Unit description

Builds on the learning outcomes of the pre requisite unit MUS00497 and introduces students to the physics of sound reproduction and basic electrical engineering concepts associated with analog and digital sound reproduction. Additionally, the unit provides an introduction to the recording studio environment focusing on recording techniques and practices in both the digital workstation and the live concert performance environment.

Unit content

Topic 1: Basic physics of sound
Topic 2: Perception of sound
Topic 3: Basic electronic theory
Topic 4: Electronic devices
Topic 5: OH&S issues relating to sound levels and electricity
Topic 6: Studio operation
Topic 7: Electricity, industry practices and safety precautions
Topic 8: Sound system overview Topic 9: The nature of sound
Topic 10: The venue, equipment, personnel, incorporating live concert staging, fold back and front of house
Topic 11: Signal flow and cables and connectors
Topic 12: Transducers, mixers, power amplifiers, equalisers, processors
Topic 13: Equipment connecting standard
Topic 14: Pre-production, set-ups, operation
Topic 15: Microphone choice, placement and techniques, mixing, equalisation, processing
Topic 16: The multi-track recording studio, both analog and digital with MIDI sequencing software integration
Topic 17: Computer operation, information transfer, file management, hard disk recording, audio sound modules, samplers and software plug-ins, CD production, on line storage and retrieval

Learning outcomes


Learning outcomes and graduate attributes

Prescribed texts

Session 1

  • No prescribed texts.
Prescribed texts may change in future study periods.

Teaching and assessment


Teaching method
Lecture on-site 1 hour (12 weeks)
Workshop on-site 1 hour (12 weeks)
Live Sound Portfolio35%
Recording Portfolio40%
Exam: closed book25%



Fee information


Commonwealth Supported courses
Commencing 2014 Commonwealth Supported only. Student contribution band: 1

Fee paying courses

