Will “Sound Designer” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Synchronize and equalize prerecorded dialogue, music, and sound effects with visual action of motion pictures or television productions, using control consoles.

• Convert video and audio recordings into digital formats for editing or archiving.

• Set up, test, and adjust recording equipment for recording sessions and live performances.

• Reproduce and duplicate sound recordings from original recording media, using sound editing and duplication equipment.

• Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording media, using recording equipment.

• Prepare for recording sessions by performing such activities as selecting and setting up microphones.

• Separate instruments, vocals, and other sounds, and combine sounds during the mixing or postproduction stage.

• Confer with producers, performers, and others to determine and achieve the desired sound for a production, such as a musical recording or a film.

• Keep logs of recordings.

• Report equipment problems and ensure that required repairs are made.

• Tear down equipment after event completion.

• Regulate volume level and sound quality during recording sessions, using control consoles.

• Mix and edit voices, music, and taped sound effects for live performances and for prerecorded events, using sound mixing boards.

• Create musical instrument digital interface programs for music projects, commercials, or film postproduction.