Flanging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flanging

[หˆflรฆn.dส’ษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

audio effect

Flanging is an audio processing effect that combines two identical signals, with one signal delayed by a small and varying amount of time. This creates a characteristic swooping or whooshing sound. The effect is often used in music production to add depth and texture to sounds.

Synonyms

audio effect, modulation, phase shifting.

Examples of usage

  • The guitarist used flanging to give the solo a more dynamic sound.
  • I love the flanging effect on that synthesizer track.
  • The mix engineer applied flanging in the chorus to enhance the vocal line.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Music Production

  • Flanging is created by mixing two identical audio signals, one of which is delayed slightly, often using a hardware device known as a flanger.
  • It produces a distinctive whooshing or jet-like sound that became prominent in rock and psychedelic music.
  • Famous songs like 'Baba O'Riley' by The Who and 'And the Cradle Will Rock...' by Van Halen showcased this technique.

Technology

  • Flanging is a key effect in audio editing software and has seen advancements with digital plugins that allow for more control over the sound.
  • Modern musicians can apply flanging in real-time during live performances using digital interfaces and pedals.
  • Itโ€™s used in various genres, from rock and pop to hip-hop and electronic music, emphasizing its versatility.

Psychology of Sound

  • The flanging effect can create a sense of movement and space, affecting how listeners perceive music emotionally.
  • Research has shown that certain sound variations, like flanging, can stimulate nostalgia and enhance the listenerโ€™s connection to music.
  • It engages the auditory system in a way that makes sounds appear richer and more dynamic, enriching overall musical experiences.

Cultural Impact

  • Flanging influenced the sonic landscape of the 1970s music scene, solidifying its role in the avant-garde and experimental music movements.
  • It has been used in soundtracks for films and video games, contributing to atmospheres that evoke excitement or tension.
  • In modern music videos, flanging often accompanies visuals to create an immersive experience for viewers.

Origin of 'flanging'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originated from the word 'flange,' which refers to a projecting flat edge or border, particularly in engineering contexts.
  • It became popular in audio engineering in the 1960s as musicians began to use it to create unique sound effects.
  • The word was first documented in reference to this audio technique in the early 1970s.

The term 'flanging' originated in the late 1960s and is derived from the word 'flange.' A flange is a device used in audio engineering that involves manipulating the playback of two identical audio signals. The concept of flanging emerged from the practice of manually varying the playback speed of a tape on a tape machine, which caused the pitch to fluctuate and produce a unique sound. As technology advanced, electronic methods for achieving the flanging effect were developed, leading to its widespread use in modern music production. Flanging became particularly popular in rock music and during the psychedelic era, as artists experimented with audio effects to create innovative soundscapes.