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Robert Clark
and
Mark Bocko
In this course students learn the basic concepts of acoustics and electronics and how they can applied to understand musical sound and make music with electronic instruments. Topics include: sound waves, musical sound, basic electronics, and applications of these basic principles in amplifiers and speaker design.
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OpenCourser.com/course/gvea7f/fundamentals
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Syllabus
Week 1 - Introduction RC & Introduction to Electrical Circuits MB
Introduction to oscillations and sound waves, simple oscillating systems, sound pressure, sound waves, the speed of sound, wavelength, frequency and pitch, sound pressure level, loudness, making sound, properties of musical sound versus “noise”. Electronics fundamentals - charge, current, voltage, power, resistance, Ohm’s law, DC circuits, finding currents and voltages in simple circuits.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1 - Introduction RC & Introduction to Electrical Circuits MB
Introduction to oscillations and sound waves, simple oscillating systems, sound pressure, sound waves, the speed of sound, wavelength, frequency and pitch, sound pressure level, loudness, making sound, properties of musical sound versus “noise”. Electronics fundamentals - charge, current, voltage, power, resistance, Ohm’s law, DC circuits, finding currents and voltages in simple circuits.
Read more
Week 2 - Acoustic Resonance RC & Electrical Circuits MB
Reflection and absorption of sound, resonances in air columns, resonances in enclosures and rooms, diffraction and diffusion of sound, reverberation, principles of designing a good music studio. AC signals, phase and complex numbers, capacitors, inductors, transformers, impedance, AC circuits and AC circuit analysis, simple filters (high-pass, low-pass, band-pass)
Week 3 - Some Necessary Mathematics MB & AC Circuit Analysis
Transistors, vacuum tubes, opamps, amplification, power gain, single-stage amplifiers.
Converting sound to electrical signals –microphones and guitar pickups, converting electrical signals to sound – loudspeakers
Week 4 - AC Signals & Loudspeakers and Radiation RC
Electric guitar electronics, pickup design, pickup placement and tone, volume control circuits, tone control circuits. Overview of a simple guitar amplifier, power supply, volume control, preamp, tone control, power amp section.
Week 5 - Closed Box Loudspeaker Design RC & Ported Loudspeaker Design
Designing speaker enclosures, basic principles, interaction of speaker driver with the cabinet, why a cabinet at all? Speaker designs for home stereo, crossover networks, guitar amplifier (open) speaker enclosures, bass amplifier (closed and vented) speaker enclosures.
Week 6 - Guitar Pickup and Effects Analysis MB & Design and Construction of a Guitar Amplifier MB
Building the guitar amplifier, how to solder, getting the amp to work - systematic testing and troubleshooting. Visualizing sound waves, frequency content and tone, signal modification in electro-acoustic systems, tube amplifiers and distortion, wah pedal, talk box.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops knowledge and skills in modern electronics, sound engineering, and acoustics, which may prove foundational for learners who want to study higher-level audio and music engineering in the future
Emphasizes hands-on application by engaging learners to build an amplifier themselves
Taught by Robert Clark and Mark Bocko, who are recognized experts in the field of music and acoustics
Offers a solid foundation in the fundamentals of acoustics and electronics, making it suitable for beginners who have little to no prior knowledge in these areas
Builds a strong foundation for learners who aspire to explore the fields of music technology, audio engineering, and sound design
Covers a wide range of topics, from sound waves and musical sound to basic electronics and applications in amplifiers and speaker design
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Reviews summary
Introductory music and engineering fundamentals
According to students, this course on music and engineering fundamentals offers engaging content, but requires Math knowledge. Learners describe the course as well organized and interesting, but difficult for those without a strong math background. Despite this, students commend the practical application of building a guitar amplifier. Overall, learners say this course is well suited to those with a solid foundation in math, particularly complex numbers and calculus.
Content is interesting.
Can build guitar amplifier.
"you are encouraged to build your own guitar amplifier"
Assumes math knowledge.
"The level of maths is higher than they suggest, you do need to be familiar with complex numbers and calculus."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Fundamentals of Audio and Music Engineering: Part 1 Musical Sound & Electronics with these
activities:
Review basic algebra and trigonometry concepts.
Show steps
Ensure you have a strong foundation in these prerequisite topics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Review your notes from previous math courses.
-
Take practice problems online or in a textbook.
