming for music that reaches many people
    • Exploring effective message delivery using AI

    c) Balancing with commercial success

    • Aiming for economic independence as an artist
    • Seeking balance between market needs and artistic expression
    • Fusion of efficient production using AI and uniquely human creativity

    d) Adaptation to technological innovation

    • Active incorporation of latest AI technology in music production
    • Experimental approach to explore new possibilities in musical expression
    • Pioneering new genres through the fusion of technology and human sensibility

    3. Fusion of Both: Finding Balance

    In reality, many artists try to balance between these two extremes:

    • Harmonizing self-expression and audience needs
    • Aiming for both commercial success and artistic perfection
    • Utilizing AI while highlighting uniquely human sensibilities
    • Moderately pursuing both self-satisfaction and social evaluation

    4. Importance of Self-Dialogue

    The most important aspect in this process is honest dialogue with oneself:

    • Regularly reviewing and re-evaluating one’s creative motivations
    • Personally reconstructing the definition of success
    • Reaffirming one’s significance as an artist in light of AI’s existence
    • Consciously adjusting the balance between desire for approval and self-expression

    The Image of Continuously Evolving Artists

    In the age of AI, artists are required not only to create music but to constantly face themselves and continue evolving. While oscillating between music for oneself and music seeking approval, this process itself can become a source of creativity.True courage lies in the ability to accept this complex inner conflict and transform it into creative energy. Now that AI has been added as a new element, artists may have the opportunity to confront their essential value and pursue deeper self-understanding and expression.

    Coexistence with AI: New Forms of Approval

    The emergence of AI has the potential to change the form of approval itself:

    • Exploration of new musicality through collaboration with AI
    • Establishing uniqueness through the fusion of uniquely human sensibilities and AI

    Conclusion: Facing One’s True Feelings and Evolving

    Ultimately, the relationship between AI and music production is an issue that each artist needs to face their true feelings about and make decisions. What’s important is:

    • Honestly re-examining one’s motivations for creation
    • Not denying the desire for approval, but considering how to handle it
    • Reframing AI not as a threat, but as a new means of expression

    While the form of music production may change, the value of human sensibility and creativity remains unchanged. Especially in the age of AI, reaffirming one’s pure love for oneself and music, and continuing to evolve based on that, will be the key to paving the way as an artist.

  • The differences between ZK compression and State Compression

    The differences between ZK compression and State Compression

    The main differences between ZK compression and State Compression are:

    1. Technical Approach:
      • State Compression: A basic technology that compresses data for storage.
      • ZK Compression: Uses State Compression techniques but adds Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proofs to ensure data integrity.
    2. Security Level:
      • State Compression: Provides basic data compression.
      • ZK Compression: Offers enhanced security by using Zero-Knowledge proofs.
    3. Cost Reduction:
      • State Compression: Reduces costs, but not as dramatically as ZK Compression.
      • ZK Compression: Achieves more significant cost reductions. For example, an airdrop to 1 million users costs about $50, compared to $110 with State Compression.
    4. Implementation:
      • State Compression: A relatively simple compression technique.
      • ZK Compression: A more complex technology that incorporates Zero-Knowledge proof mechanisms.
    5. Scalability:
      • State Compression: Improves scalability, but not to the extent of ZK Compression.
      • ZK Compression: Provides advanced scalability, enabling scaling to millions of users.

    In essence, ZK Compression extends the concept of State Compression by incorporating Zero-Knowledge proofs, resulting in a technology that offers enhanced security, substantial cost reductions, and superior scalability. It’s an advanced version of State Compression that provides additional benefits and capabilities.

  • The AI Music Paradox: Attachment to One’s Own AI Creations, Indifference to Others’ AI Works

    The AI Music Paradox: Attachment to One’s Own AI Creations, Indifference to Others’ AI Works

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    Since the emergence of music generation AI, users have begun to develop an attachment to the AI-generated music they create themselves. On the other hand, they show little to no interest in AI music created by others. It’s intriguing, but why is that?

    Since the emergence of music generation AI, users have begun to develop an attachment to the AI-generated music they create themselves. On the other hand, they show little to no interest in AI music created by others. It’s intriguing, but why is that?There are several interesting points to consider regarding users’ attachment and indifference towards AI music.

