Overview
This introductory unit, utilising industry preferred audio design tools, provides training in recording, mixing and mastering music. Students undertaking this unit will plan and undertake a small recording project that requires them to record live instruments and edit, mix and master audio. Students undertaking this unit via flexible delivery may be required to own some computer based recording equipment and software. Students interested in enrolling in the unit should contact the unit coordinator before enrolling.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
There are no requisites for this unit.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2021
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback - Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student evaluation data
More flexibility with the choice of software
Review assessment tasks with a view on providing more flexibility with submission options
- demonstrate an understanding of current recording technologies and equipment
- demonstrate an ability to design a detailed plan for recording a project
- demonstrate ability to record and manage a recording project from beginning to end.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 40% | |||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 40% | |||
| 3 - Written Assessment - 20% | |||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| 1 - Communication | |||
| 2 - Problem Solving | |||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | |||
| 4 - Information Literacy | |||
| 5 - Team Work | |||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | |||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | |||
| 8 - Ethical practice | |||
| 9 - Social Innovation | |||
| 10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | |||
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
| Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 40% | ||||||||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 40% | ||||||||||
| 3 - Written Assessment - 20% | ||||||||||
Textbooks
There are no required textbooks.
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Audio Interface (See Term-Specific Information)
- A Digital Audio Workstation - Pro Tools recommended (see Term-Specific Information)
- A microphone for recording (see Term-Specific Information)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 7th Edition (APA 7th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
d.reaston@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Unit Overview - Fundamentals of Audio Recording
Equalisation
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Panning
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Compression
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Reverb
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording: Fundamentals of Sound
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Microphone Types and Application
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording Vocals
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording Drum Kit/Acoustic Percussion
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording Guitar
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording Bass/Keys/DI'ed instruments
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Recording Horns/Woodwinds and Recording Acoustic Music Live
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Conclusion
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
This is a practical unit about audio recording. Because of this, you will need to have access to the following:
- A Digital Audio Workstation (D.A.W.) - Pro Tools recommended
- An audio interface
- A microphone, or microphones for recording
- Music/musicians to record
Pro Tools is released by AVID: https://www.avid.com/. You will need to use Pro Tools (or another approved D.A.W.) in order to complete the first two assessment tasks. If you would like to use another D.A.W. please consult with the Unit Coordinator prior to term, but be aware that all the learning materials for this unit have been created with Pro Tools. Please refer to the unit's Moodle website for download links.
Because you will be recording, you also need to have some kind of audio interface that accepts 1/4" jacks and XLR cables (for recording lines and microphones).
Access to a microphone is also crucial, as you must be able to capture sound. During this unit you will learn about different types of microphones as well as microphone technique and placement.
During this unit, you will be required to record some music for Assessment 2. Depending on what you decide to record, you may have to source musicians for this recording.
1 Written Assessment
You will be required to complete five short music production tasks in a Digital Audio Workstation (D.A.W.) (Pro Tools recommended) using specified raw, unmixed audio tracks. These tasks require you to manipulate:
- Equalisation
- Panning
- Compression
- Reverb
- Balance
In addition, you will also be required to write an 1,000 word essay (200 words per task) discussing your application of each tool/plug-in used, and the reasoning behind your mixing decisions.
Assessment submission and presentation
You must submit:
- Five Pro Tools sessions (including Audio Files) (one for each task)*
- 1,000 word** essay as a Microsoft Word Document (.docx) which must use 12 point Times New Roman font, 1.5 spacing for the body of the assignment, include your name and student number, and adhere to the CQUniversity APA Style Guide.
*If using another approved D.A.W., you will need to submit audio stems for each task instead of Pro Tools sessions. If the session consists of multiple tracks, you will need to bounce each track separately and submit the individual tracks as well as the Master. Your essay will need to include screenshots/images of all your settings in order to meet the assessment criteria.
**The word count is considered from the first word of the introduction to the last word of the conclusion. It excludes the cover page, abstract, contents page, reference page and appendices. It includes in-text references and direct quotations.
