Diploma in Audio Engineering

Program Content

Computer Fundamentals and Graphics

An introduction to computer operating systems, basic troubleshooting, software installation and maintenance, internet and intranet procedures.

Main Topics:
Hardware, software, interfaces, system hierarchy, Mac vs PC, networking, protocols, data sharing, internet, digital image processing basics, import/export, photo-retouching, scanning, filters & plug-ins, colour palettes.

Introduction to Recording

This module demonstrates how to operate a basic recording studio and develops an understanding of the recording and production process.

Main Topics
Gain structure, reading basic schematic diagrams, multitrack studio signal flow, analogue console operation, basic recording techniques.

Digital Theory

This module provides a rudimentary understanding of computer-based digital recording and video systems.

Main Topics
Digital theory, using digital recording media, introduction to hard disc recording and editing, digital audio formats, digital video editing, sampling, and MIDI.

Web Design

Students will be able to create a simple homepage and will study site management, FTP functions and basic web animation.

Main Topics
HTML and basic web page design, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Flash, introduction to basic 3D design, textures and keyframe animation.

Sound Design

Focuses on the principals of sound, how the ear works, decibel, introduction to recording techniques and basic signal flow.

Main Topics
Fundamentals of Sound, The Ear and Hearing, Frequency Analysis, Mix Analysis, The Decibel.

Digital Audio

This subject introduces the computer operating system. The digital recording process is then introduced and provides the foundation in understanding computer based (hard disk) digital recording systems. The Digidesign ProTools software program is introduced.

Main Topics

Digital Theory, ProTools Software and Operation, Manipulation and Editing of Digital Audio.

Microphones

The key to capturing a sound faithfully is understanding microphones and their operation. Students are given an insight with the professional application of microphones within the studio.

Main Topics

Microphone Types, Microphone Polar Patterns, Microphone Power Supplies, Fundamental Microphone Techniques.

Dynamics

SAE Institute provides you with the correct methods and tools in this critical area. This includes fundamental theory and operation of dynamic processor types.

Main Topics

Compression Theory, Compressor Operation, Limiting, Gating

Digital Effects

We guide you through the fundamental theory and operation of a wide range of digital effect processor types. Professional application of digital effects is the key to a commercial product.

Main Topics

Reverberation, Delaying, Chorusing, Flanging, Phasing, Pitch Shifting and Harmonizing,Psycho Acoustic Enhancement.

Audio Electronics

Knowledge of the fundamentals of electronics are essential in the principles of audio technology. We introduce this fundamental theory while keeping a clear focus on sound recording equipment and control surface interfaces.

Main Topics

Cables and Connectors, Basic Electronics, Understanding Specifications, Decibel, Grounding Practice, Single Phase Power Supply Conventions, Working with Three Phase, Safety Systems and Rules.

Signal Flow

Every working sound engineer must be fluent in the practice of system interconnection. This includes studio system signal flow and is introduced with an emphasis on the importance of achieving the correct signal gain structure in the recording studio and mix down process.

Main Topics

Recording Process and Strategy, Project Recording Studio, Advanced ProTools operation.

MIDI and Sampling

This subject introduces the creative power of MIDI and Sampling. The processes and production of producing musical works, beats and loops are delivered in depth. Logic and EXS Sampler software are examined in depth. Fundamental synthesizer technology is incorporated.

Main Topics

MIDI Theory, MIDI/Sampling Music System Setup and Signal Flow, Sequencing/Sampling Software and Operation, Manipulation and Editing of Digital Audio Samples, Beats, Loops and MIDI data.

Live Sound

Focus on live sound system design including signal flow of vocal to full concert sound reinforcement systems, loudspeaker placement, sound system tuning and fault finding. For safety and audio quality, understanding system power supply fundamentals could mean the difference between life and death.

Main Topics

Loudspeakers and Crossovers, Vocal PA Systems, Concert FOH Systems, Stage Monitor Systems, Power Distribution, System Set-up, Systems Operation and Pack-Down.

Audio Equipment

Regular maintenance ensures that equipment performs at its optimum. We investigate maintenance activities for professional audio equipment. Main Subjects: Operating levels, Electronic alignment, System interconnection

Studio Equipment

The tools of trade used by audio engineers are varied. We examine the key components found in the professional recording studio.

Main Topics

Audio Console Features, Effects Processing, Dynamic Processing, Tape Machines, Noise Reduction, Equalizers, Recording Studio Outboard Effects

Digital Audio Editing

Increasingly available digital audio technology has revolutionized sound assembly. We systematically introduce hardware and software used in the virtual studio environment. Practical assignments are tailored towards developing editing and assembly skills.

Main Topics

File Formats, ProTools, Cubase SX, Logic Pro, System Requirements, System Operational Techniques, Software Plug in Modules, Digital Signal Processing

Digital Audio Technology

Used throughout professional audio, digital technology has changed the work process of the professional engineer. You will investigate how this technology was developed and apply it.

Main Topics

Digital Recording Studio, Computer Operation, Advanced MIDI Sequencing and Sampling, Hard Disc Recording Theory and Techniques, Digital Hardware

Fundamental Digital Video Techniques

Understanding the workflow and signal flow of digital film production from camera to post production and editing.

Main Topics

Working with cameras, understanding the video workflow, basic video editing and capturing techniques.

Audio Post Production

Many audio engineers work with sound for motion picture and video production. The assembly techniques and technology is explained and supported with practical post production projects.

Main Topics

Film Sound, Location Sound, Film/video Signal Flow, Synchronisation, On Line/Off Line Editing

Acoustics

This subject focuses on basic acoustic principles & design, psycho acoustics, working in an acoustic environment and budgeting a studio. Various studio designs are also discussed.

Main Topics

Acoustic Fundamentals , Studio Design, Psycho Acoustic Analysis

Advandced Studio Studies

Focuses on the new production techniques, commercial music arrangement basics, mixing for advertising, preparation of a 2 track master, studio etiquette and more.

Main Topics

Mix down and Session Procedure, Commercial Production, Automated Mix down Techniques

Musicianship and Theory Studies

Audio engineers and producers work in close proximity to musicians. Thus, it is important for them to communicate effectively and ‘speak the language’ of musicians. This subject topic provides graded opportunities for students to develop specifics of music notation and associated terminology.

Main Topics

Notation, Keys and Chords, Chart and Score Reading, Aural Training

Mastering

A commercial recording relies on careful attention after completion at the recording studio. Understanding this process is vital for the working sound engineer.

Main Topics

Master Take Editing, Master Formats, Signal Processing Techniques, Duplication Process, Advanced Digital Theory, Sampling and Conversion, Master Take Editing, Mastering Formats, Mastering Signal Processing Techniques, Compact Disc Compilation, Red Book-Green Book- Orange Book Codes, Mastering for Audio, Mastering for DVD.