Course Title: Manage audio input sources

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2021

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: John Phillips

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4913

Course Contact Email: john.phillips@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher: Paul Thomas

Email: paul.thomas@rmit.edu.au

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 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

WEEK CLASS CONTENT & ASSESSMENT DETAILS  ASSESSMENT
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 Prinicples
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 theory


Assessment 1 due
 
CLASS 10 Revision Prac



 



Week 12-14

Studio Prac Acoustic Recordings

 Assessment 2 due

Week 14

 Week 14 -16


Studio Prac Drum Kit Recording


 Assessment 3 due



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
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

Course assessment tasks include studio practicals testing of underpinning 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:  Knowledge Questions

Assessment Task 2: Live Audio Input Requirements

Assessment Task 3: Manage Audio Inputs (Major Project)

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