Course Title: Manage audio input sources

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2020

Course Code: VART6414C

Course Title: Manage audio input sources

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: 30

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 select and manage audio input sources and the audio signals these devices create.  This unit goes beyond the general knowledge and use of microphones and applies to those technicians who create and implement complex microphone plots.  As such it requires a detailed knowledge of microphone and input source technology.

   


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUASOU402 Manage audio input sources

Element:

1. Organise input sources

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Determine audio requirements and timelines in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation 1.2 Assess venues to determine input source options based on acoustic analyses that take physical limitations into account 1.3 Take acoustic sources of audio into account when identifying preferred microphone placement 1.4 Clarify the backline needs of musical groups as required and organise microphones and other input sources accordingly 1.5 Keep up-to-date with developments in audio technology to ensure the most appropriate selection of microphones and the best approach to audio operations 1.6 Reach agreement on placement and organisation of microphones and other audio input sources prior to technical run-throughs or rehearsals

Element:

2. Maximise gain on stage

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Place and connect microphones in desired locations using safe work practices 2.2 Position microphones appropriately to achieve required gain 2.3 Increase gain before feedback through effective use of equalisation options and effects equipment

Element:

3. Manage inputs

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Prepare and implement appropriate microphone plots 3.2 Patch microphone signals to audio mixing desk, including multiple signals as required 3.3 Prepare and maintain an input signal failure plan 3.4 Test input sources, identify problems promptly and take appropriate action to rectify 3.5 In consultation with relevant personnel, evaluate quality of audio set-up and note areas for future improvement

Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this program you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge and application of different types of microphone and their applications, including different audio pick up patterns, microphone behaviour in different environments, acoustic consequences of signal phase problems and the use of phantom power 
  • Apply microphone requirements for different types of environments, including live sound, studio recording and live broadcast
  • Demonstrate techniques for preparation of a microphone plot, including key elements and relevant issues for consideration
  • Demonstrate techniques for preparation of an input signal failure plan, including key elements and issues for consideration
  • Demonstrate techniques for management of diverse input signal types, including limitations
     


Details of Learning Activities

Learning activities for this course include:

  • Class tutorials/ lectures
  • Studio practical classes
  • Simulated workplace activities
  • Comparative listening exercises
  • Research


Teaching Schedule

WEEK CLASS CONTENT (subject to change)  
CLASS 1

Introduction to course and expectations
Explanation of assessments
Cable rolling practice/mic stand operating procedures
Introduction to microphone operating principles

 
CLASS 2

DYNAMIC MICS

Cable rolling practice
More Operating Principles
Set-up Procedures


 
CLASS 3

CONDENSER MICS

Polar Patterns

 


 
CLASS 4 Microphone Specifications



 
CLASS 5 Specialist Microphones

 

 
CLASS 6 Microphone Applications


 
CLASS 7 Stereo Microphone Techniques


 
CLASS 8 Listening Exercises and Microphone Comparisons
 


 
CLASS 9 Revision



 
CLASS 10 Final Assessment begins



 

 

 

Week 12-14

 

 

Studio Prac 2 Acoustic Recordings

  

Week 14

 Week 14 -18

 

Work on Assessment 2

 

Manage Audio Input Sources assessment work

 

  

 

 

Please note: While your teacher will cover all the material in this schedule, the weekly order is subject to change depending on class needs and availability of speakers and resources.

 

 

 

 

 

  

 


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

Course assessment tasks include studio practicals testing of underpinning knowledge.


Assessment Tasks

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:

Assessment 1: Live Audio Input Requirements (due 29th May 2020)

Completing this project allows you to demonstrate how to identify the requirements for sound input and production during a live performance or production. You need to identify the audio input and production requirements for two performances or productions and create detailed microphone and sound source input plans for addressing the requirements.   You will submit your information collection, analysis and resulting plans as a portfolio of evidence with a detailed reference list.   

Assessment 2: Manage Audio Input Sources (due 12th June 2020)

Completing this project allows you to demonstrate how to identify the requirements for sound input and production during a live performance or production. You must implement and evaluate audio input management for two (2) live performances or productions during the technical run-throughs OR rehearsals.  

 

 


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