Course Title: Mix live audio

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2020

Course Code: VART6343C

Course Title: Mix live audio

School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5378 - Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production)

Course Contact: Rebekha Naim

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 99254815

Course Contact Email: svdsc.mac@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

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

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to mix audio for live performance. As such it builds on other units dealing with the set-up and operation of basic audio equipment. 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 unit defines a minimum standard for the mixing of live audio. This unit will set-up essential approaches to you to develop their own skills.

This course includes a WIL experience in which your knowledge and skills will be applied and assessed in a workplace context.

As part of this course you are required to undertake approximately 8 hours of learning/assessment in an industry area agreed to through consultation with staff, gaining invaluable experience and industry contacts.

Workplace Assessment Requirements
An agreement including schedule and relevant insurance documentation is required to be completed before commencing each assessment placement. In the case where a placement ends early, please refer to 6. Early Termination of Placements in the Work Integrated Learning Procedure.


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 acquire the essential approaches and skills for live sound production and operation of associated equipment.


Details of Learning Activities

 The integration of work based learning and academic learning will allow you to solve authentic industry problems or address real issues faced in organisations. An agreement including schedule and relevant insurance documentation is required to be completed before commencing each placement (local and international). International placements must be registered and processed through RMIT Education Abroad. In the case where a placement ends early, please refer to 6. Early Termination of Placements in the Work Integrated Learning Procedure.

This is the designated Work Integrated Learning (WIL) course for [VART6343C] [Mix Live Audio]. This course includes a WIL experience in which your knowledge and skills will be applied and assessed in a workplace context and where feedback from industry and/or community is integral to your experience.

Details of Learning Activities 

In class learning activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Class-based group and individual training, discussion & demonstrations
  • Hands-on practical activities in small groups
  • Location/venue exposure to skill application and development

 Out of class learning activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Reading of provided notes/excerpts of industry publications & online links
  • Blogs

 


Teaching Schedule

Please Note: While all course content in this schedule will be covered, the weekly order may change depending on class needs and availability of speakers and resources.

  MOST CLASSES FEATURE ASSESSMENT !!!

Class 1

SURVIVAL GUIDE + Overview

Essential planning documents

in-class assessment of Line-List completion

Class 2

TUNING PART A

Small group Graphic Tuning 

+ Gain structure / desk operation

QUIZ 1

Class 3

TUNING PART B

Intro to FOH w/ Sub & monitor tuning – small team set-up with role swap, 

+ Analog Patch 

+ Multicore 

+ QUIZ 1

Class 4

DIGITAL MIXERS A

A+H QU24

+ Presonus Studio Live

+ Analog FOH Patch 

+ QUIZ 2

Class 5

DIGITAL MIXERS continued

A+H QU24

+ Presonus Studio Live

+ Analog FOH Patch

+ QUIZ 3

Class 6

MIXERS B

Analog FOH Patch + Mix

+ X32 Mix + X32 Edit  + WiFi example

+ QUIZ 3

Class 7

MIXERS B continued

Analog FOH Patch + Mix

+ X32 Mix + X32 Edit  + WiFi example

+ QUIZ 3

Class 8

MICING SYSTEMS

RMIT Live Kit

+ Alternative Microphone clamps systems, DI options, Triggers 

Class 9

PASSIVE SYSTEM COMPONENTS

3-Phase Power/distro 

Passive 3-way system - amps, processor + control pc, NL4's

QU24 + Stage Rack + D-Snake

Class 10

VENUE WORKSHOP @ Tote


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist

expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:

 

The Learning Lab

https://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-


Overview of Assessment

Assessment tasks include practical exercises in cable repair & maintenance and microphone-handling , setting up and tuning a speaker system, audio mixing and operating live audio production software and produciton of live sound reinforcement.


Assessment Tasks

The details on these assessments and the grading criteria for this competency can be found on the course Canvas site. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course and will include a range of practical and theory components. Full assessment briefs will be provided and can be found on Canvas.

This is a Vocational Education and Training qualification and is assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard required 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.

 

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

 

ASSESSMENTS:

  1. Line List (due week 1, semester 1, 2020) 

    You will complete an example document to reflect typical planning and set-up for a show – this list shall be derived from the contents of the provided handout "MIX LIVE AUDIO Survival Guide" and completed within the Class and checked by your teacher when complete.
  2. Tuning and Gain Structure (due week 2, semester 1, 2020) 

    Each student is required to demonstrate practical ability to Tune a speaker using voice w/ handheld dynamic mic eg:SM58 and a Graphic EQ - within this exercise  students wil achieve the following steps

    • Ensure cabling is in-place
    • Power-up desk & required equipment (EQ & Speaker)
    • must establish Gain via pfl metering and optional monitoring (Headphones)
    • Using Aux send (Pre-Fader) - control the signal to supply speaker to achieve gain-before-feedback + a pleasing tone.
    • Using Graphic EQ - resolve tonal problems and feedback frequency.
    • Task is complete with Unity Gain is achieved

  3. Cable Handling (due week 2, semester 1, 2020)

    Each student is required to demonstrate practical ability to roll to industry accepted standard both a XLR and Multicore cable.


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

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