Working in the world of audio-visual production means navigating a universe full of technical terms, acronyms, gear names, and phrases that can feel overwhelming—especially for clients who simply want their event, livestream, or show to look flawless. As a company deeply involved in AV rental and production, we at Megahertz Productions often find that clear communication starts with understanding the language of the industry.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the most essential AV terminology used across audio, video, lighting, staging, projection, computers, cameras, monitors, LED systems, and more. Whether you’re planning an event or simply want to communicate confidently with an AV team, this article will give you the clarity you need.

Our goal is simple: help you understand the vocabulary behind the technology so you can make better decisions, ask the right questions, and enjoy a smoother production process.

Let’s dive in.

Audio Terms You Should Know

Analog vs. Digital Audio

Analog audio uses continuous electrical signals. Digital audio converts sound into numerical data. Modern AV systems blend both, with digital providing cleaner transmission and easier control.

Mixer / Mixing Console

The audio mixer is the brain of the sound system. It blends multiple sound sources—microphones, music, instruments—so technicians can adjust levels, EQ settings, effects, and routing.

XLR

The standard three-pin connector used for professional microphones. It locks securely and resists interference.

Quarter-inch (1/4”) and 3.5mm

These connectors are used for instruments, consumer devices, and some playback sources.

Balanced vs. Unbalanced Cables

Balanced cables (XLR, TRS) reduce noise over long distances.
Unbalanced cables (TS, RCA) are more prone to interference.

DI Box

A device that converts unbalanced signals (like instruments or laptops) into balanced, noise-free signals for the audio mixer.

FOH (Front of House)

The main mix position in the audience area, where engineers control audio for the entire event.

Monitor Speakers

Placed on stage to help presenters or performers hear themselves.

Lavalier Microphone

A tiny clip-on microphone ideal for presenters, panels, and livestreams.

Handheld Microphone

Used for speeches, Q&A sessions, or performances.

Wireless Systems

Includes wireless handhelds, lavaliers, and in-ear monitors using RF frequencies.

Video Terminology for Modern Events

Resolution (720p, 1080p, 4K, 8K)

Resolution determines image clarity. 1080p (Full HD) is the current minimum standard for professional live streaming and on-screen displays. 4K (Ultra HD) is increasingly becoming the preferred standard for premium events, large screens, and high-quality recording.

Frame Rate (FPS)

Common frame rates include:

24 fps (cinematic look)
30 fps (standard broadcast)
60 fps (smooth, fast-motion events; the preferred standard for high-action or professional livestreams).

Video Switcher

The device that allows technicians to choose between cameras, slides, and media sources during a show or livestream.

Capture Card

Hardware that converts camera signals for use in computers—essential for livestreaming and webcasting.

SDI vs. HDMI

SDI is the professional standard for long cable runs and stable transmission.
HDMI is common in consumer devices but unreliable over long distances.

Note on Long Cable Runs: While HDMI is unreliable over long distances, professional AV teams use HDBaseT (which utilizes Cat-X cable) or Fiber Optic cables to transmit high-resolution HDMI signals hundreds of feet without loss or interference.

Color Temperature

Measured in Kelvin.

5600K = daylight
3200K = tungsten
Matching color temperature across devices ensures consistent image quality.

Camera Terminology Every Client Should Know

PTZ Cameras

PTZ stands for Pan-Tilt-Zoom.
These are robotic cameras controlled remotely—perfect for conferences and hybrid events.

Mirrorless vs. DSLR Cameras

Mirrorless cameras are lighter, quieter, and preferred for modern video production.

Cinema Cameras

High-end digital cameras for premium events, recording, and filmmaking.

Lens Types

Prime lenses: fixed focal length, sharper image
Zoom lenses: versatile for events with movement
Wide-angle: perfect for capturing full rooms
Telephoto: useful for long-distance shots

Focus Terms

Auto-Focus (AF): camera adjusts focus automatically
Manual Focus (MF): operator controls focus
Depth of Field: how much of the shot is in focus

ISO / Shutter Speed / Aperture

The holy trinity of exposure:

ISO adds brightness with sensitivity
Shutter speed controls motion blur
Aperture dictates light and depth of field

Lighting Terms Used in AV Production

Spotlight

A focused beam used to highlight presenters or performers.