-
Get help from a tutor or online resources if needed.
Review the basics of electricity and electronics.
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of these key concepts from basic physics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Review your notes from previous physics courses.
-
Take practice problems online or in a textbook.
-
Get help from a tutor or online resources if needed.
Review 'The Science of Sound'
Show steps
Establish a firm grasp of the fundamental concepts in this course before you begin.
View
The Science of Sound, 3rd Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapters 1 through 3 of the book.
-
Take notes on the key concepts and definitions.
-
Complete the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Complete the Coursera tutorial on 'Introduction to Sound and Music'
Show steps
Test and refine your understanding of the basic principles of sound.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Watch the video lectures.
-
Complete the interactive exercises.
-
Take the quizzes at the end of each module.
Solve 20 problems on sound waves and their properties.
Show steps
Strengthen your problem-solving skills in acoustics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Find a set of practice problems online or in a textbook.
-
Solve the problems step-by-step.
-
Check your answers against the provided solutions.
Join a study group and discuss the course material.
Show steps
Engage with other learners and clarify your understanding.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Find a study group or create your own.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
-
Work together on problem sets and projects.
Create a presentation on the applications of sound in music and electronics.
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of the practical applications of acoustics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
-
Research the applications of sound in music and electronics.
-
Create a PowerPoint presentation or Prezi.
-
Include visuals, graphs, and examples to illustrate your points.
-
Practice your presentation.
Review basic algebra and trigonometry concepts.
Show steps
Ensure you have a strong foundation in these prerequisite topics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from previous math courses.
- Take practice problems online or in a textbook.
- Get help from a tutor or online resources if needed.
Review the basics of electricity and electronics.
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of these key concepts from basic physics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from previous physics courses.
- Take practice problems online or in a textbook.
- Get help from a tutor or online resources if needed.
Review 'The Science of Sound'
Show steps
Establish a firm grasp of the fundamental concepts in this course before you begin.
View
The Science of Sound, 3rd Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapters 1 through 3 of the book.
- Take notes on the key concepts and definitions.
- Complete the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Complete the Coursera tutorial on 'Introduction to Sound and Music'
Show steps
Test and refine your understanding of the basic principles of sound.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch the video lectures.
- Complete the interactive exercises.
- Take the quizzes at the end of each module.
Solve 20 problems on sound waves and their properties.
Show steps
Strengthen your problem-solving skills in acoustics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a set of practice problems online or in a textbook.
- Solve the problems step-by-step.
- Check your answers against the provided solutions.
Join a study group and discuss the course material.
Show steps
Engage with other learners and clarify your understanding.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or create your own.
- Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
- Work together on problem sets and projects.
Create a presentation on the applications of sound in music and electronics.
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of the practical applications of acoustics.
Browse courses on
Sound Waves
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the applications of sound in music and electronics.
- Create a PowerPoint presentation or Prezi.
- Include visuals, graphs, and examples to illustrate your points.
- Practice your presentation.
Career center
Learners who complete Fundamentals of Audio and Music Engineering: Part 1 Musical Sound & Electronics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Audio Engineer
Audio Engineer
An Audio Engineer is responsible for capturing, recording, mixing, and reproducing sound. Whether for live events, film, television, music, or podcasts, Audio Engineers combine artistic expression with a strong technical understanding of sound. This course covers basic acoustics, electronics, and the design of amplifiers and speakers, preparing you for a career in Audio Engineering by building a foundational knowledge of the field.
Acoustical Engineer
Acoustical Engineer
Acoustical Engineers apply physics and mathematics to control and optimize sound. They are essential to designing and evaluating various spaces including concert halls, churches, theaters, classrooms, offices, and more. Building upon the detailed discussion of sound waves and other core physics concepts, this course can help those seeking to become Acoustical Engineers develop the specialized knowledge in acoustics and electronics necessary to excel in the field.
Concert Sound Engineer
Concert Sound Engineer
Concert Sound Engineers are responsible for managing and optimizing the sound systems used in live music events. They work with musicians, artists, and other technicians to ensure the audience has an exceptional concert experience. By learning sound engineering principles and the nuances of designing speaker arrays, this course can provide aspiring Concert Sound Engineers with valuable knowledge.
