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.