Course Title: Mix live audio

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2021

Course Code: VART6343C

Course Title: Mix live audio

School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context

Campus: City Campus

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

Course Contact: Rebekha Naim

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4849

Course Contact Email: rebekha.naim@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher: Greg Long

Email: greg.long@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 will occur in class delivery and project work. Some external project completion will be required out of class, including:

  • class exercises 
  • analysis/critique of relevant reading material 
  • design activities or projects 
  • class presentations 
  • group discussion 
  • research 
  • independent project-based work 
  • ‘workshopping’ of student projects including peer/lecturer feedback 


Teaching Schedule

Class

Schedule of Planned activities and assessment (Subject to change)

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                                          


Hurdle task

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                                          


Hurdle Task

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 #1 of 3

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

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

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 Task 2 Conducted

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 Task 2 Conducted

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 Task 2 Conducted

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

15

Introduction to Digital mixing consoles - ALL STUDENTS

·       Basic digital audio theory

·       Preparation and discussion for week 3 submission. 

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

16

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

17

Basic Navigation of a digital consoles

·       Signal Inputs

·       Compressors & Gates

·       EQ for Musical Instruments

·       Tone, Colour, Frequency, Reverberation and Special FX

18

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

19

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

20

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

21

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

Overview of MLA Large PA

22

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

Overview of MLA Large PA

23

Practice for Assessment #3

24

Practice for Assessment #3

25

Practice for Assessment #3

26

Practice for Assessment #3

27

Assessment #3 Conducted

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

28

Assessment #3 Conducted

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

29

Assessment #3 Conducted

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

30

Assessment #3 Conducted

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



Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

You are advised to look at myRMIT for ongoing updated information.

It is recommended that you bring materials to classes to make notes, for example;

a pen and notepaper or a laptop computer. You will need to have either a USB thumb drive or a USB/Thunderbolt Hard drive (or both) to store and manage your media. Your teacher will advise you what to get when classes commence.

The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:

The learning Lab
www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops


Overview of Assessment

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


Assessment Tasks

Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.  

To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task. 
 
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates

Assessment Task 1: Mix Live Audio Knowledge Test 

Assessment Task 2: Document and Mix Live Audio

Assessment Task 3: Mix Live Audio  


Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are: 

CA: Competency Achieved 
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 mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.  

Other Information

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. 


Information about your studies: 

You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc. 

 https://www.rmit.edu.au/students 


Assessment: 

Information on assessment including Special consideration, Adjustments to assessment, (eg. applying for an extension of time): 

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment 


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. 

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/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.   

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

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit

Course Overview: Access Course Overview