First things first! What actually is audio engineering? Well, at its most basic level, audio engineering is the act of producing a sound recording of any kind. That’s pretty vague, but it’s good to let you know it applies to many different fields to begin with.

Read on for a deeper look at the salary an experienced Audio Engineer can expect to make.

When someone says they are an Audio Engineer, this can mean many different things, but they likely fit into one of two general categories. The first is probably what most of the people who clicked this article are looking for, but there is another, one which isn’t talked about as often, but which is also important and worth mentioning.

As most people think of them, Audio Engineers use a wide variety of tools and technology to take sound coming from one initial source, such as a Singer on stage or in a recording studio or an Actor on set, and get it to the audience.

That audience can be standing right in front of them, such as is the case at a concert or a musical, or we can be talking about someone sitting at home watching TV. Both of these scenarios will require a person with an understanding of audio engineering.

The second kind of Audio Engineer is one who is actually a scientist. This type of Audio Engineer is one who researches, designs, and possibly even builds new technology that allows other sound professionals to improve the live and recorded experience.

These are the people who have improved the sound quality in TV and film throughout the decades, and the ones who ensure that even if you have the cheapest seat at a show or concert, you can hear much better today than you would have years ago.

The two types of Audio Engineers work together, in a sense, though not often actually on any specific projects. Typically, when someone uses the phrase “audio engineering” in the music industry, they are referring to the former option.

Audio Engineers are the ones who need to understand everything from the latest technology for improving sound to where to place microphones for a performance. They work on the technical aspect of sound and recording, which can be very technical.

In addition to actually placing the microphones around a stage for a concert or on the dress of the woman who will be starring in a big Broadway musical, Audio Engineers need to make sure everything is perfect during sound check, they need to stand behind a console and sometimes mix audio live to ensure everyone can hear properly.

Sometimes they do this in a studio, while other times, they’re working at a rapid-fire pace, just like the performers . . .though they often don’t receive the same recognition for their work.

While the phrase Audio Engineer is correct, there are other job titles these professionals can be called, and, for the most part, they are actually interchangeable (though not always . . .but that’s a much more intricate conversation we don’t need to have right now).

Audio Engineers can also be referred to as Audio Technicians, Sound Technicians, Audio Technologists, Recording Engineers, Sound Mixers, Studio Technicians, and even Sound Engineers, depending on what they’re doing.

While many Audio Engineers may be proficient in every stage of their job, there are four general areas where a professional may focus, and it’s good for everyone to at least understand what all of them are.

When it comes to capturing commercial audio (working in a recording studio, essentially), Audio Engineers are needed for recording, editing, mixing and mastering. It’s tough for laypeople to recognize and understand the difference between them all, but Audio Engineers certainly will.

Each one of these specialties can be a job on its own, and there are those who stick to one lane and stay there, while others pick up the responsibility for more than one, if not all of them.

These categories can be broken down even further, and depending on the industry (film versus live versus the music world), there can be a handful of people working within each…but again, that’s much more complicated, and it would require a completely separate piece to go over them all.

Before diving into what schools offer audio engineering classes or what degrees may be necessary, a prospective student has to decide what kind of Audio Engineer they’d like to be one day. It can be a tough choice, especially for someone so young who may not have had the opportunity to explore either road yet, but leaning into one or the other is required because it dictates what type of courses one will sign up for.

The Audio Engineer who mics people, works behind the boards in a recording studio, and who actually sets levels and makes sure everything sounds perfect before somebody begins singing will focus more on practice, gaining a lot of real-world experience as they learn. Those who opt to go for the more scientifically inclined option will need to pass more classes rooted in math and science, as they will go on to work in labs developing new technologies.

Those who stick with the former will not have the training to simply switch over to the latter.

While the actual classes and experience students will take and garner during their time studying audio engineering may not differ wildly from school to school, the name of the focus of study might. Unlike some professions where everyone receives the same type of degree, but just at different schools, Audio Engineers can learn what they need and end up with diplomas with varying phrases.

Audio engineering programs across the U.S. come disguised with names like Music Production and Engineering, Music & Technology, Music Audio Production, Recording Arts & Technology, Sound Recording Technology, Recording Arts, and so on. The more scientific options may be called something else, and they typically fall under the engineering umbrella, as opposed to one focused on the arts.

