Ask A Scientist© Engineering Archive

Index Key:   ENG069
Author:      eric levin
Subject:     Music/audio engineers.
What type of engineer mixes the sound on music albums?

Response #:  1 of 1
Author:      rickru
While I am sure there are a variety of backgrounds for individuals in that
profession, I think you would find that the majority are not really "engi-
neers" in the classic sense of the word.  My experience in working with
music (I am a self employed music director) is that such individuals usually
start with some sort of musical training, but in the end having a good ear
(or two) for beautiful sound and at least a "users-knowledge" of the
workings of the equipment, along with the necessary connections would
describe many of such individual's backgrounds.  You will naturally find
people with substantially more or less training or expertise in any of the
above components, and will probably even find certified engineers in the
group.  My suspicion is that a thorough knowledge of the physics of sound
and acoustics would serve as a good place to start.  If you would like more
information I would simply write to the address of a recording company
listed on your average cd (or record) case, asking similar questions.