Spatial Audio & Surround Sound - TFT00095M
Module summary
An exploration of the technical and creative opportunities of spatial audio through the study of a variety of formats, and including recording and mixing techniques.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 2 2023-24 |
Module aims
The module aims:
- To introduce the basic concepts of spatial hearing, recording, production and surround-sound reproduction.
- To explore the possibilities and limitations offered by many of the common surround-sound formats found across the industry and wider field.
- To explore the creative possibilities of working with multi-channel audio and surround-sound reproduction across different formats and delivery media.
- To experiment with surround-sound location recording.
- To develop an appreciation of spatial audio research and how it works with, informs, and is driven by industry requirements.
- To work towards the completion of a major surround-sound work that must at least in part be informed by or adhere to current industry formats.
Module learning outcomes
Upon completion of this module you are expected to be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of human auditory localisation mechanisms.
- Demonstrate an understanding of spatial audio concepts.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the most commonly used surround-sound delivery and playback formats.
- Compare and contrast spatial audio recording techniques
- Plan, carry out, edit and make use of location based multi-channel audio recordings.
- Arrange, produce, demonstrate and author surround-sound audio works.
- Highlight key directions for future spatial audio research.
- Support your creative output with comprehensive and reasoned technical documentation as well as a reflective analysis of the finished work.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam | 30 |
| Practical | 70 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
Formative feedback is provided on a weekly basis through practical sessions and through tasks set for you to complete.
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam | 30 |
| Practical | 70 |
Module feedback
You will receive feedback every week through formative tasks designed to monitor your progress. Formal feedback on the summative assessment is submitted in the summer semester. You will receive written feedback in line with standard University turnaround times.
Indicative reading
Please note that much more detailed reading suggestions will be circulated throughout the module.
Kerins, M. (2010). Beyond Dolby (Stereo): Cinema in the Digital Sound Age. Indiana University Press.
Rumsey, F. (2001). Spatial Audio. Focal Press.
Roginska, A and Geluso, P. (2017). Immersive Sound: The Art and Science of Binaural and Multi-channel Audio. Routledge.