1st stage Audio Engineering course

Course Content of the Audio Engineering Course - 1st stage

• Introduction to Computing and Media

This unit familiarizes students with the versatility and diversity of multimedia applications linked to contemporary personal computing from both consumer and professional perspectives.

• Acoustics

The human ear, as a vital part of any audio-related profession, is the first topic of this unit. The anatomy of the ear and psycho acoustics are discussed as well as the principles of sound propagation. Later on, the course covers more advanced acoustic principles including the behaviour of sound in enclosed spaces, with special attention to reverberation and modal characteristics, in the context of recording studio design and construction.

• Microphones & Loudspeakers

This unit discusses transducer principles including microphone and loudspeaker design. Microphone choice and positioning are emphasised and explored in additional practicals.

• Mixing Consoles

During their training students are introduced to console designs ranging from home recording consoles to highly complex large format designs. Extensive hands-on learning is supported by a rigorous theoretical analysis of console signal flow.

• Music Production

This unit forms the link between technical and creative elements of professional music production. Topics covered include planning and pre production, team work, working with musicians, post production and mastering.

• Signal Processing

Topics include all types of effects processors, dynamics processing, equalisers and filters. The creative use of effects is discussed and demonstrated.

• Digital Audio

In this module students are introduced to digital audio theory including binary and hexadecimal numbering systems, A/D conversion, digital processing, and digital audio formats. Digital storage media are also examined in some detail.

• Live Engineering

Whether engineering for a club, concert hall or stadium concert, one must first understand the components of the PA system, the monitoring systems and signal flow. Live consoles, crossovers, power amplifiers and loudspeakers are discussed in this module. Additionally, live workshops simulate concert situations to help illustrate cabling, power requirements, fault finding methods, etc.

• Advanced MIDI & Sequencing

After an initial introduction to the MIDI protocol and hardware, students undertake a progressive range of exercises using industry-standard programming software, synthesisers and samplers.

• Electronics

These lectures are designed to give students a basic understanding of electronic principles with one objective being the understanding of common audio engineering terminology. Electronic principles such as resistance, capacitance and induction are explored. Additional topics include tape magnetism and machine calibration as well as the use of test equipment.

• Broadcast Theory

An audio engineer's role in broadcast requires specialist knowledge of specific equipment, production methods and teamwork. Topics include broadcasting regulations, rudimentary wave propagation theory and programming.

• Synchronization

This section covers standard tape machine, sequencer and other hardware synchronisation using SMPTE and MIDI timecode and other propriety systems including those which facilitate mixing console automation.

Note: The sections outlined above do not exist as separate modules within the course and do not necessarily reflect the order in which these subjects are taught.

Assessment method

Practical:

• students submit a number of prescribed practical exercises throughout the course
• students undertake a substantial recording project with musicians of their choice, within the guidelines set by the college
• students sit a final practical 'in-studio' examination

Theoretical:

• students sit theoretical progress examination at regular intervals over the duration of the course
• students submit a written diploma assignment on a subject of the student's choice (subjecs must be approved by SAE Academic Staff)
• students sit a final theory examination

who is this course for?

Graduates of the SAE Audio Engineering Diploma are able to operate a wide range of professional industry standard equipment, studio effects processors, operate analogue and digital consoles and hard disc recording systems. Graduates will also learn mixdown techniques, studio procedures, production techniques, basic studio acoustics and business. Graduates that have gained this qualification have recorded and mixed several music productions, completed a comprehensive post production project, programmed MIDI arrangements and worked extensively with ProTools and other digital editing systems.

This course is ideal for candidates who:

• pursue an occupation in the field of professional audio
• artists who wish to record and producer their own music
• want to start their own business or company related to professional audio