Science and Math Guides

Here contains guides for all the sciences and maths. Guides are broad self help for non technical topics usually dealing with academia or career advice.

digital audio guide

Hybrid AI Video Codecs and Modern Streaming Techniques

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Introduction AI and Hybrid Codecs Modern Video codecs are all based on similar principles. Recently, these have been complemented by AI techniques,…
digital audio guide

Sinc Function & Upsampling in Digital Audio Explained

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Introduction This elaborates some of the claims in my insights article on digital audio. The Sinc Function Upsampling and Zero Insertion The first link…
digital audio intro

Modern DACs, Dither, DXD & High-Res Audio Explained

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Introduction First, we need some background in Digital Signals. This can be mathematically quite advanced, but since I would like this article to be accessible…
chatgpt-reliable

Why ChatGPT Is Unreliable: Design Limits and Misconceptions

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ChatGPT's reliability I'll start with the simple fact: ChatGPT is not a reliable answerer to questions. Wolfram's explanation To try to explain why from…
Infinitesimals

What Are Infinitesimals – Simple Version

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Introduction When I learned calculus, the intuitive idea of infinitesimal was used. These are real numbers so small that, for all practical purposes (say…
teaching physics

A Lesson In Teaching Physics: You Can’t Give It Away

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A central principle of Physics Forums regarding homework help is not to provide solutions on demand but to guide students along a path to the answer. …
ATmega8A

Program ATmega8A with Arduino: Step-by-Step Guide

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Introduction If you are interested in programming and electronics, you probably do not need an introduction to Arduino. If you want to make your Arduino…
quantum computers 101

Quantum Computing Explained: Qubits, Algorithms & Applications

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Overview This article provides an accessible introduction to quantum computing, a cutting-edge technology that processes certain types of information…
LCEVC 8k tv

LCEVC and EVC: Efficient Video Encoding Guide for 8K

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Introduction Background: H.264 and H.265 First, for background, here is an overview of the most common video compression standard in use today, H264:…
Physics Olympiad Corrections

ASOE Physics Past Exams: Yearly Issues & Corrections

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ASOE Physics — Review of Past Exam Issues ref: http://asi.edu.au/programs/past-exams/physics-olympiad-past-exams/Classification of issues: [1*]…
android ringtone

Android Ringtone Picker with RingtoneManager (Java)

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Android Ringtone Picker using RingtoneManager In article, I will show you how to create a ringtone picker using the RingtoneManager class in Android.…
artificial intelligence

AI and Learning: How It Impact Our Future

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PF Advisors: How AI Will Affect STEM — Part 3We asked our PF Advisors, "How do you see the rise in AI affecting STEM in the lab, classroom, industry,…
artificial intelligence

How the Rise of AI Is Transforming STEM: Labs to Classrooms

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We asked our Physics Forums (PF) Advisors: "How do you see the rise of AI affecting STEM in the lab, classroom, industry, and everyday society?" We received…
android rooting

Android Rooting & Magisk Guide: Systemless Root Tips

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Android Rooting & Magisk Guide: Systemless Root Tips Overview What you can learn from this article:What is meant by rooting an Android phone …
bloatware android phones

Debloating Android Phones: Risks, Myths and Safe Tips

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What is bloatware? Stock firmware and preinstalled apps When you unbox a new phone, it comes with Android pre-installed by the manufacturer. This is…
what if physics questions

How to Ask ‘What If’ Physics Questions: Avoiding Pitfalls

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Overview of "What If" Questions We receive many "what if" questions here on Physics Forums. This article explores three common types and offers suggestions…
Camera Lens Physics

Evaluate Camera Lens Performance Using an LCD Display

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Introduction I've done plenty of imaging performance testing on a variety of systems, from millimeter wave to UV. Until very recently, such testing required…
20 year tech predictions

