Revised 09/98

MUS 157 - Studio Design & Sound Re-enforcement (3 CR.)

Course Description

Introduces the theory and practice of sound studio design and re-enforcement. Provides a basic understanding of acoustics, acoustical properties of construction materials, and application of acoustics in sound re-enforcement. Allows the student practical opportunities in designing sound studios. Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 2 hours. Total 4 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

This course is designed to introduce the student to acoustical theory and practice as it applies to the construction and selection of recording studios. It explores the use of various construction materials and the layout of particular areas of the studio. Further, it applies this information to the actual re-enforcement of sound in a live performance environment.

Through theoretical study, experimentation in lab sessions, and field work and trips to actual studios and live performance situations, the student will acquire a working knowledge of sound studio design.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Concurrent enrollment in the Recording Technology Certificate program, MUS 140 - “ Introduction to Recording Techniques” , and division approval.

Course Objectives

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • understand acoustical theory and practices
  • recognize the relative acoustic properties of different materials
  • provide solutions to various acoustical problems
  • create a usable floor plan design of a recording studio
  • create an equipment design plan and an electrical requirement design plan for a studio and a live performance situation
  • create alternative solutions for maintaining budgetary constraints

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Theory of acoustical transmission, reflection, and absorption
  • Acoustical properties of different materials
  • Acoustic requirements of a recording studio
  • Acoustic requirements of a live performance sound re-enforcement
  • Basic blueprint reading and sketching
  • Floor plan considerations for the recording studio