Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to select and manage microphones and other audio input sources for productions in the screen, media, entertainment and events industries.
Individuals who apply these skills work autonomously in a team environment as they work to achieve the best possible audio outcomes for performances or shows. 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. Organise input sources | 1.1 Determine audio requirements and timelines in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation 1.2 Assess venues to determine input source options based on acoustic analyses that take physical limitations into account 1.3 Take acoustic sources of audio into account when identifying preferred microphone placement 1.4 Clarify the backline needs of musical groups as required and organise microphones and other input sources accordingly 1.5 Keep up-to-date with developments in audio technology to ensure the most appropriate selection of microphones and the best approach to audio operations 1.6 Reach agreement on placement and organisation of microphones and other audio input sources prior to technical run-throughs or rehearsals |
2. Maximise gain on stage | 2.1 Place and connect microphones in desired locations using safe work practices 2.2 Position microphones appropriately to achieve required gain 2.3 Increase gain before feedback through effective use of equalisation options and effects equipment |
3. Manage inputs | 3.1 Prepare and implement appropriate microphone plots 3.2 Patch microphone signals to audio mixing desk, including multiple signals as required 3.3 Prepare and maintain an input signal failure plan 3.4 Test input sources, identify problems promptly and take appropriate action to rectify 3.5 In consultation with relevant personnel, evaluate quality of audio set-up and note areas for future improvement |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
set up and test complex microphone plots and other audio input sources for at least two productions or events
apply in-depth knowledge of microphone technology and product options to work activities
manage a range of microphone and other audio inputs during technical run-throughs or rehearsals on at least two occasions
correctly use terminology associated with input source management
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 of a range of different microphone and the contexts in which they are best used
explain the acoustic consequences of signal phase problems and when to use phantom power
provide examples of current trends in microphone development and the availability of products
provide examples of issues and challenges that typically arise when managing audio input sources, along with solutions to address them
provide example of issues to consider when preparing microphone plots and input signal failure plans.
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 a range of microphones and audio equipment 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 |
Reading | 1.1, 1.5 | Obtains information from a range of written sources |
Writing | 3.1, 3.3, 3.5 | Prepares and updates workplace documentation Documents outcomes of evaluations |
Oral communication | 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 3.4, 3.5 | Obtains information by listening and questioning Discusses ideas and solutions in relation to audio operations |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1, 1.2, 1.6, 2.1, 3.5 | Follows workplace protocols and safety procedures Demonstrates a commitment to improving own work performance through contributing to evaluations of audio set-ups |
Interact with others | 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 3.4, 3.5 | Works collaboratively to determine and complete requirements Follows accepted communication practices and protocols |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, | Adopts a methodical and logical approach to preparing microphone plots and managing audio input sources Assesses venues from an acoustic perspective to inform decisions about placement of audio equipment and accessories Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems that arise in audio operations Meets work deadlines Applies knowledge of audio concepts and principles to the set-up and operation of audio equipment and accessories Uses standard word processing and spreadsheet applications to update audio documentation |
Sectors
Media and entertainment production - audio/sound