51A Studio Recording 1

Class Description

Introduction to fundamental concepts and techniques of mixing boards, amplifiers, microphones, compressors, digital signal processors and their application to both live and studio sound recording techniques. Basic introduction to computer-based recording with Avid Pro Tools. Microphone placement, physics of sound as it relates to recording, sound reinforcement and studio setup techniques. Learn how to operate the premier Studio A recording facility at Foothill College. This studio features a Pro Tools HDX system, Avid S6 w/moving faders and a great microphone collection. In addition to our class time together, you will be able to book private sessions in Studio A to work on your own projects.(including weekdays and weekends) The studio has gorgeous acoustics and is large enough to accommodate a full orchestra. The main room is famous for getting huge drum sounds. We will go through the entire process of producing an album, with hands on experience for every stage:

• Pre-production
• Recording basic rhythm tracks
• Setting up headphone mixes
• Recording Instruments
• Recording Vocals
• Overdubbing
• Mixing
• Mastering
• Distribution

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• Interpret the specifications of mixing boards, microphones, and signal processors.
• Memorize and explain the syntax of the audio reinforcement and recording field.
• Discuss the implementation of sound reinforcement devices into the microphone/mixing board/amplification/speaker matrix.
• Design a sound reinforcement system based on specifications of the audio devices available.
• Construct, configure and operate a sound reinforcement system.
• Describe and discuss the basic principles of acoustics and the physics of sound.
• Discuss, compare and contrast cross-cultural sound reinforcement techniques.

Course Outline

• Study and analysis of sound reinforcement equipment specifications.
  • 24/8 mixing consoles
  • Condenser and dynamic microphones
  • Compression, reverberation and chorus analog signal processing
  • Cultural differences in sound reinforcement techniques
• Design and construction of sound reinforcement systems
  • Connections between microphones and mixing boards using gain and equalization as a defining parameters
  • Amplifiers and reinforcement speaker configurations for optimum room acoustics
  • Microphone placement and direct impedance connections for acoustic and electric musical instruments
  • Cubmix groups and monitor mixing/amplification
• Study and analysis of basic room acoustics and the physics of sound
  • Analyzing room acoustics in both large and small scale environments
  • Equalization settings and applications based on basic physical principles of sound
  • Virtual and synthesized early reflection matrices

Special Facilities and/or Equipment

A. When taught on campus:

• 24/8 analog and digital mixing console.
• Condenser and dynamic microphone.
• 5 foot, 15 foot, and 30 foot XLR cables for all microphones.
• Analog signal processors.
• Microphone stands with boom arms for all microphones.

B. When taught via Foothill Global Access:

• On-going access to computer with Email software and capabilities.
• Email address.
• Java-script-enabled internet browsing software.

Methods of Evaluation

• Written assignments that analyze, compare and contrast sound reinforcement device specifications, and cultural sound reinforcement considerations
• Designing and assembling a sound reinforcement system for both a large and small acoustic environment
• Tests on room acoustics, sound reinforcement syntax and basic physics of sound

Method of Instruction

• Lecture presentations that demonstrate fundamental concepts of audio recording equipment and engineering techniques.
• Classroom discussions that explore technical specifications and applications of analog and digital audio equipment including mixing consoles, microphones and signal processors.
• Group presentations followed by in-class discussion and evaluation.

Lab Content

Lab content includes topics such as:

• Microphone selection and placement
• Gain settings
• Monitor system setup
• Amplification calculations based on room size, etc.
• Other items may include subjects such as number of plug ins per insert track, bus assignments for efficient recording operation, and mastering compression settings.

Required Reading, Writing and Outside of Class Assignments

• LinkedIn Learning
  • Available free through public libraries
• Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software
• No Required textbook
• Written critiques and analyses of audio production projects including albums, soundtracks, television, video games and Internet multi-media
• Written summaries documenting technical and artistic elements for corresponding submitted assignments and audio projects
• Written proposals, session logs, learning outcomes and reflections supporting submitted musical works and final master recordings