Broadcast Engineer
Broadcast Engineer
A Broadcast Engineer designs, installs, and maintains equipment used in television, radio, film, and similar media. This equipment includes camera systems, transmitters, antennas, and consoles. The electronics and acoustics concepts taught in this course provide a strong foundation for those interested in becoming Broadcast Engineers.
Electronics Engineer
Electronics Engineer
Electronics Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and components. They work in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. This course teaches the fundamentals of electronics, including voltage, current, resistance, and capacitors, helping future Electronics Engineers establish a solid foundation in the field.
Music Producer
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. They work with musicians, artists, and engineers to create high-quality music recordings. This course provides a comprehensive overview of audio engineering principles and techniques, giving budding Music Producers the technical knowledge they need to succeed in the industry.
Film and Video Editor
Film and Video Editor
Film and Video Editors use specialized software to edit and assemble raw footage into a cohesive film or video production. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creatives to bring a film or video to life. This course provides a comprehensive overview of sound principles and the process of converting sound into electrical signals, which can be invaluable for Film and Video Editors seeking to enhance their understanding of audio in film and video production.
Musical Instrument Maker
Musical Instrument Maker
Musical Instrument Makers create and repair musical instruments, ranging from guitars and violins to pianos and drums. They use their knowledge of acoustics and electronics to ensure that instruments produce the desired sound and playability. This course covers the fundamentals of acoustics and electronics, providing a strong foundation for aspiring Musical Instrument Makers to understand the technical aspects of instrument design and construction.
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Music Teachers instruct students in the fundamentals of music, including theory, performance, and history. They also lead musical ensembles and choirs. This course provides a deep understanding of musical sound and the principles of acoustics, which can be highly beneficial for Music Teachers seeking to expand their knowledge and effectively teach music concepts to their students.
Physicist
Physicist
Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature and matter. They research topics such as quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and nuclear physics. While not directly related to the field of audio engineering, this course provides a solid foundation in the basic principles of physics, which can be valuable for Physicists seeking to specialize in acoustics or other related fields.
Sound Designer
Sound Designer
Sound Designers create and manipulate sounds for various media, including film, television, video games, and theater. They use their knowledge of acoustics and sound effects to enhance the emotional impact and overall experience of a production. This course provides a strong foundation in sound principles, electronics, and sound reinforcement, equipping aspiring Sound Designers with the technical skills they need to excel in the field.
Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing provide specialized instruction to students who are deaf or hard of hearing. They use various methods, including sign language, lip reading, and auditory training, to help students develop communication and academic skills. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sound and acoustics, which can be beneficial for Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing seeking to enhance their understanding of hearing and sound perception.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders. They work with individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. While primarily focused on the human voice and communication, this course provides valuable insights into the fundamentals of sound and acoustics, which can complement the knowledge base of aspiring Speech-Language Pathologists.
Technical Director
Technical Director
Technical Directors oversee the technical aspects of theater and live events. They manage lighting, sound, sets, and other technical elements to ensure a seamless and successful production. This course provides a strong foundation in sound principles and loudspeaker design, giving aspiring Technical Directors the technical knowledge they need to excel in the field.
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers create products and services that are easy to use and enjoyable. They research user needs, design prototypes, and conduct user testing to ensure that products meet the needs of their users. While not directly related to the field of audio engineering, this course provides a solid foundation in the principles of human perception and interaction, which can be valuable for User Experience Designers seeking to create products that provide an exceptional auditory experience.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/gvea7f/fundamentals
Reading list
We've selected 43 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Fundamentals of Audio and Music Engineering: Part 1 Musical Sound & Electronics.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of acoustics, covering topics such as sound waves, musical sound, basic electronics, and applications of these basic principles in amplifiers and speaker design.
Save
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the science of acoustics as it applies to music and audio. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of sound waves and psychoacoustics to the design of concert halls and recording studios.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the art and science of mastering audio. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of mastering to advanced techniques such as EQ, compression, and limiting.
Save
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the art and science of audio engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of acoustics to the design of high-quality audio systems.
Save
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the psychology of music. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of music perception to the latest research on music and emotion.
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the field of music and emotion. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of music perception to the latest research on music and the brain.
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the field of musical performance. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of musical performance to the latest research on teaching and learning music.
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the field of popular music. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of popular music to the latest research on popular music and culture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the physics of sound and how it is perceived by the human ear. It covers topics such as sound waves, musical sound, and the acoustics of rooms. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the science of sound.
