Course Title: Mix live audio

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2017

Course Code: VART6343C

Course Title: Mix live audio

School: 345T Media and Communication

Campus: City Campus

Program: C4371 - Certificate IV in Live Production and Technical Services

Course Contact: Program Administration

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4815

Course Contact Email: mcvet@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher:

Loki Lockwood

Email: Loki.lockwood@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 140

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

The ability to mix audio for live performances is a crucial skill which is highly valued by employers in the live production, events and audiovisual industries.

With a focus on the basic practical approaches required to work in today’s entry level live sound environment, you will be exposed to a range of preparatory process, audio hardware and interconnectivity standards.

The course defines a minimum standard for the mixing of live audio and it will set-up essential approaches to you to develop your own own skills.

In this course you will learn the skills and knowledge required to mix audio for live performances including conferences, seminars, presentations and music.

Skills in mixing audio are developed through practice and you will learn to work autonomously in a team environment as you take responsibility for creating quality sound for audiences.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUASOU401 Mix live audio

Element:

1. Prepare for live audio mixing

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Review production documentation and confirm scope of audio mixing requirements with relevant personnel

1.2 Ensure that audio equipment is set up and operational in line with production requirements

1.3 Anticipate problems that could arise during shows and plan accordingly

Element:

2. Undertake pre-show operations

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Match interfaces between audio and destination in accordance with level, impedance, phase and frequency

2.2 Line check all inputs and outputs for continuity and patching and route test signals to correct signal paths

2.3 Perform time and phase alignment of audio equipment and adjust as required

2.4 Check that audio levels and controls meet acoustic and dynamic requirements

2.5 Take action to ensure that faults and problems identified during testing are rectified promptly

2.6 Complete audio check and document changes according to organisational requirements

2.7 Operate front of house and monitor consoles during dress rehearsals or sound checks to establish appropriate mix to produce the required technical level, tonal balances and frequency response

2.8 Discuss audio issues with relevant personnel during rehearsals and adjust mix as required

Element:

3. Mix audio sources for live shows

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Manage signal control of level, equalisation and dynamic parameters to achieve a balanced sound mix

3.2 Apply effects according to production requirements

3.3 Produce transitions between sound signals that are technically accurate and produce the required effect

3.4 Ensure that the level of the composite signal is within technical limits and desired dynamic range

3.5 Observe and manage sound pressure levels according to venue requirements and safe noise levels

3.6 Resolve audio operational problems with minimal disruption to performances

Element:

4. Complete post-show operations

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Execute power down and disassemble equipment safely

4.2 Pack and store equipment and accessories according to safety regulations and production requirements

4.3 Clean work environment after use and restore environment to original condition

4.4 Contribute to evaluations of productions and implement recommendations aimed at improving overall effectiveness of audio operations

4.5 Seek feedback from relevant personnel on own work performance and note areas for improvement

Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements. You will be able to create quality sound through:

  • Identifying the various components of a concert sound system
  • 
Using the advanced features of dynamics, EQ and system management

  • Applying your knowledge of technical requirements of a sound system relating to amplifiers, speakers, power and impedance.
  • 
Using digital signal processing (DSP) systems
  • Using digital mixing consoles
  • Using cross-overs and filters in multi band speaker systems


Details of Learning Activities

Learning Activities include

  • Practical Theory
  • Teacher led equipment demonstrations
  • Teacher supplied reading notes
  • Online resources
  • Working in simulated and real world environments


Teaching Schedule

Class

Schedule of Planned activities and assessment (Subject to change)

 

Semester 1

1

Introduction to Radio Theatre includes OH&S

Course overview and introduction

·       Semester One Equipment and Storage

·       Leads and Connectors

·       Cable rolling

·       Common Microphones and DI’s

 

2

       Introduction to analog mixing consoles

·       What is a channel strip?

·       Basic Layout and Signal Flow of a analog console

·       Microphone Pre Amps

·       Phase alignment of microphones

·       Sound waves and frequency

·       Mixing in 3 dimensions.

 

3

Introduction to a basic PA

·       Moving equipment – safety first

·       Overview of the equipment we will use

·       Demonstration and practice of assessment Task #1 (Cable rolling and Microphone setup)

·       Sorting class splits

 

4

Break into smaller work groups

 

Demonstration of a Sound Reinforcement System

·       Patching a basic self powered system including FOH (front of house) and Monitor speakers

·       Channel lists

·       FOH and Monitor speakers

·       Auxiliary Sends

·       Frequency Filters / EQ

·       Controlling Feedback                                          

 

Assessment #1 of 5

Cable Rolling and Microphone Set-up. Individual and Pairs.

 

5

Break into smaller work groups

 

Demonstration of a Sound Reinforcement System

·       Patching a basic self powered system including FOH (front of house) and Monitor speakers

·       Channel lists

·       FOH and Monitor speakers

·       Auxiliary Sends

·       Frequency Filters / EQ

·       Controlling Feedback                                          

 

Assessment #1 of 5

Cable Rolling and Microphone Set-up. Individual and Pairs.

 

6

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

Discussion of Assessment #2 of 5

Stage Plans, Input Lists, and Production Management Skills

(due end of class week 10 of Semester #1)

 

7

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

Discussion of Assessment #2 of 5

Stage Plans, Input Lists, and Production Management Skills

(due end of class week 11 of Semester #1)

 

8

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

 

9

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

 

10

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

Assessment Task 2 Due:

Pre-production portfolio. Comprising Schedule, Stage Plan, Input list, Understanding a Signal Flow Block Diagram.

