Z

Zenith

The tilt of the tape head in the direction perpendicular to the tape travel.

  • Zenith refers to the angle or tilt of the recording and playback heads in an audio tape recorder.
  • Specifically, it refers to having the head gap tilted at an angle relative to perpendicular of the tape path.
  • Angling the head gap (e.g. 10-15 degrees) is what provides the benefits like reduced tape latency, more efficient use of tape area, and ability to pack more tracks.

Zero dB

The common reference point when discussing sound levels. Levels above 0 dB are expressed as positive (+5dB) and those below as negative (-20dB).