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Sound Recording Technology Course Listings
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This course provides participants with the technical background in audio they will need for effective Multimedia and Web-based use of sound. Topics begin with the fundamental concepts of audio signals, recording and reproduction systems, and proceed to a more in-depth understanding of digital audio recording, signal processing, and data compression. Parameters such as sample rate, bit rate and dither will be linked to sound quality issues of frequency response, noise floor and dynamic range so that informed decisions can be made about sound performance versus data requirements. The course will explore the audio concepts and capabilities unique to Audio Compact Disc, DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD-Rom, MP3 and streaming. Students' projects will integrate audio into Multimedia and/or Web-based products satisfying priorities for sound quality, media effectiveness, user experience and bandwidth constraints.
Pre-Req: 92.131 Calculus I.
78.301 Music, Technology and SocietyCredits: 3
Examines how recording technology has changed music and the relationships of music and society. The course studies and evaluates the application of technology to making music, to music listening, to styles of music, and to music's roles in society, other art forms, and media. The evolving importance of technology in music over the past century is charted through the study of musical examples and through viewing how human values are reflected in this century's timely music. Studies will be based on assigned readings, lectures and discussions, examination of current and historically significant music recordings, motion pictures and media pieces for this artistry, their use of available technology, and their impact on human values and society.
78.305 Survey: Music TechnologyCredits: 3
The use of technology in music listening, performance, analysis, composition, recording and music study will be presented. The dimensions and applications of technology will be discussed as related to aesthetics, the musician's experiences, musical style, and the musical experience. Basic introduction to the technologies of audio recording. Course includes required reading, listening, session participation. Music Majors Only.
Pre-Req: 77.301 Music Business 1.
78.310 Introduction To RecordingCredits: 3
The theory and usage of audio-recording/reproduction components are explored at a basic level and supplemented by hands-on experience. The aesthetics of recording media and their influence on society are discussed in relation to the artistic and commercial functions of the media. Individual research on a subject of interest to the student is required.
Pre-Req: 92.131 Calculus I.
78.350 Video ProductionCredits: 3
An introductory course in the fundamentals of video technology and production; encompassing signal transmission, tape formats, transduction, optical characteristics of lenses and cameras, production equipment and procedures, and post-production equipment and techniques; hands-on experience via video and audio for video projects. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.310 Intro to Recording.
78.360 Critical and Analytical ListeningCredits: 3
The recognition and identification of timbral modifications and spatial characteristics. Aural analysis of historically significant and current music recordings for recording techniques, musicalbalance, performance intensity, sound quality and imaging. Development of critical listening skills and sound evaluation techniques.
Pre-Reqs: 78.310 Intro to Recording and 71.203 Aural Skills 3; Co-Reqs: 78.390 Acoustics & Psychoacoust, 78.410 Recording Prod
78.390 Acoustics & PsychoacousticsCredits: 3
The physical attributes of sound and acoustic measurement; displacement, time, velocity, acceleration, force, energy, resonance, wave shapes and spectral energy distribution are examined for most instruments; acoustic properties of the ear and enclosed environments; acoustic measurements and instruments. The interrelationships and differences of physical acoustics and psychoacoustics are stressed.
Pre-Reqs: 78.310 Intro to Recording, 92.132Calculus II, and 95.101 Introductory Physics; Co-Req: 78.360 Critical Listening
78.410 Recording ProductionCredits: 3
Intermediate audio production. Planning and executing recording sessions which involve a varietyof musical ensembles under diverse recording conditions; live-performance/concert recordings; multi-track recording, overdub, and remix procedures; application of informed musical judgment to the mixing process; and research in recording techniques. Laboratory required. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.310 Intro To Recording; Co-Reqs: 78.360 Critical Listening, and 78.390 Acoustics & Psychoacoust.