Wash Light

Covers a large area with even, soft light—ideal for stage backdrop or ambient lighting.

Uplighting

Decorative lighting placed at floor level to add color to walls or drapes.

LED PAR

Energy-efficient LED lights with rich color capabilities.

Ellipsoidal / Leko

A precise fixture used to frame or shape light around a subject.

DMX

The universal control protocol for lighting. DMX cables allow lighting desks to control intensity, color, and movement.

Color Gels and Digital Color Mixing

Modern fixtures use digital RGB, RGBW, or RGBA LEDs instead of gels for vibrant, accurate colors.

Gobos

Metal or glass templates inserted in lighting fixtures to project patterns or logos.

Projector and Display Terminology

Lumens

The brightness level of a projector.
Higher lumens = better performance in bright environments.

Throw Ratio

Determines how far a projector must be from the screen for a given image size:

Short-throw projectors create large images from short distances.
Long-throw projectors are ideal for large venues.

Rear Projection

The projector sits behind the screen, providing a clean, cable-free setup for speakers and audiences.

Front Projection

Standard setup with projector facing the audience.

Aspect Ratio

Common formats include:

16:9 for widescreen
4:3 for older presentations
21:9 for cinematic displays

LED Wall Terminology

Pixel Pitch

The distance between pixels in an LED panel.
Smaller pitch = higher clarity.

Modular Panels

LED walls are built from smaller panels that connect seamlessly.

Processor / Scaler

Controls resolution, layout, and image quality for the LED wall.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Panels

Outdoor LED tiles are brighter and weather-resistant.

TV and Monitor Terminology

Confidence Monitor

Placed facing presenters so they can see slides, notes, or timers.

Stage Display / Foldback Monitor

Helps speakers track cues without turning toward the main screen.

Consumer vs. Commercial Displays

Commercial monitors are:

Brighter
More durable
Designed for 24/7 or 18/7 continuous operation (unlike consumer TVs, which are designed for typical home use).

Refresh Rate

Higher refresh rates result in smoother visuals—useful for gaming events or dynamic content.

Computer and AV Integration Terms

Playback Laptop

A dedicated laptop for slides, videos, and media playback.

Graphics Output Ports

HDMI
DisplayPort
USB-C with Display Alt Mode

Latency

The delay between input and display. Lower latency is essential for livestreams and IMAG (live camera projection).

Encoder

Transforms video signals for live streaming platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Zoom.

Content Management

Refers to organizing and cueing media assets for smooth presentations.

Staging and Production Terms

Backdrop / Drape

Fabric or curtains used to frame a stage and hide backstage equipment.

Stage Risers

Modular platforms used to elevate speakers, panels, or performers.

Truss

Aluminum framework used to hang lights, speakers, and other equipment.

Load-in / Load-out

Setup and teardown phases of an event.

Run of Show (ROS)

A timeline for cues, transitions, speakers, and content.

IMAG

Image Magnification: projecting live camera feeds onto large screens.

Livestreaming and Webcasting Terminology

RTMP

A protocol that sends your stream to platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.

Multistreaming

Broadcasting to multiple platforms simultaneously.

Bitrate

Affects stream quality; higher bitrate = higher quality (if bandwidth allows).

Encoding Profiles

CBR (constant bitrate) for stability
VBR (variable bitrate) for efficiency

Virtual Event Platform

Software used for hybrid or online events.

Why Understanding AV Terminology Matters

When clients understand AV terminology:

Planning becomes faster and more collaborative
Miscommunication drops dramatically
The final event looks and sounds better
Teams can work more efficiently toward a shared creative vision

At Megahertz Productions, we believe that transparency, education, and partnership are key to producing events that feel smooth, professional, and stress-free.

Need AV Rental or Support? We’re Here to Help

If you need audio, video, lighting, camera, projector, LED wall, TV/monitor, or computer equipment rental, or complete AV production and livestreaming/webcasting services, our team at Megahertz Productions is ready to support your event from start to finish.

For rentals, technical crews, or full-service production solutions, simply reach out—we’re always happy to help you create something exceptional.