Many Audio Engineers will work toward a bachelor’s degree in whatever their school of choice offers — this should usually be enough. Those who work in the scientific side of the field may have to go on to earn a master’s. Audio Engineers who want to be at the top of their industry or who want to teach others may then be required to earn a doctorate, though it’s not common.

It’s also worth mentioning if a student wants to focus on working in studios and on the road, as opposed to sticking to the more scientific route, a four-year degree might not be necessary at all.

There are plenty of instances of people being hired straight out of high school to begin apprenticeships and internships and learning what they need from experience. Others opt to go for associate’s degrees, which typically only require two years of study instead of four, and while that’s not often an option for many other professions, audio engineering is one where gainful employment can still be found with an AD.

Salaries for Audio Engineers vary widely, as is the case with most professions, but there is a general range. According to one informed source, Audio Engineers can expect to make somewhere between $31,000 and $70,000 in the U.S., with the average coming in around $56,000.

The same site states there is something of a hierarchy in the industry, with those working in the theater industry pulling in the lowest salaries, while those who work in studios and in the music industry typically make more per year. Audio Engineers who typically focus on films are usually on the higher end. Those Audio Engineers who are classified as scientists can bring in even higher sums.

The best Audio Engineers in the world, whether they be the ones who are more hands-on or those who stick to the scientific field of study, are the ones who understand both the latest developments and the origins of the job. Sound used to be recorded on tape, now it’s done digitally, and there are countless programs and apps and pieces of equipment available these days that didn’t exist only a few years back.

It’s tough to stay on top of what’s happening now and what’s coming next, but this is why the best stand out. Throughout college, it’s important all up-and-coming Audio Engineers do their best to not only look forward but backward as well. The new tech being employed today wouldn’t exist without the original, and understanding how both function, as well as where they fit into today’s landscape (since some artists still prefer older methods) is key.

Audio engineering is a unique and multifaceted profession that requires a blend of technical knowledge, creativity, and attention to detail. On the technical side, audio engineers need to have a deep understanding of analog and digital equipment and be able to use it to manipulate sound. They must also understand the principles of acoustics and be able to design sound systems that deliver quality results.

At the same time, audio engineering is a creative profession. Audio engineers must be able to think outside the box and find innovative ways to achieve the desired sound. This involves the use of effects and different sound processes to achieve the desired outcome. Audio engineers must be able to come up with solutions to difficult problems and ensure that the sound is consistently of the highest quality. This requires the engineer to make quick decisions and be able to recognize when something isn’t working.

Professional audio engineers are versatile professionals who work with a wide range of clients and industries. Depending on their professional experience and what they are passionate about, they can collaborate with musical artists, music producers, recording studio owners, mixers, movie directors, advertising firms, actors, TV executives, booking professionals, theater people, and so many others.

In order to provide the best possible sound quality, professional audio engineers must understand the unique requirements and preferences of each client, medium, and job. They use their expertise in sound recording and mixing to create the perfect soundscape for each project, whether it’s a live performance, a film soundtrack or a music recording.

Before becoming a professional audio engineer, it’s a good idea to take a look at the qualities people who want to become successful in this profession need to have, as well as why they’re so necessary.

Audio engineering is a highly technical job and requires audio engineers to possess a solid understanding of the equipment and technology they are working with. Professional audio engineers must be able to troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise and have knowledge of industry-standard software used for digital audio production. They must be able to make the necessary adjustments to optimize the audio and make it sound exactly how the client wants it to.

Audio engineers need to be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to any problems they may encounter while producing audio. They need to be able to identify the source of a problem and devise a solution. Theymust be familiar with thinking of new approaches to any given task to problem solve without guidance.

Audio engineers must be patient and be able to take their time to make sure the audio is perfect. They must be able to take direction from the client and make the necessary changes to the audio to get it sounding exactly how the client wants it to. Sometimes, audio engineers will have to wait long periods of time in between projects, sets, performances, or takes, depending on the role.

Audio engineers need to be able to communicate their ideas effectively to the client and be able to explain the technical aspects of the audio production process. They must be able to listen to the client’s feedback and be able to communicate any changes to their team–as sometimes audio engineers work with a complete crew, while in other instances, they’re alone–that must be made to the audio.

Audio engineering is a field that is constantly changing with new technology and software being released all the time. Professional audio engineers must have a desire to stay up to date with current trends and be willing to keep learning new things. They must be curious and open to trying new things and be able to adapt to changes quickly.

Now is an incredibly exciting time to become a professional audio engineer, as the demand for quality audio has never been higher. With the proliferation of television and film production, as well as the continuing popularity of music streaming services, there is now a growing need for audio engineers to help create, mix, and edit audio for all kinds of media.

Audio engineering is an ever-evolving field, and with the rise of virtual and augmented reality, there is an even larger opportunity for audio engineers to work on cutting-edge projects. With the right training, audio engineers can develop the skills to work on a variety of different pieces of content from film and television soundtracks to video game sound design, and more.

There are a lot of different kinds of audio engineers. Sometimes one person can easily transition from one role to another, as the skillsets line up closely. In other instances, it’s simply not feasible for someone with one background to take on a job better-suited for a completely different type of audio engineer, as the experience and know-how are very different.

Here’s a quick rundown of 10 different kinds of audio engineers, according to the Nashville Film Institute:

A studio engineer is a key player in the recording process and works closely with producers in a studio setting. They are often involved in the production process and can also operate independently as producers (on occasion). Additionally, they may also take on the role of recording engineer.

An assistant engineer is an important part of a studio team, and they work closely with studio engineers to learn the ins and outs of sound recording. They often start as apprentices and have the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art facilities.

The primary focus of a recording engineer is capturing sound, whether it’s music, dialogue, or sound effects, with the highest quality possible. They are experts in their field and specialize solely in recording.

The role of a game and audio design engineer is to create immersive audio experiences for video games. They work with sound engineers to incorporate sound into the game, ensuring it’s a seamless part of the overall experience.

Mix engineers are responsible for combining multiple audio tracks into a single cohesive production. They must have a strong understanding of balance, dynamics, and panning to create a polished final mix.

The final step in the production process is mastering, and that’s where mastering engineers come in. They work to fine-tune the mix engineer’s work and make sure the final product is ready for distribution.

A live sound engineer is the person responsible for ensuring that the sound at live events is of the highest quality. They work to ensure the sound is balanced, clear, and accurately represents the artists’ performances.

At live events, monitor engineers work closely with live sound engineers to make sure the artists can hear themselves on stage. This is crucial for maintaining the quality of the performance and ensuring the artists can hear what they’re saying or singing.

A systems engineer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the sound system at live events. They manage live sound engineers and monitor engineers, and are responsible for setting up and testing the entire sound system before the event starts.

An audio post engineer is responsible for editing and mixing audio for television and movie productions. They must have a strong understanding of both technical and creative aspects of sound production to deliver a polished final product.

As is described in this article, becoming an audio engineer isn’t exactly easy. It takes years of studying and learning hands-on, but it isn’t impossible! The experts at The Pro Audio Files have shared a few tips that should be helpful for anyone who is either about to learn the ins and outs of audio engineering or who has already started and could use a bit of advice.

It is critical for a sound engineer to ensure that the instruments they are working with sound great. You can be the most skilled sound engineer in the world, but without high-quality instruments, it will be impossible to achieve exceptional sound. It’s essential to understand the unique qualities of each instrument and how to get the most out of them in order to produce the best possible sound.

As a beginner in the field of sound engineering, it can be tempting to try to learn everything at once about all the products and technology on the market. However, it’s best to start small and not get overwhelmed. Focus on learning a few things at a time and gradually building your knowledge and expertise over time. This will help you to become a well-rounded sound engineer in the long run.

It is imperative to read the manuals for the technology you’re using in order to make the most out of it. While it may seem like a tedious task, reading manuals will provide you with valuable information about the products you’re working with, and help you to avoid common pitfalls. This will save you time and help you achieve better results in your work.

Learning and perfecting sound can be a long and challenging journey, but it’s important not to get frustrated and give up. Take your time, be patient, and keep practicing. The more time you put into learning and perfecting your craft, the more you’ll get out of it throughout your career.

To become a successful sound engineer, it’s crucial to focus on learning. Observing and listening to other sound engineers in the field can provide valuable insights and help you to develop your skills. This is a great way to expand your knowledge and learn new techniques, even if you’re not directly involved in the production process.

Plugins are tools just like microphones and instruments, and it’s important to treat them as such. Rather than collecting a large number of plugins, it’s best to limit your collection and focus on a select few. Get to know each one inside and out, understand their limitations, and learn how to exploit them to achieve the best possible results.

Those who dive headfirst into learning how to become an audio engineer will soon discover that there is a lot of terminology that is new…and which can be rather confusing. This is the case in any technical or scientific field, and one must understand what they all mean before grasping the full range of topics covered in the role.

Here’s a rundown of 20 common words used in the field of audio engineering that might be alien to those who are just getting started.

The branch of physics concerned with the study of sound and its transmission through air or other media. It is mainly focused on understanding the behavior and properties of sound waves in enclosed spaces, such as auditoriums, theaters, and studios. The science of acoustics helps to determine the optimal design of these spaces in order to produce the best possible sound quality.

The range of sound signals that are audible to the human ear. Measured in Hertz (Hz).

Unwanted sounds that are present in the environment and not related to the sound being recorded or analyzed. This can include various types of noise such as airborne, structure-borne, and instrument noise.

The span of frequencies contained within a signal, often used to describe the range of frequencies that can be transmitted or received by a device. It is a measure of the capacity of a communication channel to transmit data.

Clipping is a form of distortion that happens when an amplifier is pushed to its limits, causing the waveform to exceed its normal range. The result is a harsh and jagged sound, characterized by an excess of high-frequency energy.

Compression refers to the process of reducing the dynamic range of a sound. This is typically done to control the loudest parts of a recording, allowing quieter sounds to be more audible in the final mix.

A Digital Audio Workstation, or DAW, is a computer-based system that is used to record, edit, and manipulate audio. It allows the user to perform a wide range of sound design and mixing tasks, making it an essential tool for modern music production.

A decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement that is used to express the relative power or sensitivity of a sound. It is a logarithmic ratio, meaning that small changes in dB can represent large differences in actual sound level.

Distortion refers to any deviation from the original signal that occurs during the production or playback of sound. There are many different forms of distortion, including harmonic, intermodulation, and waveform distortion, each of which can affect the sound in unique and audible ways.

An equalizer (EQ) is an audio software tool that enables you to identify different sound frequencies and then amplify or reduce them according to your requirements. It allows you to fine-tune the sound levels of each frequency to get the desired effect.

It is a phenomenon that occurs when a sound loop is created between an audio input, such as a microphone, and an audio output, such as a loudspeaker. The sound captured by the microphone is amplified and sent back through the loudspeaker, leading to a repeated cycle.

It refers to the number of vibrations a signal undergoes in one second, expressed in Hertz (Hz) or cycles per second (cps). The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch of the sound.

It is a measurement of the amplification level of an audio device, expressed as the ratio of the output signal level to the input signal level, in decibels (dB).

A unit of measurement for frequency, Hertz represents the number of cycles a signal vibrates in one second.

It is a measure of amplitude in decibels, expressed as the ratio of an acoustic quantity to a reference quantity.

The Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) is a protocol that allows different musical instruments and digital devices to communicate with and control each other. This includes synthesizers, computers, drum machines, and other processors.

An essential piece of equipment in the audio industry, enabling the blending of multiple audio sources. It provides separate control over the volume, tone, and stereo placement of each signal, making it a crucial tool for achieving the desired sound.

A term used to describe a doubling or halving of a frequency. The bottom octave, which ranges from 20Hz to 40Hz, is often considered the most critical as each octave added on the bottom requires the speakers to move four times more air.

Refers to the fundamental frequency of a musical note. It is an essential aspect of music that determines the tone and musical key of a sound.

A software application that enhances the capabilities and functionalities of a host system. Plugins provide additional tools and features to the software, allowing users to extend its capabilities beyond the original software design.

Listed below are some specific jobs audio engineers can have, with a focus on the high-paying options for those who can reach that level. These positions come with descriptions and salary ranges (based on this data), providing a glimpse into the potential earnings and responsibilities within the field of audio engineering.

Salary range: $143,000 – $167,000

At the forefront of signal processing, the DSP engineer (digital signal processing engineer) dedicates their efforts to the development of algorithms that drive the realm of signal processing. Immersed in a diverse range of projects, their expertise finds applications in telecommunications, audio, video, space exploration, medical imaging, and beyond. This is far more technical than most audio engineer jobs, and thus the pay is usually higher.

Salary range: $78,500 – $132,500

When you embark on a path as an acoustical engineer, your focus lies in the art of managing and applying vibrations that give birth to the world of sound within real-life scenarios. Collaborating closely with architects, acoustical engineers lend their expertise to the architectural design process, shaping the blueprint of buildings with a precise aim: to govern the intricate dance of sound diffraction, refraction, absorption, and reverberation. In this collaboration, these engineers strive to create spaces where sound obeys the laws of harmony, resulting in environments that beautifully balance acoustics and functionality. Again, this is highly technical work, so if you go down this road, you’ll be paid accordingly.

