Gain

This is the name given to the amplification of a signal level. It can be expressed as a ratio of the output signal amplitude to the input signal amplitude.

For example:

Gain = Vout / Vin

Gain is normally expressed in dB.

For Voltage Gain use:

Gain (dB) = 20 log10 Vout/Vin

For Current Gain use:

Gain (dB) = 20 log10 Iout/Iin

For Power Gain use:

Gain (dB) = 10 log10 Vout/Vin

Gain Control

This is a device that adjusts the gain of an amplifier. This is normally done by altering the amount of negative feedback in the amplifying system. A Gain Control is not the same as an ‘attenuator’ or a ‘volume’ control.

Gatefold

A fold-out vinyl album sleeve is also used for some Digipack CD cases. Typically Gatefold sleeves either open like a book or fold out into three sections. Gatefold sleeves are normally used for double LPs, though they may also be used for singles, 12″ singles, EPs, or specials and collectibles with certain artwork needs.

Gatekeeper

The music industry name was given to aggregators and other services that may filter the material available to the public. Gatekeepers include Major labels, national media, and streaming service providers.

Name given to websites and services that filter music submissions to record labels, music publishers, music directors, etc.

Glass Master

A glass master is used during the CD replication process. It is created by the replicator, based on the submitted mastered recording, as a master for the purpose of pressing CDs. It is a one-off cost added to the price of the first order of a CD run with a replicator. Subsequent runs use the glass master created as a result of the first run order.

Gold Album/Gold Single

In the USA, the RIAA certifies an album or single as gold when it sells 500,000 units. In the world of downloads and streaming, the digital transmission of 10 individual tracks by an artist counts as one album.

Many world territories have different sales thresholds for “gold.”. See https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_music_recording_certifications for a full list of music recording certifications.

Google Content ID

A method of identifying infringing uploaded content on YouTube using a licensing library. Audio fingerprinting technology is used to identify infringers, however people uploading routinely receive warning emails from YouTube despite uploading legitimate cover versions or even originals with similar titles to known works.

Granular Synthesis

This technique uses small segments of either sampled or synthesized sound to generate a new sound or sound texture.

Groove

The rhythmic “feel” of a song or piece of music.

Ground Loop

This is a condition that occurs when two or more paths to the ground exist and an unequal voltage is induced in each of the paths causing a buzz, hum, or other noise.

Group

This is a Mixing Desk channel to which a group of audio signals can be routed to allow the treatment and control of the resulting combined signal.

Guitar Neck

A long section of the guitar, normally made of wood, that the strings are stretched over.

Guitar Nut

The guitar nut is a strip, between the fretboard and headstock, on which the guitar strings sit. The nut normally has small notches which are used as guitar string guides.