Unit 2: Audio Engineering Principles

Aim and purpose

This unit aims to provide knowledge in both analogue and digital audio principles. Learners will know the theory behind audio processing, current practices in interconnection and storage and be able to interpret equipment specifications.

Unit introduction

Sound engineers should be familiar with the equipment they use in the studio and live work. It is important to know the underlying principles of both analogue and digital technology, how equipment is used and what processes audio can go through. This unit is intended for learners who wish to focus upon audio engineering and the more technical aspects of music technology and aims to establish knowledge of the principles of audio systems.

Analogue equipment such as microphones, power amplifiers and loudspeakers play an important role in the audio chain. Analogue circuitry is often favoured for front-end devices such mixing consoles and pre-amps while storage, processing and manipulation of audio is generally done in the digital domain. Digital processing is quick and simple to implement often giving a choice of preset settings. While this is one of the strengths of digital systems, and can improve workflow, it is important to look closely at what is being done by the computer to gain a deeper understanding of the creative and sonic potential. Sound engineers who have experience of working with analogue equipment will understand that this is the best place to start really getting to grips with audio equipment and processing.

The decision as to what equipment is best suited to a particular application is one that requires an engineer to be able to interpret the equipment specifications produced by the manufacturer. Well written specifications help in the decision making process but will require an understanding of a wide range of audio principles if they are to be useful to an engineer when considering sound quality, compatibility and versatility.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this unit a learner should:
1 Know the principles of digital audio
2 Know current practices involved in the application of audio systems
3 Know methods for processing audio
4 Be able to interpret audio equipment specifications.

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