Module Details

Module Code: MUSC U7025 X
Full Title: Audio Signal Processing
Valid From:: Semester 1 - 2019/20 ( June 2019 )
Language of Instruction:English
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits:: 5
Module Owner:: Niall Coghlan
Departments: Unknown
Module Description: This module introduces the student to the concepts and operational characteristics of the principal audio processing tools commonly used to sculpt and manipulate sounds. The module explores the fundamentals of processing in the amplitude, time and frequency domains and facilitate the process of ear training and differential auditioning of the impact of the processing.
 
Module Learning Outcome
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Module Learning Outcome Description
MLO1 Define the basic concepts and typical applications of Equalization, Compression and Reverberation
MLO2 Explain and use the fundamental control parameters associated with processing audio signal dynamics, spectral content and spatial attributes
MLO3 Apply equalisation, compression and reverberation processing tools, correctively and creatively, to enhance both singular sound source and multiple sound source events
MLO4 Use A/B listening techniques to identify and qualify perceived differences between processed and unprocessed sounds
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
 
Module Indicative Content
Processing Categories
Equalisation, Compression, Reverberation and Pitch.
Signal chain integration
Best practices in routing implementations.
Processor type variants
Parametric, graphic, VCA, opto, algorithmic, convolution.
Processor specific terminologies
Frequency, quality factor, threshold, attack and release times, early reflections, diffusion.
Spectral content of sound
Frequency domain, fundamentals, harmonics, sub-harmonics, overtones
Dynamic characteristics
Envelope contour, ADSR, classification of signal type, amplitude dynamics, the importance of a signal's leading edge and decay characteristics.
Spatial Effects
Reverberation: Early and late reflections, diffusion, decay time, direct vs reflected sound concentrations. Delay: rhythmic-based delays, Haas effect, blending multiple delays, tape-based delays.
Hard/software Implementations
Software emulations of hardware, legacy products, pros and cons of both hardware and software approaches
Processing in the Context of the Mix
Tailoring sounds for a specific textural, dynamic and spatial blend, identifying spectral conflicts and applying complimentary equalisation.
Application of Processing Tools for sound enhancement
Processing techniques suitable for specific genres of instrument/sound. Application intention, perceived transparency, artistic expression and surgical correction.
Module Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Practical70.00%
Final Examination30.00%
Module Special Regulation
 

Assessments

Full-time

No Course Work
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 70
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing S1 Week 12 Learning Outcome 3,4
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Processors from each of the three domains, spectral, amplitude and time, are applied both correctively and creatively to audio sources in a typical multi-track recording session.
Final Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 30
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcome 1
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
n/a

Part-time

No Course Work
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 70
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing S1 Week 12 Learning Outcome 3,4
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Processors from each of the three domains, spectral, amplitude and time, are applied both correctively and creatively to audio sources in a typical multi-track recording session.
Final Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 30
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcome 1
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
n/a
Reassessment Requirement
A repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full-time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description Every Week 1.00 1
Practical Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Directed Reading Non Contact Exploration of leading producers signal processing techniques and motivations. Every Week 3.00 3
Independent Study Non Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Total Weekly Learner Workload 8.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
Workload: Part-time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description Every Week 1.00 1
Practical Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Directed Reading Non Contact No Description Every Week 3.00 3
Independent Study Non Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Total Weekly Learner Workload 8.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Izhaki, R. (2012), Mixing Audio : Concepts, Practices and Tools, 2nd ed. Focal Press, Oxford, [ISBN: 9780240522227].
  • Case, A. (2007), Sound FX : Unlocking the Creative Potential of Recording Studio Effects, Focal Press, Oxford, [ISBN: 0240520327].
  • Reiss, J. (2015), Audio Effects: Theory Implementation and Application, CRC Press, [ISBN: 9781466560291].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources