In AV terminology, what does "gain" refer to?

Gain, in AV terminology, refers specifically to the increase in audio signal strength. It is an essential concept in audio engineering and refers to the amplification of an audio signal, making it stronger as it travels through various components such as mixers, amplifiers, and speakers. By adjusting the gain, audio engineers can influence the overall loudness of the audio without distorting the sound up to a certain point. This is crucial for ensuring that the audio can be heard clearly, especially in environments with background noise.

Gain is fundamentally different from adjustments related to video brightness or general sound quality. While video brightness involves the visual aspect of a presentation and sound quality refers to clarity and fidelity in audio playback, gain strictly focuses on the level of the audio signal itself. Thus, understanding gain is vital for any practitioner involved in audio production and live sound management, as it directly affects the audience's listening experience.