Do I have what it takes to work in Digital Sound Engineering?

Do you dream of working in the entertainment and media world? Do you love experimenting with different types of music and sound bytes? Does creating the backdrop of sound for radio programmes, TV shows or functions interest you? Do you have a finely tuned ear which is sensitive to pitch and tone?

Sound technicians are the backbone for music concerts, outside broadcasts, radio stations, and the sound for corporate functions. They are the reason why sound plays such a powerful role in our world – without them events, television or radio would have little impact.

Quinton Meiring, INTEC College’s guidance counsellor says if you answer yes to five or more of these questions, then digital sound engineering is a career well worth exploring.

Do you have a broad knowledge of sound, music and acoustics? Do you have an aptitude for working with computers and audio equipment? Do you have a good ear for detail in the area of sound? Do you find it easy to learn how to operate new technology? Do you cope well under pressure? Do you have good problem-solving skills? Are you a ‘people’s person’ who communicates well with others? Are you able to work long hours and over weekends? Are you happy to work in all types of weather conditions?

Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N

Which Career Opportunities Are There After Graduation?
Sound technicians work in areas across the media spectrum including radio, television and recording studios. Opportunities also exist in theatres and live performances such as rock concerts, jazz festivals or outdoor summer concerts. Other areas that use the skills of a sound technician include wholesale and retail businesses trading in sound reproduction, recording or public address equipment. Sound engineers usually specialise in operating or maintaining sound equipment.

Where Is The Best Place To Study?
INTEC College is a recommended South African institution where you can study digital sound engineering. The course teaches students the function and application of tools such as effect, processors and audio editing with strong focus on digital mixing. Other areas include understanding frequency spectrum, equalisation and multi track mixing.

INTEC’s course is offered via distance learning, a flexible and affordable study method which allows students to continue working and also gives you the option of gaining in-house experience at a recording studio for example.

Which Tasks May You Perform As A Digital Sound Engineer?

• You will be required to determine the sound requirements for various types of events and functions
• You will set up, test and operate equipment in accordance with the acoustics of the area and select, place and adjust microphones
• You may monitor audio signals to detect quality deviations or malfunctions
• The servicing, maintenance and repair of amplifiers, tuners, receivers, digital audio systems, turntables and pick-ups, reel-to-reel and cassette-type tape recorders and speaker systems will be your responsibility
• You could build and install sound systems
• You will dub and edit tapes
• You may talk with performers and instruct them on microphone use
• You may introduce pre-recorder special effects required for scripts

Click here for more information and to enrol for this exciting course