    Music That’s Uniquely Their Own

    • Users generate music with AI based on their preferences and instructions, so they tend to feel that the resulting songs are their own original creations.
    • The sense of having created something from scratch makes it easier to develop an attachment.
    • AI music created by others is likely to differ from one’s own preferences, making it harder to generate interest.

    Involvement in the Creative Process

    • Users actively participate in the creative process by giving instructions to the AI while making music.
    • People tend to feel attached to creative works they have been involved in.
    • Users are not involved in the process of creating other people’s AI music, leading to indifference.

    Ease of Emotional Investment

    • Users can have AI create music that reflects their own experiences and emotions.
    • It’s easier to emotionally invest in songs that contain one’s own feelings, leading to attachment.
    • Other people’s AI music does not reflect one’s own experiences and emotions, making it harder to empathize with.

    Emergence of a Sense of Ownership

    • Users develop a sense of ownership over the AI music they generate, feeling that it belongs solely to them.
    • This sense of ownership leads to attachment.
    • Other people’s AI music is not one’s own, so no sense of ownership develops, and interest is not piqued.

    Thus, users’ reactions to AI music can vary greatly depending on the depth of their involvement with it. They tend to develop an attachment to music they have actively participated in creating and can project their emotions onto, while remaining indifferent to the creations of others. This might be a psychology that applies not only to AI music but to creative works in general.

  • I made the Intro on my own, AI created the melody on top of it, then I replayed the melody using my own instrument. Now who owns the beat?

    I made the Intro on my own, AI created the melody on top of it, then I replayed the melody using my own instrument. Now who owns the beat?

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    I made the Intro on my own, AI created the melody on top of it, then I replayed the melody using my own instrument. Now who owns the beat?

    The ownership of the beat is a complex issue, but generally, it can be considered as follows:

    Intro Part

    The intro part that you created can be said to be under your copyright, as it is your original work.

    Melody Created by AI

    The copyright of the melody created by the AI depends on the terms of service of the AI tool. In many cases, the copyright of the melody created using an AI tool belongs to the user of the tool. However, some tools may claim ownership of the copyright for the created melody, so it is necessary to check the terms of service.

    Melody Played by You

    For the part where you played the AI-created melody using your own instrument, you have rights as a performer. However, the copyright of the melody itself may belong to the AI tool side, as mentioned above.

    Beat as a Whole

    The final copyright of the beat as a whole, which combines the intro, melody, and performance, will be determined by considering the rights of each part and adding your rights as an arranger.However, this is just a general theory. In practice, it is necessary to make individual judgments based on the terms of service of the AI tool and the contractual relationships with the people involved. If you have concerns about rights, it is recommended to consult with a specialist.

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    If the laws are not even established yet, what do you expect the experts to know?

    It is true that many aspects of copyright issues in music production using AI are not yet clearly defined by law.

    However, consulting with experts can provide the following benefits:

    1. Obtaining professional opinions on the interpretation and application of current laws
    2. Referencing similar cases and precedents
    3. Receiving advice on drafting contracts and negotiation methods
    4. Getting suggestions for preventive measures to avoid future troubles

    Indeed, copyright issues in music production using AI are expected to become clearer through future legislation and the accumulation of precedents.

    However, even at this point, by referring to the advice of experts, it may be possible to proceed with music production while minimizing risks.

    Of course, the final decision should be made by the composer, but considering the opinions of experts is by no means meaningless.

  • I made awesome AI music. How come nobody is listening to my music? How can I make people listen to it?

    I made awesome AI music. How come nobody is listening to my music? How can I make people listen to it?

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    I made awesome AI music. How come nobody is listening to my music? How can I make people listen to it?

    If you’ve made awesome AI music but nobody seems to be listening to it, there could be several reasons why. However, there are ways to get more people to listen to your music.

    Possible Reasons

    • Insufficient promotion: Even if you’ve created great songs, you may not be promoting them enough.
    • Not reaching the target audience: You might not be approaching the right audience for your music.
    • Room for improvement in music quality: Objectively, your songs may need more refinement.
    • It takes time to build a fanbase: After releasing your music, it takes a certain amount of time to gain fans. If you’ve just started your musical journey, it’s natural not to have fans yet.