Preparation and discussion for practical mixing and set up at (Venue to be confirmed)

11

Break into smaller work groups

Setting up and breaking down a system that includes a FOH desk, FOH speakers and monitors where all speakers are self powered. Mixing multiple channels of audio

Assessment Task 2 Due:

Pre-production portfolio. Comprising Schedule, Stage Plan, Input list, Understanding a Signal Flow Block Diagram.

Preparation and discussion for practical mixing and set up at (Venue to be confirmed)

12

Assessment Week 1 - You must attend one of the next 3 weeks.

Assessment #3 of 5 – A Competent mix on an Analogue Desk

You will also be accessed on your ability to set up an analogue PA system, your knowledge of   relevant components in the system. Team work, Stage Layout, Microphones, Basic PA Tuning concepts, Setup, Pack-down. OH&S

13

Assessment Week 3

Assessment #3 of 5 – A Competent mix on an Analogue Desk

You will also be accessed on your ability to set up an analogue PA system, your knowledge of   relevant components in the system. Team work, Stage Layout, Microphones, Basic PA Tuning concepts, Setup, Pack-down. OH&S

14

Assessment Week 4

Assessment #3 of 5 – A Competent mix on an Analogue Desk

You will also be accessed on your ability to set up an analogue PA system, your knowledge of   relevant components in the system. Team work, Stage Layout, Microphones, Basic PA Tuning concepts, Setup, Pack-down. OH&S

 

Semester 2

1

Introduction to Digital mixing consoles - ALL STUDENTS

·       Basic digital audio theory

·       Preparation and discussion for week 3 submission. Assessment #4 of 5 – 40 questions about audio based on semester #1

·       Final preparation and discussion for practical mixing and set up at (Venue to be confirmed)

2

Break into smaller work groups

 

Basic Navigation of a digital consoles

·       Signal Inputs

·       Compressors & Gates

·       EQ for Musical Instruments

·       Tone, Colour, Frequency, Reverberation and Special FX

3

Basic Navigation of a digital consoles

·       Signal Inputs

·       Compressors & Gates

·       EQ for Musical Instruments

·       Tone, Colour, Frequency, Reverberation and Special FX

Assessment #4 of 5 Due   – 40 questions about mix live audio based on semester #1 Due

4

Practical set up using the …….. Hotel with a real band Date TBC - All Students

5

Practical set up using the …….. Hotel with a real band Date TBC - All Students

6

Practical set up using the …….. Hotel with a real band Date TBC - All Students

7

Break into smaller work groups for equipment set-up, practice and pack up.

Overview of MLA Large PA

8

Break into smaller work groups for equipment set-up, practice and pack up.

Overview of MLA Large PA

 

9

Practice for Assessment #5

10

Practice for Assessment #5

11

Practice for Assessment #5

12

Practice for Assessment #5

13

Assessment #5 of 5

Digital PA Set-up. Producing a competent mix. Understanding a monitor set-up

14

Assessment #5 of 5

Digital PA Set-up. Producing a competent mix. Understanding a monitor set-up

15

Assessment #5 of 5

Digital PA Set-up. Producing a competent mix. Understanding a monitor set-up

16

Assessment #5 of 5

Digital PA Set-up. Producing a competent mix. Understanding a monitor set-up


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

Students are encouraged to purchase black and white electrical tape, sharpie pen and a torch.

Optional purchases include Gaffa tape, headphones and a multi tool. 


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course will involve demonstration of practical tasks and testing of your knowledge.


Assessment Tasks

To demonstrate competency in this course you will need to complete the following assessment to a satisfactory standard.
You will receive feedback on all assessment and once you have demonstrated competency, you will receive a grade for the graded Assessment Task (refer to MyRMIT for grading rubric).

Assessment #1 - Cable Rolling and Microphone Set-up

Assessment #2 - Pre-production portfolio.

Assessment #3 - Mix Live Audio on an Analogue PA.

Assessment #4 - Multiple Choice Theory Test

Assessment #5 - Produce a mix on a Digital Console for Front of House and Monitors

 

For further information on the grading system and criteria used, please refer to the course blackboard site.
Grades which apply to courses delivered in accordance with competency-based assessment, but which also use graded assessment:

CHD - Competent with High Distinction
CDI - Competent with Distinction
CC - Competent with Credit
CAG - Competency Achieved - Graded
NYC - Not Yet Competent
DNS - Did Not Submit for Assessment


Assessment Matrix

The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These matrices are available through Program Administration.

Other Information

Please refer to the RMIT student page for extensive information about study support, assessment, extensions, appeals and a range of other matters: http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students

Cover Sheet for Submissions:

You must complete and sign a submission cover sheet for every piece of submitted work, including online submissions.

http://mams.rmit.edu.au/s1llva641yxuz.pdf

Attendance:

Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises

It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.

Assessment Feedback:

You will receive spoken and written feedback on all your work.  Where relevant, this feedback will also include suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy

Student Progress:

Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy designed to assist you in achieving your learning potential.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/acadprogress

Adjustments to Assessment (eg. applying for an extension of time):

If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment satisfactorily by the due date, you can choose to apply for an adjustment to your assessment. RMIT University offers a range of adjustments designed to support you in your studies, including an extension of time to complete the assessment.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/adjustment

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:

RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/academic-integrity

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:

Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.

Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) RCC applies only if you have previously successfully demonstrated competence in a unit of competency, and now require to be reassessed to ensure that the competence is being maintained.

Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer, RPL, or RCC for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit

 

Course Overview: Access Course Overview