A soundboard recording is a

sound recording Sound recording and reproduction is the electrical, mechanical, electronic, or digital inscription and re-creation of sound waves, such as spoken voice, singing, instrumental music, or sound effects. The two main classes of sound recordin ...

of a

concert A concert is a live music performance in front of an audience. The performance may be by a single musician, sometimes then called a recital, or by a musical ensemble, such as an orchestra, choir, or band. Concerts are held in a wide variet ...

taken from a direct connection to the soundboard at the venue. Soundboard recordings are considered to be among the highest quality bootleg recordings of live performances though some soundboard recordings may have an off-balance

audio mix Audio mixing is the process by which multiple sounds are combined into one or more channels. In the process, a source's volume level, frequency content, dynamics, and panoramic position are manipulated or enhanced. This practical, aesthetic ...

. Because access is required to sensitive equipment to make the recording, most soundboard recordings are authorized in some way either through a liberal policy on the part of the artists or specific permission granted to production staff. Though many soundboard recordings are only available as bootlegs, some are eventually released as legitimate live albums.

References

{{Sound-tech-stub Sound recording Sound production technology