Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to mix audio for live shows in the screen, media, entertainment and events industries.
Individuals who apply these skills work autonomously in a team environment as they take responsibility for the front of house mix, which involves creating quality sound for audiences. They may also be responsible for supervising others.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance Criteria Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for live audio mixing | 1.1 Review production documentation and confirm scope of audio mixing requirements with relevant personnel 1.2 Ensure that audio equipment is set up and operational in line with production requirements 1.3 Anticipate problems that could arise during shows and plan accordingly |
2. Undertake pre-show operations | 2.1 Match interfaces between audio and destination in accordance with level, impedance, phase and frequency 2.2 Line check all inputs and outputs for continuity and patching and route test signals to correct signal paths 2.3 Perform time and phase alignment of audio equipment and adjust as required 2.4 Check that audio levels and controls meet acoustic and dynamic requirements 2.5 Take action to ensure that faults and problems identified during testing are rectified promptly 2.6 Complete audio check and document changes according to organisational requirements 2.7 Operate front of house and monitor consoles during dress rehearsals or sound checks to establish appropriate mix to produce the required technical level, tonal balances and frequency response 2.8 Discuss audio issues with relevant personnel during rehearsals and adjust mix as required |
3. Mix audio sources for live shows | 3.1 Manage signal control of level, equalisation and dynamic parameters to achieve a balanced sound mix 3.2 Apply effects according to production requirements 3.3 Produce transitions between sound signals that are technically accurate and produce the required effect 3.4 Ensure that the level of the composite signal is within technical limits and desired dynamic range 3.5 Observe and manage sound pressure levels according to venue requirements and safe noise levels 3.6 Resolve audio operational problems with minimal disruption to performances |
4. Complete post-show operations | 4.1 Execute power down and disassemble equipment safely 4.2 Pack and store equipment and accessories according to safety regulations and production requirements 4.3 Clean work environment after use and restore environment to original condition 4.4 Contribute to evaluations of productions and implement recommendations aimed at improving overall effectiveness of audio operations 4.5 Seek feedback from relevant personnel on own work performance and note areas for improvement |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
mix live audio for at least two performances or productions in line with production requirements
mix live audio using both analogue and digital mixing desks
work collaboratively.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements the individual must:
explain the features and mixing capabilities of a range of analogue and digital front of house consoles
explain how the matrix and main outputs of consoles are used
explain how signal processing options can be used for troubleshooting and for creative effects
describe techniques for adding and patching sub-mixers into sound systems
describe how the following apply when mixing live audio:
automation and cue delivery
contemporary audio effectors and digital system processing (DSP) effects
SMPTE time code and musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) to fire cues and automation
voltage control amplifier (VCA) masters.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to equipment and accessories used to mix live audio.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Learning | 4.5 | Seeks the views and opinions of others to improve work performance |
Reading | 1.1 | Interprets production documentation in relation to own duties |
Writing | 2.6 | Prepares and updates workplace documentation |
Oral communication | 1.1, 2.5, 2.7, 2.8, 3.6, 4.4, 4.5 | Obtains information by listening and questioning Discusses ideas and solutions in relation to audio operations |
Numeracy | 2.3, 2.4 | Uses numerical features of audio desks |
Navigate the world of work | 1.2, 2.6, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5, 3.6, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 | Follows workplace protocols and safety procedures Complies with organisational requirements in relation to noise levels Demonstrates a commitment to improving job performance by contributing to evaluations of audio operations |
Interact with others | 1.1, 2.5, 2.7, 2.8, 3.6, 4.4, 4.5 | Works collaboratively to determine and complete requirements Follows accepted communication practices and protocols |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 | Adopts a methodical and logical approach to live audio mixing duties Plans for contingencies Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems that arise in audio operations Meets work deadlines Operates the full range of features of professional audio equipment Uses standard word processing and spreadsheet applications to update audio documentation |
Sectors
Media and entertainment production - audio/sound