Sound Theory 201
Learning Advisor: Ron Bynum
Ron is a writer in California specializing in Humanist topics. He writes a column for a local newspaper, reviews music, studios, and exposes psuedo-science hoaxes as a skepticist.
Ron grew up in a musical family and began singing at the age of 6. Throughout his youth, his sole interest was music, and beginning at age 10 embarked on an orchestral performance journey that
Course Description
Sound Theory 201 is the follow-up course to Sound Theory 101. This course concentrates on the practical aspects of creating a recording. Using knowledge from Sound and Recording 101 or prior experience, you will conduct a Recording session from setup, using instruments, voice, loops or samples (at your discretion) to produce a finished product. This course deals with manipulating audio in a real world, practical situation using analogue and digital signals, software instruments, loops, and where applicable, and available, acoustic instruments and voice.
Course Prerequisites
Sound Theory 101 or skills for:
a) manipulating files
b) locate and load software
c) knowledge of connections for recording (signal path etc)
d) basic knowledge of audio recording
e) desire to create
Course Aims
- Learn to set up a session for Recording Audio
- Record multiple tracks of audio for processing.
- Understand how to set levels for optimal performance
- Learn editing techniques such as comping, crossfading and looping.
- Gain valuable knowledge of punching in for overdubbing vocals or music.
- Manipulate audio using effects processors (Dynamics, EQ & Modulation).
- Mixing multiple tracks down to a Stereo mix for CD's, Tapes, Records
Course Topics
- Setting up a Recording session – creating tracks, connecting equipment
- Finding optimal levels and microphone choice and placement
- Tracking instruments, vox, loops and MIDI
- Inserting effects and comping (composite tracks) for mixdown.
- Mixing down to a stereo mix for duplication
Course Outcomes
On successful completion of the course:
- you will be able to set up a multi-track recording session, set levels and make connections.
- you will be able to successfully record multiple tracks of analogue and digital audio for further processing.
- you will know how to edit multiple tracks of audio, MIDI, and software instruments into a coherent, quality production using effects and proven recording techniques.
- you will be able to mix projects for Mastering, burning to CD, digital files for upload/download for posting and publishing.
Required Resources
- Essential required resources are computer, audio interface, Cuckos Reaper DAW (a free download of a high quality DAW). Loops, software instruments and effects included with Reaper.
- Suggested resources: some type of microphone and an acoustic instrument. Drums, guitar (electric or acoustic) violin etc.
- Desire to learn techniques for successfully recording audio and fostering creativity.