Sound Engineer (Recording Industry)

Sound engineers work in recording and audio post-production studios, operating sophisticated electronic equipment to record music, speech, sound and other audio effects for music CDs, radio, film, TV, commercials, corporate productions, websites and interactive media.

The sound engineer is responsible for what the audience hears. Depending on the type of recording, they may:

• plan recording sessions with producers and artists
• position microphones
• operate equipment for recording, mixing and sequencing
• balance sound and add effects.

Sound engineers record the sound onto a multi-track tape machine or a hard disk drive, before mixing and mastering for final production. The master can then be made into various formats, including CD, minidisc, DVD-A (Digital Versatile Disc-Audio), SACD (Super Audio Compact Disc), MP3 or digital audio files in different formats.

Hours can be long and unpredictable, and night and weekend work is common. Sound engineers need to be flexible as their hours may depend on the availability of artists and producers and the needs of the production project.

Most of the work is carried out in recording or post-production studios which can be air conditioned, spacious and well equipped, but smaller studios may be more uncomfortable.

Earnings may range from around £15,000 up to £75,000 a year.

A sound engineer should have:

• excellent hearing
• the ability to listen and to differentiate between sounds
• a good sense of pitch, timing and rhythm
• a knowledge of sound recording and post-production processes
• a good knowledge of and interest in different types of music.

Sound engineers are employed by commercial recording and audio post-production studios. Most of the major employers are based in London, but there are many smaller independent studios around the country. Many sound engineers are freelance. Competition for jobs as a sound engineer is fierce. Networking, the ability to make personal contacts and experience in the industry are vital.

It may be possible to enter the industry without formal qualifications. Some commercial studios and audio post-production facilities houses take on runners or assistants who perform routine tasks. If they show promise they may eventually work their way up to become a sound engineer. Larger studios may require applicants to have a related qualification. There is a wide range of relevant courses at various levels.

Sound engineers who have built up a reputation may become producers. Others may specialise in a particular area or go on to set up their own recording studios.

Further details