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Midpoint šā
Midpoint šā
As I find myself at the midpoint of this course, itās an opportune moment to pause and reflect on the experiences and knowledge gained thus far. This journey into the realm of audio recording has been both exhilarating and challenging, pushing me to delve deeper into the intricacies of sound.
From the outset, I was captivated by the magic of capturing and refining audio. The initial weeks were a whirlwind of learning the fundamentals: from understanding different types of microphones and their optimal uses, to grasping the nuances of sound waves and acoustics. Each concept unfolded like a puzzle piece, gradually forming a clearer picture of how sound functions in various environments.
From the Start šš±
From the Start šš±
As I said in my self-introduction five weeks ago, audio recording and mixing have always been my hobby, but I want to take it to the next level where I can use these skills and techniques for more complex and āprofessional-soundingā recordingsāmaybe, even use it for my future line of work. I generally mentioned that I expected to learn more about audio and sounds in this course, and so far (as we enter Unit III: Post-production), I am able to comprehend and apply the two approaches to listening to audio, critical and analytical. I am also able to understand audio concepts like signal flows and acoustic treatments which would help me better grasp the processes I am undertaking as I record my audio, hopefully resulting in better-quality of recordings.Ā
This is one of my song covers that I usually post online. I particularly enjoyed creating the harmonies for this Lizzy McAlpine song. (I reposted it on my SoundCloud for the purpose of this blog)
At the beginning of the course, I felt excited as we started this audio journey, and I can say that that slight excitement hasnāt worn down yet since I genuinely enjoy creating sounds and recording audio. The modules are nicely broken down into parts that are easily digestible, the forum discussions are diverse, engaging, and thought-provoking, and the activities so far have been fun to do so I can fairly say I am pleased with this course. As for the challenges I have encountered, they would probably be concerned with the equipment and location of my recordings. Since I am recording at home, the circumstances are not always constant, so I have to deal with simple yet impactful things like noisy neighborhoods or rainy environments.Ā
After Assignment 1 šÆš”
After Assignment 1 šÆš”
Speaking of equipment, after submitting my Assignment 1b and hearing the recording of my classmates, it made me reevaluate my equipment which, in turn, made me decide to upgrade my current microphone (from a Zoom H1 field recorder to a Neat King Bee II condenser microphone) and buy a new audio interface. At first, I wondered if the purchase was worth it since the class would only last 3 months and I could make do with my current set-up (plus, it's not a cheap purchase), but I figured since it is my hobby and I do record a lot of covers in my free time, I might as well invest in something that would improve the quality of my future recordings. I did a lot of research for good condenser microphones that are within the range of my budget and I listened to a lot of reviews before committing to it. The microphone hasnāt arrived yet as I am impatiently waiting for it and constantly checking the tracking system of the parcel delivery. I canāt wait to try it out!Ā
Going back, since hearing the recordings of my classmates, I wouldnāt say it changed my outlook per se (except for buying new equipment). I guess it just made me more excited and motivated for whatās next in this courseāespecially the final project!
Zoom H1 Field Recorder (Left); Neat King Bee II Condenser Microphone (Right)
Preparing for the Final Project š¤šµ
Preparing for the Final Project š¤šµ
By the time I am writing this blog, I am already done with my pre-production assignment, meaning I have decided on what I want to do for my final project which is very exciting! I am currently working on my original arrangement for my cover of "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" by The Beatles. So this means figuring out the chords (mostly transposing) and the harmoniesāenvisioning the overall feel and vibe of the cover. This also means creating a demo, sort of a guide, for the final recording. I would say I am enthusiastic about it, to the point that it doesnāt feel like a school project since this is what I usually do when I make covers in my free time, minus the documentation and the extra steps of making a demo since I usually just go ahead and record immediately.Ā
Screenshot of my planned arrangement/demo for the cover
Scanned notes of my planning
If sample projects are to be shared as a goal or a standard for quality, I think I would accept that challenge. After all, I do love improving myself and the things I create. It would be nice to have some sort of reference for the level of detail and quality that is expected of us. However, regardless if there are sample projects given, I know that I will strive to create a āprofessional-soundingā recording and do my best.
From Here On šš
From Here On šš
Looking ahead to the remainder of the course, I am excited about the prospect of diving deeper into advanced recording techniques. I am particularly keen on refining my skills in audio mixing and mastering, areas that I believe will significantly enhance my ability to produce high-quality recordings.
Since I am based abroad, as much as I would want to, I canāt attend the F2F sessions. It would have been great if I could see in actuality professional setups and experience first-hand professional recordings. However, I am very much open to collaborating with my classmates in one form or another. I have seen some of their enthusiasm towards this course so I am stoked to work with them.Ā
In conclusion, the midpoint of this multimedia class marks not just a milestone in my academic journey, but a pivotal moment of growth and discovery in my passion for audio recording. I am grateful for the guidance of our professor and the camaraderie of my classmates, whose shared enthusiasm has fueled my own dedication. As I continue forward, I am eager to apply what Iāve learned, to push the boundaries of my creativity, and to see where this exciting path leads me next.
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