WHAT AN AUDIO ENGINEER DOES

AUDIO ENGINEERING CAREERS IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS

An audio engineer is someone with experience and training in the production and manipulation of sound through mechanical (analog) or digital means.  The audio engineer, sometimes designated as a sound engineer or recording engineer is essential to the recording process, whether it be music, voice over or live sound.

Audio engineers are generally familiar with the design, installation and/or operation of sound recording, sound reinforcement or sound broadcasting equipment.  In the recording studio environment, the audio engineer is the person recording, editing, manipulating, mixing and/or mastering sound by technical means in order to realize the artist's or record producer's creative vision.

While usually associated with music production, an audio engineer may be involved in dealing with sound for a wide range of applications, including post-production for video and film, live sound reinforcement, advertising, multimedia and broadcasting.  When referring to video games, the audio engineer may also be a computer programmer.

Some well know sound engineers include: Eddie Karmer, Phil Ramone, Steve Albini, Roger Nichols, Bill Porter, Al Schmitt and George Massenburg.

Audio engineers operate mixing consoles, microphones, signal processors, tape machines, digital audio workstations, sequencing software and speaker systems.  Commonly, an audio engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of a sound recording session or other audio production, and works together with a record producer or director, although the engineer's role may also be integrated with that of the producer.

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL

I enrolled in the Recording Connection in my home town of Seattle, Washington.  I am in the studio about twice a week for a total of between 18-25 hours a week.  I would go more, but I work a full-time job.  What I like about the program is the opportunity to expand upon my somewhat limited experience and become familiar, and eventually comfortable, on professional recording equipment in a real-world professional working environment.  What I'm now learning is how to communicate with the performer in a manner that is condusive to creating an atmosphere that leads to better performances.  I'm learning Pro Tools too.  The Recording Connection Program really works.



Jason King
Recording Student
Seattle, Washington

STUDENT SUCCESS STORY

Los Angeles Recording Connection graduate Preston Boebel initially thought we were too good to be true.  He quickly changed his mind when he visited Clear Lake Audio recording studios for his interview with audio engineer and studio owner, Brian Levi.   He knew from that moment what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.  Upon graduation, he was hired by Clear Lake Audio as an assistant engineer and within a year he'd worked his way up to Chief Engineer.  He has worked as the audio engineer on projects for White Snake, Quiet Riot, Dishwalla, Usher and many more.  He's been the music producer on many jazz, rock, pop, blues and hip hop tracks.  He's even worked on movie sound tracks including "Doom."   Preston is the perfect example of what it takes to make it in the music business.  The Recording Connection gave him the SAME OPPORTUNITY we give every student who takes our course--HE MADE SOMETHING OF THE OPPORTUNITY.  For the full Preston story, click here.

Preston Boebel
Recording Connection Graduate
Los Angeles, California