Channel

A discrete path or frequency band permitting the transmission of messages or signals. The width of the channel is usually restricted to accommodate just the types of signals employed in the messages, e.g. the telephone is restricted to the frequency band just necessary for the accurate comprehension of speech. The determination of channel capacity for information is studied in communication theory.

In tape recording, the number of channels or tracks refers to the number of discrete signals which may be recorded at one time, as in monophonic, stereophonic, quadraphonic and other multi-track formats.

See: Crosstalk, diagram under Magnetic Tape, Pan, Separation, Sound-on-Sound.