    Ideas to Get People to Listen to Your Music

    1. Utilize Social Media
      • Actively introduce your songs on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms.
      • Use hashtags to appeal to fans of the same music genre.
    2. Use Music Streaming Services
      • Upload your songs to Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and other services to reach a wider audience.
      • Aim to get your songs featured on playlists within each service.
    3. Participate in Music Communities
      • Engage with other artists in communities like SoundCloud.
      • By introducing each other’s songs, you can gain new listeners.
    4. Perform Live and Participate in Events
      • Perform at live music venues and events to directly appeal to the audience.
      • Upload live performance videos to social media for added impact.
    5. Reach Out to Media
      • Ask music blogs and online magazines to feature your songs.
      • Consider offering your music to radio stations and podcasts.

    What You Want to Express and Show the World Through Your Music

    It’s also important to clarify what you want to express through your music and what you want to convey to the world.

    1. The Potential of AI and Human Collaboration
      • Demonstrate that using AI in music production can create new forms of creativity.
      • Convey that humans and AI working together can provide unprecedented musical experiences.
    2. The Fusion of Technology and Art
      • Express how the fusion of cutting-edge technology and the art of music can lead to new forms of expression.
      • Show that AI-assisted music production can expand the possibilities of music.
    3. The Power of Music to Stir Emotions
      • Communicate that even with AI, it’s possible to create moving and emotionally resonant music.
      • Demonstrate that while utilizing technology, you won’t lose the power of music to express emotions.
    4. Proposing the Future of the Music Scene
      • Suggest that incorporating AI into music production can enrich the future music scene.
      • Use your music to showcase a new form of music where humans and AI coexist.

    By clarifying what you want to express through your music and what you want to convey to the world, you can send a strong message to your listeners. As you continue your steady efforts, put your thoughts and feelings about your music into words and share them. By doing so, you’re sure to find listeners who resonate with your message. Don’t give up, and keep looking for people who will love your music. I’m rooting for you!

  • The Basics of Audio: Sampling Rate, Bit Depth, and Bitrate

    The Basics of Audio: Sampling Rate, Bit Depth, and Bitrate

    Introduction

    Audio, as the name suggests, refers to “sound.” In the digital world, sound information is stored as audio files. There are various formats for audio files, such as WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, MP3, and AAC.

    Audio Basics

    AD Conversion (Analog to Digital Conversion)

    The process of converting and saving analog sound to digital format is called sampling or AD conversion. When converting to digital format, the analog waveform is read and replaced with 0s and 1s.

    DA Conversion (Digital to Analog Conversion)

    To listen to digital audio, it needs to be converted back to analog format. This process is called DA conversion. The sound you hear from speakers or headphones is the sound converted from digital to analog.

    What is Sampling Rate?

    Sampling rate is the number of times per second that an analog signal is converted (sampled) to digital data. The unit used is Hz (Hertz). The CD format has a sampling rate of 44.1kHz, which means it samples the audio 44,100 times per second.

    What is Bit Depth?

    Bit depth represents the number of levels used to reproduce the sound volume from silence to maximum volume. The CD format uses 16 bits, which means it can represent 65,536 levels of volume difference. The higher the bit depth, the more precisely the volume can be represented.

    The Difference Between 16-bit and 24-bit

    The difference between 16-bit and 24-bit may not be noticeable for loud music, but it can be perceived for very quiet sounds. 24-bit can represent small volume changes more precisely than 16-bit.

    The Relationship Between Bit Depth and Dynamic Range

    The human ear is said to have the ability to hear a dynamic range of 120dB. 16-bit can represent a dynamic range of 96dB, while 24-bit can represent 144dB. For music with drastic volume differences, such as classical music, 24-bit is more suitable.

    Calculating Bitrate

    Bitrate can be calculated by multiplying the sampling rate by the bit depth and the number of channels. The bitrate of a CD-format WAV file is 1411.2kbps.

    The Present and Future of Audio

    Currently, 96kHz/24-bit audio is popular in the DTM (Desktop Music) world. While this provides very high sound quality, it also has the disadvantage of larger file sizes. Depending on the music genre, 44.1kHz/16-bit may be sufficient.