Revolutionary Technologies and Discoveries in 20 Years

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Experts weigh in: Most revolutionary technologies and discoveries in the next 20 years We asked our Physics Forums science advisors, "What technology…
science major advice

Aiming High and Managing Distractions as Keys to Success for Science Majors

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Overview Over the years, I've noticed some distinct trends among the physics and chemistry majors I've mentored and worked with. Those with GPAs in…
Simple Harmonic Oscillator Laboratory

An Accurate Simple Harmonic Oscillator Laboratory

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[CONTENT] Learning ObjectivesExecute a specific experimental procedure to test a specific hypothesis. Use the Tracker video analysis software for…
Telescope Buying Guide

Beginner Telescope Guide: Choose the Right First Scope

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What telescope should a beginner buy? Overview for beginners People often ask what telescope an aspiring amateur astronomer should buy. There isn't a single…
physics blogs

What Are Your Favorite Science or Math Blogs?

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We asked our PF Advisors to tell us what their favorite science or math blog is (other than PF Insights).We also have a physics blog list here.Here…

What Academic Advice Would You Tell Your 18 Year Old Self?

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We asked our PF Advisors to tell us what academic advice would you tell your 18 year old self. Here are their responses… PF Advisors' Academic AdviceThanks…
advisor_textbooks

What’s Your Most Memorable Textbook?

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We asked our PF Advisors to tell us their most memorable or influential textbook and why. Here are their responses... PF Advisors' Favorite TextbooksThanks…
debatetips

3 Tips for Calmer, Civil Debate and Better Conversations

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Introduction Civil discussion and debate are critical to Physics Forums. But it is also important in everyday life. When arguments get overheated, people…
textbook

The Birth of a Physics Textbook: An Author’s Journey

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 It is said that you should accomplish three things in life:Plant a tree. Have a child. Write a book.Out of the three, I have…
10mathtips

Exam Tips & Test Strategies: Practical Study Techniques

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Managing Exam Stress Exam situations are always situations of stress. It comes with our endeavor to be as good as possible and our fear of failure. Some…
solarimaging

Solar System Imaging: Telescope, Camera & Filters Guide

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Introduction Some of the most visible features in our sky are solar system objects: the Sun, the Moon, and the planets. These objects are generally much…
computerlanguages

Types of Computer Languages: From Machine to High-Level

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Introduction In this Insights Guide, the focus is entirely on types of languages, how they relate to what computers do, and how they are used by people.…
tripods

Tripod Guide: Parts, Types, and Uses for Photographers

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Click for complete series Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: TripodsWhy use a tripod? …
dslr

DSLR Guide: Lenses, Aberrations, Filters & Techniques

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Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: TripodsI'm ready for a DSLR! These cameras were originally designed…
astro_advanced

Astrophotography: Mounts, Tracking & Image Processing

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Series linksPart 1: Introduction to Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced AstrophotographyMotivation "I’ve…
astro_inter

Astrophotography Guide: Equipment, Exposure & Processing

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Complete Series Part 1: Introduction Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced Astrophotography Level…
astro_intro

Astrophotography Guide: Beginner to Advanced Tips & Gear

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Part 1: Introduction to Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced AstrophotographySeries & prerequisites For…
digitalcamera3

Digital Camera Buyer’s Guide: Bridge Cameras

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Click for complete seriesPart 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: TripodsWho this guide is for This…
digitalcamera2

Ultimate Digital Camera Buyer’s Guide: Compacts, DSLR and Tripods

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Introduction Who this guide is for First, congratulations! Camera technology has advanced to the point where a complete novice, using an entry-level…
digitalcamera1

Digital Camera Buyer’s Guide — Choose the Best Camera

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Complete seriesIntroduction Overview First, congratulations! Camera technology has advanced so much that a complete novice using an entry-level camera…
introphysics

So I Am Your Intro Physics Instructor

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I posted this elsewhere (on my blog), and someone mentioned that maybe it might also be useful here on PF. So I'm reproducing the entire entry here in…
qualitycontrol

