Digital @ The Arts Unit Creative Classes
Audio fundamentals
Learn the fundamental elements of a basic audio system
Student VET entertainment, music and drama resource developed by The Arts Unit
Years 9 to 12 music and drama, Years 11 and 12 VET entertainment
What will I learn?
You will:
identify the basic principles of an audio system
explore the different uses for microphones
discover how to use an audio mixing desk
create audio set-ups for various scenarios
Before you begin
Welcome to the @The Arts Unit Creative Class on audio fundamentals.
Lessons 1 and 2 explore a basic audio system by learning about the equipment used, as well as its purpose and function.
Lesson 3 has further extension activities directed at VET Entertainment students.
They have both theoretical and practical components for you to complete.
All the images used in this class are also in a document you can download and print on the teacher page.
Equipment you will need to complete the practical class components:
dynamic microphone
condenser microphone
XLR microphone leads
iPad, laptop or CD player
instrument – guitar or keyboard
audio mixing unit – analogue or digital desk
speakers.
Audio – public address system
A basic public address (PA) audio system is made up of 3 parts:
input sources – where the acoustic sound is transformed into an electrical audio signal
processing devices – where the electrical audio signal is manipulated, mixed, recorded and amplified
output devices – where the electrical audio signal is converted back into acoustic sound waves and transmitted to be heard by humans.
Task
List examples of specific input, processing and output equipment that would be used in a basic PA audio system.
Measurements of sound
Decibels (dB) – are used to measure a sound level, but it is also widely used in electronics, signals and communication.
Frequency – a vibration that is audible to the human ear. It is measured in hertz (Hz) and is the element of sound that most determines pitch.
Inputs and outputs
Processing devices
VET Entertainment extension activities
Be sure to explore all of our @The Arts Unit VET Entertainment Creative Classes:
HSC Hub
To assist with your HSC exam preparations you might like to also visit the Department of Education's HSC hub.
