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.
