Teaching Responsibility

LJMU Schools involved in Delivery:

LJMU Partner Taught

Learning Methods

Lecture

Practical

Workshop

Module Offerings

5602STE -SEP-PAR

Aims

This module aims to build on and develop the skills and techniques learned in Live Sound 1 addressing larger sound reinforcement systems in both fixed installations and portable situations. It also introduces the learner to the specific requirements of sound-reinforcement and sound design in theatrical and other non-musical contexts. More advanced technologies are introduced, such as the use of RF systems for microphones and monitoring, active speaker management and measurement systems, advanced applications of live sound digital mixing consoles, introduction to digital audio networking and the use of sophisticated DSP based systems for processing and show control.

Learning Outcomes

1.
Design, rig, optimize and operate medium to large sound reinforcement systems appropriate to a given brief.
2.
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the function and use of digital speaker management and measurement systems, RF mics, wired and wireless monitoring and communication systems.
3.
Identify, diagnose and resolve faults in complex sound reinforcement systems taking into account relevant safety requirements including power distribution.
4.
Critically evaluate their process and product including both technical and non-technical influences.

Module Content

Outline Syllabus:
Advanced Speaker Systems

Multiple speaker arrays – distributed approaches to reinforcement; active speaker management systems – crossover points and responses, compression and protection; planning, rigging and flying techniques for loudspeakers; time alignment and imaging.

Advanced System Design

Working with mix matrixes; analogue and digital live sound consoles; digital audio networking basics; DSP based system processing – advantages and disadvantages, key components, software building blocks, building DSP-based system processing  profiles, remote monitoring; power distribution – single and multi-phase, distribution and conditioning units, avoiding earth loops.

RF Technology and Communications Systems

Basic principle of RF transmission and reception; aerial types and uses; frequency planning, management and licensing; inter-modulation and how to avoid it; RF distribution and head amplification; working with radio microphones – capsule types and characteristics, mic placement strategies and techniques with head-worn microphones; working with In-Ear Monitoring Systems; Communication systems for live sound - design and implementation.

Theatre Sound

Similarities and differences in theatrical reinforcement requirements; protocols for working in theatre; planning and producing documentation.

System Measurement and Tuning

Principles of measurement – single channel spectrum analysis vs. dual-channel measurement principles; using software and hardware tools for measurement.
Additional Information:
This module is a pre-requisite to undertake 6602STE Advanced Live Sound.

Assessments

Practice

Practice

Portfolio