MUS 117 - Sound Recording History and Process

(2 units)

The History & Process of Sound Recording traces the evolution of audio recording from early experiments to modern practice. It introduces analog and digital technologies and formats, and explains core tools and concepts—microphones, recorders, signal flow, and consumer playback systems. Students study key pioneers and review professional studio workflow, roles, and terminology. Critical listening is developed through weekly guided analysis of exemplar recordings.

Maximum units a student may earn: 2

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 2
Offered: Every Fall and Spring

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. trace major milestones in recording history by chronologically placing key inventions, formats, trends, and practices and explaining how each changed recording capabilities and cultural impact.
2. differentiate analog and digital recording systems by comparing core signal paths, storage mechanisms, and failure modes, while comparing each system’s pros and cons.
3. select and justify microphone choices for common uses by classifying microphones by family, polar pattern, price ranges and matching them to typical recording applications.
4. map modern record production workflows by outlining the standard stages from demo through final delivery and identifying the responsibilities, expectations, and etiquette associated with core studio roles.
5. perform structured critical listening by identifying instrumentation and describing levels, balance, and stand out effects in guided listening examples using consistent, discipline-appropriate terminology.

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