Hardware, Software, and C Programming Quality Tips

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On Hardware Quality Designing Quality vs Testing It is impossible to test quality into a product. Quality must be designed into the product. Production…
selfstudy

Self-Study Roadmap: Abstract Algebra, Groups to Galois

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Overview Roadmap There are three major areas of mathematics: geometry, analysis, and algebra. This insight gives a roadmap for learning basic abstract…
selfstudy

Why Self-Studying Math Often Fails: 5 Common Pitfalls

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My experience helping self-studiers For several years I have helped students who were self-studying mathematics. I did this free, without compensation,…
physicsathome

High School Physics: Courses, Resources, and Prep Guide

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Why High School Physics Matters A year-long high school Physics course is important preparation for all college majors in science, engineering, and medicine…
selfstudyanalysis

Advanced Real Analysis: Measure & Functional Study Plan

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Prerequisites If you wish to follow this guide, you should be familiar with analysis on ##\mathbb{R}## and ##\mathbb{R}^n##. See my previous insight for…
linearalgebra_selfstudy

Linear Algebra Roadmap: Prereqs, Books & Topics Guide

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Overview This article gives a roadmap for students to learn the basics of linear algebra. Aside from calculus, linear algebra is one of the most applicable…
mathresources

Top High School College-Prep Math Options & Resources

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The popularity of homeschooling and failures of the public schools often present the need for parents to teach or supplement college preparatory math courses…
mathiq

Can You Succeed in Mathematics? Common Concerns Answered

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Introduction We often see threads from new members asking whether they are cut out for mathematics, physics, engineering, or other technical fields.…
highschoolmath

College-Level Math Options for High School Students

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This insight is written for high school students who don't feel very challenged by their high school courses or who want a taste of what university mathematics…
scienceprojects

Guide to Successful Science Fair Projects & Mentoring

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Abstract Over the past few years, the author and his wife have served as teachers, qualified scientists, mentors, and/or parents on dozens of science projects…
geometry1

Pure Geometry Study Guide: Books & Roadmap for Students

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Introduction to Pure Geometry Why study pure geometry? Geometry is one of the oldest parts of mathematics. It has been studied and advanced by the greatest…
mathanalysis1

Self-Study Analysis Roadmap: From Proofs to Manifolds

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Introduction This is a sequel to my posts on self-studying mathematics. I have already given a very detailed road map on how to study high school mathematics…
goingbacktoschool

A Guide to Going Back to School For Math or Science

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Motivations for creating the series I came to Physics Forums originally to read ZapperZ’s thread about becoming a physicist back in 2013. It was one…
studymath2

How to Self-Study Calculus: Topics, Order & Book Guide

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Click For Complete SeriesHow to Study Mathematics How to Self-Study Basic High School Mathematics How to Self-Study CalculusWe often get questions…
doubt

Doubt, Discouragement, and Perseverance in STEM Careers

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Doubt, as odd as this may sound, can be essential to living. We all make decisions and later question whether we made the right choice; doubt helps influence…
procrastination

Overcome Procrastination: Practical Student Strategies

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Introduction It's 6:30 in the morning. You've just woken up and feel so sleepy you think, "A few more minutes can't hurt," and drift back under your comforter. The…
physics course

CV Tips for Physicists: Secure Postdoc & Research Jobs

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
physics doctoral

Postdoctoral Positions: How to Succeed as a Physicist

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
physics jobs

Physics PhD Job Search: Start Well Before Graduation

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
thesis defense

Preparing for Your Physics PhD Thesis Defense Effectively

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Overview: The Thesis Defense At this point you have completed writing your thesis, your adviser has approved it, and you have distributed it to all members…
doctoral thesis

Writing Your Doctoral Thesis: Guide for Physics Grad

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
oral presentation2

APS March & April Meetings: Guide for Physics Grad Students

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Overview of the APS March and April Meetings I'll try not to make a habit out of this, but I believe there's something to add to this chapter of the…
physics journals2