78.411 Audio TheoryCredits: 3
Advanced audio theory. An in-depth examination of the principles and operating specifications of the major components of the modern recording studio: mastering and multi-track recorders, mixing consoles, microphones, monitoring systems, and signal processing equipment. Recording projects and technical research. Laboratory required. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.410 Recording Production
78.420 Sound Synthesis 1Credits: 3
Sound synthesis equipment and techniques are studied and supplemented with sound synthesis studio laboratory work. The course will cover practices and principles of analog and digital sound synthesis and their historic origins, related audio equipment and applications, theories of sound samplers and sequencers, and an introduction to MIDI applications in sound synthesis and recording production. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.410 Recording Production
78.421 Sound Synthesis 2Credits: 3
Advanced sound synthesis techniques are studied and supplemented with sound synthesis studio laboratory work. The course will cover MIDI implementation in analog and digital sound synthesis, the historic origins of computer music and electro-acoustic music, live electronic music performance, audio equipment and applications of MIDI-based and functional devices and processors, advanced music production and sound synthesis via MIDI. Permission of Coordinator
and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.420 Sound Synthesis 1
78.430 Computer Applications in MusicCredits: 3
Applications of computers to audio production is emphasized in studies of computer generated and controlled sound sources and devices, algorithmic composition, computer music, digital signal processing, advanced MIDI applications and programming, and computer synchronization of audio and video. Laboratory work required. SRT majors and minors. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
78.440 Multitrack ProductionCredits: 3
24-track recording. Session planning and preparation, tracking process; microphone techniques and applications; incorporating processing; planning the mix and sound stage; MIDI applications, rough mixdown. Recording project required.
Pre-Req: 78.411 Audio Theory
78.441 Advanced Multitrack ProductionCredits: 3
Advanced production techniques; tape machine calibration; automation and final mixdown; digital multitracking; SMPTE applications; premastering and mastering. Recording project required.
78.450 The Recording IndustryCredits: 3
A detailed survey of the many career options of the audio-recording industry: position duties and responsibilities. Guest lecturers from diverse careers in the industry share their experiences, disciplines, and backgrounds. Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.310 Intro to Recording.
78.460 Audio For VisualsCredits: 3
This course is designed to introduce students to the theory and practice of video post-production on non-linear digital editing platforms. These systems include Audio Vision, ProTools, and Sonic Solutions. Students are required to complete audio tracks for several video shorts and will learn about such diverse topics as SMMPTE, word clock, digital sync, DSP, blackburst, genlock, S/P-DIF, AES/EBU, digital recording and mixing, ADR, music beds, cues, FX, Foley recording, and random access theory and techniques. Permission of Coordinator and Chair
Pre-Reqs: 78.350 Video Production, & 78.411 Audio Theory
Hands-on experience in repair and maintenance techniques. Common minor repairs and routine maintenance of recording equipment; test equipment and tools; power supplies, op-amps, and low-noise amplifiers; distortion; analog and digital hardware; and interface considerations. Permission of Coordinator and Chair
Pre-Reqs: 78.411 Audio Theory, 16.211 Fund of Electricity or 16.214 Fund of Sound Recording
An open forum is created for students to undertake research projects of a technical nature and that are directly related to SRT. The course will require constant class participation through discussion of research findings and techniques on projects related to audio equipment and applications; theories of operation and design, human interfacing considerations, hardware and software development, enhancing creative flexibility in sound synthesis and recording production.
Permission of Coordinator and Chair.
Pre-Req: 78.411 Audio Theory
78.493 Internship in SRTCredits: 6
Practical experience in audio-recording under the supervision of a professional firm. At least twenty hours per week for fifteen weeks is spent working at an entry-level position for a firm involved in audio.
Advanced projects developed in consultation with faculty advisor. Typical projects include production of a complete record album, investigation of experimental recording techniques, and original research in recording technology. To be completed in place of 78.493 by students not choosing an internship. Permission of Coordinator and Chair
Individual work under the supervision of a member of the SRT faculty on a topic or area of production approved by the instructor and the Coordinator of SRT. Permission of Coordinator and Chair