November 2004, Issue #34
Audio Engineering
Most people take the sounds we hear every day for granted. But it may surprise you to learn that the creation of audio is a unique endeavor that blends both art and science. Did you ever stop to think how they created the sounds in a video game, or in a movie, TV show, on the Internet or at a concert? There are literally thousands of different jobs available in this field that are as rewarding as they are challenging.
Audio engineering can be a 1 year, 2 year, undergraduate or graduate program. The program may be taught under a music, science or electrical engineering department. Programs that teach the fundamentals of audio, music and technology as well as offer studio time, a chance to record live musicians and internship opportunities are the most comprehensive and the most valuable.
Audio engineering is a very diverse field. With technologies similar to the iPod and the onslaught of computer applications to record your own music, the opportunities for technicians and engineers are abundant. Engineers may design complex sound systems but technicians are also required to implement the design. No matter how long you want to stay in school, audio engineering has a place for you. If you love music, are willing to work hard, develop excellent problem solving skills, and get the necessary real-world experience, audio engineering may be a great career for you.
Elizabeth works for a sound reinforcement company. She specifies the type of system that will be needed for a particular venue, arranges for the crew to set it up. And then mixes the sound for the concert for major artists around the world.
Ron is a mastering engineer. He balances the mix and makes final adjustments to the finished audio recording. Then he prepares the final product to be delivered to the Duplication Company before it is finally released on CD.
As an audio engineer, you may...
- work at a digital audio workstation and program sounds to make hit CDs of your favorite artist;
- edit sound cues in a film postproduction studio;
- perform groundbreaking research on computational acoustics, environmental acoustics and hydroacoustics;
- use images produces by sound waves to probe the human body and test materials for industry.
Careers
Career avenues in professional audio include industrial and military applications, communications, medical research and forensic science.
- Recording engineers work in a studio environment and listen and create the final audio mix of music CDs.
- Production audio engineers work in film and television. They record and edit sound, adding additional dialog, music and sound effects.
- Sound engineers set up and operate sound reinforcement systems that include speakers and a mixing console in live concert situations, adjusting and balancing volume, tuning treble and bass.
- Acousticians works to ensure sound within a structure such as an auditorium, public airport, shopping malls, or restaurants is designed with consideration to ambient qualities.
There are many career choices in the field of Audio Engineering. Perhaps you are a musician, are interested in electronics and sound, or like the idea of working with people who produce and perform in the many fields of entertainment. You will find challenging and fulfilling work in audio engineering.
Feature Links
For more information about audio engineering visit the Audio Engineering Society website at http://www.aes.org/education/.