How to Publish in a Physics Journal (Addendum)

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College …
oral presentation

Presenting Physics Research: Conference Tips for Students

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Part I: Early Physics Education in High Schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College Part III: Mathematical Preparations Part IV: The…
masterdegree

How to Write a Master Degree Thesis As a Physics Major

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Your First Scientific Paper Ought to be good! Structure and Contents of a Master's Degree Thesis This guide was written some years ago as a guideline for…
physics journals

How to Publish Your PhD Research in Physics Journals

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
lab work

Research Ethics for Physicists: Keep a Detailed Lab Notebook

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Starting Your Research and Keeping Good Records Now, where were we? Oh yes — you have started your actual research work. You and your adviser have…
advisor research

Choosing a Physics Research Advisor in Graduate School

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
grad exam

Pass Physics Grad Qualifying Exams: Strategies & Plan

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College …
other majors

Entering Physics Graduate School Without a Physics Degree

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Can you enter physics graduate school without a physics degree? I decided to write about this because it is a very common question on many physics forums:…
publishing in journals

Guide to Publishing in Peer Reviewed Journals

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From Concept to Manuscript You've done the science.  You had an idea, performed an extensive literature review, designed an experiment, ran the experiment,…
alternative careers

Careers with a Physics Degree: Alternatives & Advice

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
physics blogs

Physics Blogs You Need to Be Reading

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These are some of the best physics blogs, updated regularly, written by some of the top minds. The feeds are updated on page refresh, so bookmark this…
physics career

Understanding the US Physics Graduate School System

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
matlab errors

5 Common MATLAB Error Messages and How to Fix Them

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In this Insight, I'll go over 5 common MATLAB error messages, what they mean, and how to fix them. Hopefully, after reading this post you'll find yourself…
before grad school

Physics Graduate Assistantships: TA vs RA Explained

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College …
physics grad school

Physics Grad School: Senior-Year Application Guide

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College …
physics major

Physics Major Guide: Succeed in Years 3–4 and Research

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year of College …
medical physics

How to Become a Medical Physicist in 3653 Easy Steps

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For many physics students, Medical Physics is that branch of the discipline that seems to hover in the no-man's land between academia and "industry." It's…
math preparations

Mathematical Prep for Physics Majors — Essential Guide

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Full Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... Series Part I: Early Physics Education in High schools Part II: Surviving the First Year…
surviving college

Essential Guide: Surviving Your First Year in Physics

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Part II: Surviving the First Year of College This part covers survival tips for the first two undergraduate years. You’re now in college and intend…
Early Physics Education in High schools

Early Physics Education in High Schools For Physics Majors

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So You Want to Be a Physicist: A 22-Part GuideFull Chapter List - So You Want To Be A Physicist... SeriesPart I: Early Physics Education in High…
ADHD studying

Overcoming Challenges of Self-Studying Number Theory

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Introduction During my summer break I spent several hours each day self-studying mathematics—primarily number theory—even though I had no prior experience…
crackpot

How to Spot Pseudoscience: A Practical Science Guide

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It often feels like we're being swamped with "science" these days — but much of it is not real science. Genuine science follows the scientific method,…
solar_eclipse

Solar Eclipse Viewing & Safety Guide — What to Expect

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Eclipse Viewing Key PointsNever view the Sun with the naked eye for any length of time; doing so can cause irreversible eye damage or blindness. …
crackpot_index

The Science Crackpot Index and Bingo Game

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114 Comments
Discussing science online can be a frustrating experience when no quality controls are in place—which is often the case. As part useful reference and…
amplifier

Studio in a Box: Learn About Digital Modeling Amplifiers

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Digital Modeling Key PointsDigital Signal Processing (DSP) emerged in the mid-1970s, enabling musicians to simulate acoustic spaces and reproduce many…