Salary range: $81,000 – $127,500

In the telecommunications industry, voice engineers take center stage, orchestrating the design and implementation of cutting-edge systems tailored for the seamless integration of VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) and telephone-related technologies. With their expertise, they assume the crucial responsibility of designing, installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting voice communication systems. Their diligent efforts pave the way for efficient and reliable voice networks that facilitate seamless connections and uninterrupted conversations.

Salary range: $41,500 – $121,500

In the context of audio engineering, a balance engineer refers to an individual who is responsible for achieving the desired balance of sound sources and elements in a recording or live sound environment. The primary goal of a balance engineer is to ensure that the various audio elements blend well together and are appropriately positioned in the stereo field. They use their expertise and technical skills to create a balanced and pleasing auditory experience for the listener.

Salary range: $70,000 – $95,000

In film and television production, there exists a critical role known as the supervising sound editor, or audio supervisor. These skilled individuals bear the weighty responsibility of crafting the ultimate auditory experience for audiences. Their meticulous work entails far more than meets the eye, or rather, the ear. Through a careful curation process, the sound editor/audio supervisor must handpick, refine, and seamlessly interweave three fundamental components: the captured dialogue, the resonating sound effects, and the harmonious melodies. Only through this intricate alchemy can the disparate elements coalesce into a unified, immersive soundtrack, ready to captivate viewers and transport them into the world of the screen.

Audio signal processing professionals dedicate their expertise and use well-learned techniques to enable the electronic manipulation of sound waves. These groundbreaking algorithms serve as the core of various audio production marvels, including but not limited to reverberation, transformative Auto-Tune capabilities, and cutting-edge perceptual coding methods like MP3 or Opus.

Alternatively, these algorithms they develop may also excel in performing tasks such as echo cancellation, or meticulously analyzing and categorizing audio content through the musical information retrieval and acoustic fingerprinting. Through their efforts, audio engineers revolutionize the way we interact with and experience sound.

The captivating world of architectural acoustics delves into the realms of science and engineering, aiming to master the art of creating an optimal auditory environment within a given space. Its principles are of utmost importance to audio engineers who strive to achieve impeccable speech intelligibility within vast stadiums or elevate the musical experience within theaters or other concert venues. It is through the craftsmanship of acoustic consultants that the design of architectural acoustics takes shape, blending scientific precision with artistic finesse.

Electroacoustics encompasses a myriad of disciplines, all centered around the intricate design and implementation of various audio technologies. From the sleek and immersive world of headphones to the sensitive and precise microphone industry, electroacoustics engineers are tasked with creating cutting-edge solutions. They craft sophisticated loudspeakers that bring sound to life, design impeccable sound reproduction systems, and develop innovative recording technologies that capture the essence of every moment.

These professionals may work on a diverse range of consumer-facing applications, ranging from portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, portable media players, and tablet computers to the intricacies of sound systems within architectural acoustics.

Musical acoustics, a subdiscipline within audio engineering, delves into the scientific exploration of music. It encompasses various facets, including the design of electronic instruments, the study of the physics and neurophysiology of singing, physical modeling of musical instruments, room acoustics in concert venues, music information retrieval, music therapy, and the perception and cognition of music.

By bridging the realms of science and art, musical acoustics deepens our understanding of music, fosters innovation in audio technologies, and illuminates the profound impact music has on our lives, intertwining scientific principles with the enchantment of musical expression.

Psychoacoustics is really all about sonic perception. This scientific arena unravels the intricacies of human responses to auditory stimuli. At the very core of audio engineering lies a profound realization: the listeners themselves become the ultimate arbiters of success, rendering their verdict on the immersive qualities of binaural recordings and other audio designs.

In audio engineering, the intricate world of speech production, computer processing, and auditory reception takes center stage. Diving headfirst into how speech is transmitted with clarity, optimizing efficiency, and attaining impeccable audio fidelity becomes the focal point of this specific field. Whether it be the acoustic ambience of a room, the seamless dissemination of speech through public address systems, or the optimization of speech quality in mobile telephone systems, these are all paramount subjects that engross the scholarly minds of audio engineers. Speech factors into many of the subdisciplines of audio engineering, but it is so important, it actually has its own sub-field as well.