Week 6 Monday (23 Aug 2021) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 9 Monday (13 Sept 2021)
Task 1 (Vocal)
- Application and effective use of equalisation (5%)
- Application and effective use of compression (5%)
- Application and effective use of reverb (5%)
- Appropriate balance and effective use of panning (5%)
Task 2 (Bass)
- Application and effective use of equalisation (5%)
- Application and effective use of compression (5%)
Task 3 (Guitar)
- Application and effective use of equalisation (5%)
- Application and effective use of compression (5%)
- Application and effective use of reverb (5%)
- Appropriate balance and effective use of panning (5%)
Task 4 (Keyboard)
- Application and effective use of equalisation (5%)
- Application and effective use of compression (5%)
- Application and effective use of reverb (5%)
Task 5 (Drums)
- Application and effective use of equalisation (5%)
- Application and effective use of compression (5%)
- Application and effective use of reverb (5%)
- Appropriate balance and effective use of panning (5%)
Discussion
- Discussion is thoughtful and considered (10%)
- Discussion uses correct spelling, grammar and punctuation (5%)
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Information Technology Competence
- demonstrate an understanding of current recording technologies and equipment
- demonstrate an ability to design a detailed plan for recording a project
2 Written Assessment
You are to record and mix a song of your own choice.
- The recording should be approximately 3-4 minutes long
- The recording must have a minimum of three different instruments in addition to at least one vocal track (for example: Piano, electric bass, acoustic guitar and vocals)
- Each instrument must be recorded on a separate track.
You may record all parts separately to a click track or multi-track everything. However, if you decide to multi-track, every instrument must have it's own channel. A reasonable amount of 'bleed' is acceptable, but too much and it will hinder your ability to mix effectively.
You must submit:
- An audio file (.mp3, .wav etc.) of the final mastered project
- The Pro Tools session for the song (including all the Audio Files)*
*If using another approved D.A.W., you will need to submit audio stems of your session instead of a Pro Tools session. Each individual track will need to be bounced/exported twice: once with the plug-ins engaged, and another without (the raw track). Your essay component (Assessment 3) will need to include screenshots/images of all your settings in order to meet the assessment criteria (mix and edit windows, and each plug-in used).
Review/Exam Week Wednesday (13 Oct 2021) 11:45 pm AEST
Assessment will be returned at the end of term
Recording
- Recording demonstrates knowledge of appropriate microphone placement (35%)
- Tracks are recorded at an appropriate level (20%)
- Audio signal is clean on all tracks (15%)
Mixing
- Balance is achieved throughout the recording (6%)
- Equalisation is well-implemented and effective (6%)
- Panning is well-implemented and effective (6%)
- Compression is well-implemented and effective (6%)
- Reverb is well-implemented and effective (6%)
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Team Work
- demonstrate an understanding of current recording technologies and equipment
- demonstrate ability to record and manage a recording project from beginning to end.
3 Written Assessment
Minimum 1000 words*
In addition to the finished track in Assessment 2, you must submit a recording process overview discussing the recording process from start to finish.
You must include technical information such as:- Microphones used
- Microphone placement
- Effects used
- D.I.'s used
- Audio interface used
- Plugins used
In this document, you must embed photographs from your recording process giving clear indication of how each instrument was mic'ed and the thought process that went into the mic placement. Discuss any recording techniques that you attempted, but didn't have the desired effect. If you are using another approved D.A.W. besides Pro Tools, you will need to include screenshots/images of all your settings (mix and edit windows, and each plug-in used).
You must also discuss the creative elements of the recording process including:
- Challenges you faced recording and mixing/mastering
- Why you chose certain microphones for certain instruments
- How you created balance and space in the mix
- How you used effects
Assessment submission and presentation
Your assessment must be submitted as a Microsoft Word Document (.docx) with photos embedded (do not submit photos separately), and must use 12 point Times New Roman font, 1.5 spacing for the body of the assignment, include your name and student number, and adhere to the CQUniversity APA Style Guide.
*The word count is considered from the first word of the introduction to the last word of the conclusion. It excludes the cover page, abstract, contents page, reference page and appendices. It includes in-text references and direct quotations.
Review/Exam Week Wednesday (13 Oct 2021) 11:45 pm AEST
Assessment will be returned at the end of term
Technical Discussion
- Technical information is relevant and complete (30%)
- Clear photographs have been provided for each mic'ed instrument showing application of microphone placement (15%)
Creative Discussion
- Discussion is thoughtful and considered (30%)
General
- Accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar; clarity of writing style (20%)
- Meeting delivery requirements (presentation, word count, style guide) (5%)
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Information Technology Competence
- demonstrate an understanding of current recording technologies and equipment
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
