Sound Recording for Film and Audiovisual Media

Practice flashcards covering microphone theory, on-set roles, equipment types, and technical standards for production sound recording.

What is the fundamental distinction between Sound Recording and Sound Creation?

Sound Recording happens in real time during filming, where decisions on microphone choice and placement have long-term consequences. Sound Creation occurs in post-production, where sound designers, foley artists, and composers manipulate audio.

What is the role of the Production Sound Mixer?

The Production Sound Mixer is the head of the sound department, responsible for the quality and usability of all recorded sound, choosing equipment, monitoring levels, and managing timecode synchronisation.

What are the four components of the audio signal chain in film production?

1. Sound Source (acoustic energy), 2. Microphone (converts energy into electrical signal), 3. Cables & Preamp (carries and raises the signal level), 4. Audio Recorder (converts analog to digital and stores the file).

How is a microphone's diaphragm defined in the transduction process?

The diaphragm is a thin membrane that vibrates when sound waves reach the microphone, mirroring variations in air pressure to convert acoustic energy into electrical energy.

What is the standard operating power requirement for condenser microphones?

Condenser microphones require external power, typically phantom power ($+48\,volts$), supplied through XLR cables.

How does the interference tube on a shotgun microphone create a directional 'beam' of sound?

Front sound waves travel straight down the tube to the capsule, while side sound waves enter through slots at different times, causing phase cancellation.

What are the three layers of wind protection used for microphones on set?

1. Foam Windscreen (light air), 2. Blimp or Windshield (rigid shell for exterior recording), and 3. Deadcat (furry cover for strong wind).

What are the industry standards for Sample Rate and Bit Depth in video production?

The standard sample rate is $48\,kHz$ and the standard bit depth is $24$ bits.

What is the difference between Gain and Volume in recording?

Gain (or trim) is the initial amplification at the input stage that affects the signal strength being recorded. Volume refers to the monitoring level (in headphones) and does not alter the recorded signal.

What is digital clipping and at what threshold does it occur?

Digital clipping is harsh, irreparable distortion that results when a signal exceeds the definitive upper threshold of $0\,dBFS$.

According to the lecture transcript, what are the target dialogue peaks and average levels?

Target dialogue peaks are between $320\,dBFS$ and $36\,dBFS$, with average levels maintained around $312\,dBFS$.

How do balanced XLR cables resist noise and interference?

They use three conductors; interference affecting the signal conductors equally is cancelled out at the input through common-mode rejection.

What is the four-step workflow for wireless frequency coordination on set?

1. Set the first system to a clean frequency and leave it on; 2. Scan the next receiver for an available frequency; 3. Match the corresponding transmitter; 4. Repeat for all systems.

What is the function of SMPTE timecode in film production?

SMPTE timecode provides a precise timestamp in the format HH:MM:SS:FF to every frame of video and audio, allowing them to be accurately synchronized in post-production.

What is the process of 'jam sync' in timecode management?

Jam sync is the process where one device acts as a master clock and other devices, such as cameras, are 'jammed' to that reference to copy and follow the same timecode.