An Introduction of Sound Engineering
Sound engineering is a vast field that covers all the aspects of music and sound. Sound engineers are basically responsible for manipulating, producing, and presenting sound, and their work is inarguably vital in the music industry. It is an intricate and technical profession that requires expertise and experience to combine both art and a gamut of physics involved in the process.
What Is Sound Engineering?
Sound engineering, also often termed audio engineering, refers to the art of reproducing, mixing, and reinforcing sound. Other than that, audio engineering is also involved in producing music, live performances, and films. Audio engineers usually work on the technical side of sound recording, which involves setting levels, placing the microphones, and making sure the respective audience receive good sound. They handle entire technical side involving performances and Audio Production.
Nowadays, sound engineering is increasingly considered an artistic profession where art and science both are utilized to produce sounds for movies, music, radio, television, sporting events and video games. Sound engineering also covers soundcheck and live audio mixing processes with the help of an audio reinforcement system used during concerts, sports events, and theatres.
Different Types of Sound Engineering
Sound engineering employed in music can be divided into two broad categories: live and studio engineering. In live engineering, the engineer’s main job is to create a smooth synergy between the sound systems, all the technologies used at an event, and the artist. Engineers who are handed this task are commonly referred to as front-of-house engineers. Studio engineering, on the other hand, is concerned with capturing an outstanding performance in a controlled environment. A studio engineer’s main job is to produce seamless sound in the studio, getting a perfect performance out of a musician and capturing it.
During commercial audio production, the four distinct steps that take place are recording, editing, mixing, and mastering. As a result, in the whole production process, there are other types of audio engineers who are known for their particular roles and expertise. Some of the other common sound engineering types include:
- Systems engineering
- Research and development audio engineer
- Wireless microphone engineering
- Game sound designer
- Monitor engineer
How to Become A Sound Engineer?
Sound engineers can have a varied educational background. If you have previously studied courses on television, radio, performing arts, broadcasting, music, audio, or electrical engineering, then you can make a promising career as a sound engineer. Various countries have the best sound engineering colleges that offer students to take on sound engineering courses.