ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS

Studio Basics

This document is the base knowledge of all things audio. Please refer to this to help prepare for your TC Test. More can be found in the complete studio handbook below.

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Microphones

We have a wide array of microphones available to use here. Do you know the different types and how best to use them? Find out about Proximity Effect, Phase Cancellation, Stereo Techniques and much more.

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5.1 Surround Guide

Guidelines for setting up the studio, I/O routing in your DAW, and how to export multichannel audio.

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W.H.O - Make Listening Safe

A short document highlighting the guidelines on safe dB levels. You only have one set of ears.

University Software.

Our studios have a great range of software available for you to use when on site. We support 4 main DAWS. Logic, Ableton, Pro Tools and FL. We also have a range of plugins from developers including UAD, Waves, Fab Filter, Izotope, Native Instruments. Specialist software (such as Dolby Atmos, WWise, MAX) is available in selected locations.

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Free Plugins, Software & Samples.

There is a plethora of free music software and sounds available online. Lucky for you, we have collated a list of some great freeware from some of the most respected and interesting developers in the industry. Get to know these developers, expand your sound palette, and try something different. Some of these will require sign-up or an email in exchange.

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Blogs, Books & Podcasts.

- Knowledge is power -

We have curated an invaluable list of resources for any modern-day audio professional. Keep up to date with the way in which our industry is adapting, how artists are experimenting, and what the future of sound will look like. Expect content such as sound design, production tips, music tech, interviews, breakdowns, tutorials, and social & creative practice.

The Complete Studio Handbook:

The ultimate guide on not only how the UOW studios run, but an insight into how most commercial studios are set up. Topics include Studio Setup,  Outboard, Interfaces, DAWs, Microphones, Our Studio Breakdown, DAW Shortcuts, Surround Sound, Dante, SiSO, Recording Tips, Studio Stock List, a comprehensive Reading List, and much much more.

An incredibly valuable resource during, and after your studies. 

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The Audio Plugin Handbook - An Invitation To The Digital Realm:

Had enough of stock plugins? For those ready to take the leap into third-party plugins, this handbook offers an in-depth and descriptive overview of some of the industry standard, and best kept secrets in the plugin world. The audio plugin market has exploded over the last decade and we have an overwhelming number of choices available to us. This hand-selected pick, represents some of the most useful tools you can add to your sound palette. Read up on plugin formats, EDU discount, bundles, emulations, specialist software, and a list of trusted developers/stores.

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An Introduction To Ableton Live - Getting Started & Workflow Tips:

Live is one of the most powerful DAW's on the market. Aimed at users transitioning from another DAW, or just beginners, this handbook is a great digestible overview. Structured around clean imagery & key functions, it will help guide you around the surface of Ableton Live. The included tips were selected to streamline your workflow and to help you smoothly begin your journey in Live.

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Try These Techniques - 50 Creative Production Techniques:

Loosely inspired by Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies, this handbook was written to evoke experimentation in your creative practice, breaking the cycle of repetition and familiarity you always work with. Touching on creative production tips, some philosophical perspective, and some name dropping of plugins and hardware, there is something in here for everyone. Keep pushing yourself.

All Handbooks are researched and written by the Music Tech Team, on behalf of UOW.