Assessment 1
A portfolio of 2 – 4 high-quality recordings demonstrating the use of a range of studio recording hardware and associated software, with a supporting evaluation detailing the processes and techniques undertaken [LOs 1 and 2] 50%

Assessment 2
A portfolio of 2 – 4 high-quality mixes comprising of tracks recorded for Assessment 1, supported by justification of your audio processing decisions and the mixing techniques you have utilised [LOs 3 and 4] 50%

Formative assessment:
Ongoing studio discussions of work-in-progress, demonstrating willingness to approach new areas and techniques in order to expand knowledge and understanding of equipment and techniques.

This module takes the form of a series of practical sessions where you will explore sound recording hardware and related software in a studio environment. You will be able to familiarise yourself with a range of equipment and techniques, and you will be guided in the development of an understanding of their suitability for different purposes. You will build on the skills gained from work-based activities and knowledge gained in other modules, to investigate multi -track recording on Digital Audio Workstations. You will be introduced to principles of computer-based recording and mixing using a variety of industry based audio applications.

The module seeks to familiarise you with the principles of sound propagation and the underpinning theory of the conversion of acoustic energy into electrical voltage. These fundamentals will allow you to make informed choices regarding the selection and placement of microphones during recording sessions.

As you become more confident you will consider choice of equipment and how the elements are integrated to achieve a functional recording environment. You will be able to experiment with the application of studio hardware, microphones, dynamic and effects processor techniques through a series of practical studio based sessions.

Practical elements of the module will also include:
• Equipment testing
• Microphone techniques
• Production techniques

You will be introduced to advanced principals of computer based stereo mixing using a variety of industry based audio applications.

Technical skills instruction and workshops
Equipment demonstrations
Group tutorials with formative feedback
Individual tutorials and portfolio evaluation

Ballou G. (2015) Handbook for Sound Engineers. Woburn: Focal Press
Bartlett B & J. (2013) Practical Recording Techniques. 4th Ed. Burlington: Focal Press
Huber D. & Runstein, R. (2013) Modern Recording Techniques. Burlington: Focal Press
Owsinski, B. (2013) The Recording Engineer's Handbook
Rumsey F. & McCormick T. (2012) Sound and Recording, An Introduction. Oxford: Focal Press

Whilst we are recommending the core reading list detailed here as essential to develop your knowledge and understanding of the subject, there may be an additional core list in your Module Handbook which will be specific and localised to the equipment and software that is for use in your college

Staffordshire University Online Resources
Academic Skills Guides: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/learning_support/academic_skills/
Harvard Referencing Guide: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/learning_support/refzone/harvard/index.jsp

Suitable recording hardware, software and editing package (e.g. Cubase SX/VST)

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources. University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp

1. DEMONSTRATE, THROUGH WORK BASED CONTENTS, AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE ESSENTIAL FEATURES OF HIGH QUALITY, MULTITRACK AUDIO RECORDINGS, AND BE ABLE TO SPECIFIY AND SELECT APPROPRIATE HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE.
[Knowledge and Understanding]

2. USE A RANGE OF APPROPRIATE TESTING METHODS TO ANALYSE AND EVALUATE THE OPERATION AND UNDERPINNING THEORY RELATING TO EQUIPMENT USED IN THE RECORDING PROCESS.
[Analysis]

3. PRODUCE HIGH QUALITY MULTITRACK AUDIO RECORDINGS AND STEREO MIXES THAT DEMONSTRATE APPROPRIATE AND CREATIVE USE OF DYNAMICS PROCESSORS, MULTI-EFFECTS AND AUTOMATION. [Application]

4.ANALYSE THE FUNDAMENTALS OF CREATING PROFESSIONAL MIXES AND BE ABLE TO JUSTIFY MIXING DECISIONS AND PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES IN RESPONSE TO CREATIVE CHALLENGES. Analysis
[Problem Solving]