5 Tips for Becoming a Sound Engineer

The combination of a love of music and the desire for technically smooth sound is the perfect mix for a career in sound engineering. The focus on the mechanics and mixing of a particular sound sets sound engineers apart from producers.

In audio engineering, art and science meld, making it vital for a sound engineer to have both a critical ear and a systematic method for the work. If you are a lover of music while also possessing a technical awareness, here are some tips for breaking into the world of sound engineering.

1. Understand the Basics of Sound

Obviously, an audio engineer must have an in-depth knowledge of anything and everything to do with music technology. The best way to get this knowledge is an easy-to-follow and complete online course. Mixcademy is the perfect online course for the basics of sound, plus all the ins and outs of the industry.

From understanding frequency, to choosing the best microphone, editing audio, or setting up for a gig, Mixcademy is your go-to source for all things sound.

2. Learn how Electronics Work

Both software and hardware need to be considered in the world of sound engineering. Flexibility is essential when working with studios and artists since the environment and systems used can greatly vary.

The answer? Experience. Find free trials of tools and systems used in sound engineering and play around. Although it may feel like a failure at first, learning by doing is sometimes the best teacher.

3. Learn About Music Through a Mentor

Sound engineering is a creative career, but it also requires supreme discipline since feedback is rare. This lack of measurable achievement can make gauging your progress a challenge. Take the time to find a good mentor.

A seasoned audio engineer will save you hours of research and trial-by-error labor. Not only that, the music industry is all about who you know, and an expert engineer can help your career networking get off the ground. Finding a mentor can be done through social media, email, or by simply sending a great demo to someone you admire in the industry.

4. Go After It!

Starting out in the business means working long hours at a less-than-great pay just to get competitive in the industry. Once you prove that you do great work, your professionalism and talent will be your best advertisement for more work. Even though it may mean doing some initial jobs for free, the experience of using a real studio or live locale are invaluable.

5. Get an Education in Sound Engineering

Launching audio engineering from your pastime to a career may seem intimidating, but just like in the job itself, following step by step processes is the way to get the best result. The most cost-effective and low-risk first step is to enroll in Mixcademy. Not only will you learn all you need to know in sound, but you’ll also discern why you love music and ensure that this is the career path for you.

When you join Mixcademy, you’ll become part of a community that teaches you about being a great team player in a live production environment. We’ll teach you how to mix your love for music and your keen ear for the technical side of the industry into perfect harmony.

Ready to improve your sound engineering skills? Click here for our Mixcademy course