Save
This textbook comprehensive introduction to the science of sound, covering topics such as wave propagation, sound sources, and the human auditory system. It valuable resource for students seeking a broad overview of acoustics.
Provides a detailed exploration of the physics of musical instruments and how they produce sound. It covers topics such as the vibration of strings, the acoustics of wind instruments, and the physics of the human voice. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the science of musical instruments.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of acoustics and their applications in various fields, including music, engineering, and medicine. It valuable resource for students seeking a deeper understanding of the practical applications of acoustics.
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the physics of music and sound. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of sound waves to the acoustics of musical instruments.
Save
Provides a practical introduction to the basics of electronics for musicians. It covers topics such as analog and digital circuits, amplifiers, filters, and effects pedals.
Textbook on electronics. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about electronics.
Practical guide to sound reinforcement, covering everything from basic principles to advanced techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who works with sound systems, from musicians and engineers to system designers and installers.
Classic textbook on electronics. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about electronics.
Comprehensive guide to the art and science of sound and music for computer games. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of sound design to the latest techniques in game audio.
Provides in-depth mathematics as it applies to music, with a focus on acoustics, sound, and pitch. May be a good supplementary text for students who have some background in the field.
Comprehensive guide to the electronics of guitars and guitar amplifiers. It covers everything from basic principles to advanced topics such as pickup design and amplifier troubleshooting. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how guitars and amplifiers work.
Provides a practical introduction to the basics of audio programming. It covers topics such as digital audio formats, sound synthesis, and audio effects.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the design and construction of guitar amplifiers. It valuable resource for students seeking to understand the technical aspects of guitar amplifiers.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of musical acoustics. It covers topics such as the physics of sound, the acoustics of musical instruments, and the perception of music.
Practical guide to guitar amplifiers, covering everything from basic principles to advanced topics such as amplifier design and troubleshooting. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how guitar amplifiers work.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the design and installation of sound systems. It valuable resource for students seeking to understand the practical aspects of sound system design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the physical principles of musical instruments. It covers topics such as the acoustics of musical instruments, the physics of sound, and the history of musical instruments.
Save
A monthly magazine covering the latest in electronic music technology and techniques.
Provides a practical introduction to the basics of audio electronics. It covers topics such as amplifiers, filters, and effects pedals.
A monthly magazine covering the latest in home audio and video technology.
A monthly magazine covering the latest in guitar and guitar playing techniques.
A monthly magazine covering the latest in keyboard and keyboard playing techniques.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the art and science of recording engineering. It covers topics such as the different types of microphones, the different types of recording equipment, and the techniques used to record and mix audio.
A quarterly journal covering the latest in computer music research and development.
A monthly journal covering the latest in sound and vibration research and development.
A monthly journal covering the latest in acoustics research and development.
Provides a practical introduction to the electronics of guitars and guitar amplifiers. It valuable resource for students seeking to understand the technical aspects of their instruments.
A quarterly journal covering the latest in audio engineering research and development.
A quarterly journal covering the latest in acoustics research and development.
Save
A monthly journal covering the latest in audio engineering research and development.
A monthly journal covering the latest in applied acoustics research and development.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, design, and construction of the guitar. It covers topics such as the different types of guitars, the materials used to make guitars, and the techniques used to build guitars.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, design, and construction of the synthesizer. It covers topics such as the different types of synthesizers, the materials used to make synthesizers, and the techniques used to build synthesizers.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of electronics. It valuable resource for students seeking a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of electronics.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/gvea7f/fundamentals
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Effort
12 hours of lectures and assignments
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Rochester
Instructors
Robert Clark
Mark Bocko
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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Good to know
Develops knowledge and skills in modern electronics, sound engineering, and acoustics, which may prove foundational for learners who want to study higher-level audio and music engineering in the future
Emphasizes hands-on application by engaging learners to build an amplifier themselves
Taught by Robert Clark and Mark Bocko, who are recognized experts in the field of music and acoustics
Offers a solid foundation in the fundamentals of acoustics and electronics, making it suitable for beginners who have little to no prior knowledge in these areas
Builds a strong foundation for learners who aspire to explore the fields of music technology, audio engineering, and sound design
Covers a wide range of topics, from sound waves and musical sound to basic electronics and applications in amplifiers and speaker design
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