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Sonic Design / Project 1: Audio Fundamentals

26/04/2024 - 17/05/2024 / (Week 1 - Week 4)
Derin / 0354969 / Design in Creative Media
VSA 60204 / SONIC DESIGN
Project 1: Audio Fundamentals


INSTRUCTIONS

   

Project 1: Audio Fundamentals - Individual (20%)
Students are given series of exercises that develop their sound design sensibilities by increasing their technical proficiency and knowledge. Students will be given several tasks to analyze and manipulate sound properties through the use of sound editing software to fit to a desired
scenario.

Deadline:
Due each week

LECTURES

Week 1

Mr. Razif briefed us about the introduction to Sonic Design and the tasks that would be needed to be accomplished throughout the semester. Adobe Audition will be the main software used for this module. The key to good sound design in films is to be detailed oriented. For final project, we are to create a game sound.

Week 2

Mr. Razif showed the class a video about the measurement of sound.

The Difference Between Amplitude and Frequency: Sound Explained - Rocky MTN Ruby
Fig 1.0 The measurement of sound

Wavelength is the distance between any point on a wave and the equivalent point on the next phase. Literally, the length of the wave.

Amplitude is the strength or power of a wave signal. The "height" of a wave when viewed as a graph. Higher amplitudes are interpreted as a higher volume, hence the name "amplifier" for a device that increases amplitude.

Frequency is the number of times the wavelength occurs in one second. Measured in kilohertz (Khz), or cycles per second. The faster the sound source vibrates, the higher the frequency.  Higher frequencies are interpreted as a higher pitch. For example, when you sing in a high-pitched voice you are forcing your vocal chords to vibrate quickly.

There are 6 Properties of Sound:

  1. Pitch
  2. Loudness: bit depth
  3. Timbre: The quality of sound. (For instance, 2 different brands of guitar with the same string would sound different)
  4. Perceived duration: Fast-paced, slow-paced or in moderation. (metronome, biological rhythm: heartbeat)
  5. Envelope: Determine the shape of sound.
  6. Spatialization: Sense of location, distance, left or right of microphone, or making it sound distanced or near.

Afterward, Mr. Razif gave us a link to find out our tinnitus tone.

Fig 1.1 Finding our tinnitus tone



PROJECT 1: AUDIO FUNDAMENTALS

Exercise 1

Fig 2.0 Sound files for exercise 1

In this exercise, we are given a flat original soundtrack and eight edited sound files. Students are to identify which part of the soundtrack doesn't match the original. This exercise is done using Adobe Audition. Starting off, Mr. Razif explained about the configuration window that pops up upon creating a multitrack session.

Fig 2.1 Multritrack session configuration

We are taught to use Parameter Equalizer to adjust the frequency of the sound. The following is the steps to apply the equalizer.

Fig 2.2 Parameter Equalizer

 

Final Outcome

The following are my results for Exercise 1.

Equalizer 1

Fig 2.3 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 1

Equalizer 2

Fig 2.4 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 2

Equalizer 3

Fig 2.5 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 3

Equalizer 4

Fig 2.6 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 4

Equalizer 5

Fig 2.7 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 5

Equalizer 6

Fig 2.8 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 6

Equalizer 7

Fig 2.9 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 7

Equalizer 8

Fig 2.10 Exercise 1 - Equalizer 8

 

Exercise 2

Fig 3.0 Sound files for exercise 2

Mr. Razif shared a zip file containing three sound files. For this exercise, we were required to edit the sample_voice.mp3 to create the impression of different environments using a parameter equalizer: inside a closet, on a phone call, through a walkie-talkie, in a bathroom stall, and in a stadium.

I encountered some difficulties in creating the sound effects and initially mixed up some of the environments. However, with constructive feedback, I was able to successfully complete the exercise.


Final Outcome

The following are my results for Exercise 2

Inside a Closet

 

 Fig 3.1 Exercise 2 - Inside a Closet


On a Phone Call

 

 Fig 3.2 Exercise 2 - On a Phone Call


Through a Walkie-Talkie

 

Fig 3.3 Exercise 2 -Through a Walkie-Talkie


In a Bathroom Stall

 

Fig 3.4 Exercise 2 - EQ, In a Bathroom Stall

Fig 3.5 Exercise 2 - Reverb, In a Bathroom Stall


In a Stadium


Fig 3.6 Exercise 2 - EQ, In a Stadium

Fig 3.7 Exercise 2 - Reverb, In a Stadium

 

Exercise 3

For Exercise 3, Mr. Razif provided two pieces of environment scenes and assigned us the task of creating the environmental ambiance for each image. This involved using existing sound effects found online to accurately represent the atmosphere depicted in the scenes. The goal was to match the visual elements from the environments with corresponding auditory elements.


Scene 1 

Fig 4.0 Environment Scene 1

Before starting on creating the environmental ambience, I first examine the scene. The image depicts a futuristic laboratory or industrial scene with several key visual elements:

  1. Advanced Machinery: Dominating the scene is a large, complex machine with numerous pipes, cables, and mechanical components. This machinery suggests a high-tech environment, possibly for research or manufacturing.

  2. Laser Beam: A prominent blue laser beam is emanating from the machinery, directed at a specific target. This indicates the machinery is active and possibly performing some high-energy process.

  3. Scientists/Technicians: There are several figures dressed in lab coats, indicating they are scientists or technicians. Two figures are standing close to the machine, one holding a notepad? Possibly monitoring the laser beam.

  4. Holographic Displays: Blue holographic displays with various symbols and data points are floating near the machine, suggesting advanced technology and possibly an augmented reality interface used by the scientists to interact with the machinery.

  5. Industrial Setting: The background shows a spacious, industrial environment with large pipes, metal structures, and an overall utilitarian design. The lighting is dim with a cool, blue-green hue, adding to the high-tech, somewhat sterile atmosphere.

Overall, the image conveys a sense of advanced technology and scientific exploration, set in a high-tech industrial environment.

From there, I proceeded to collect sound effects that fits the narrative of the scene. Beginning with the selection of ambient sounds to establish the scene's backdrop. Next, I selected key sounds like laser beams and futuristic effects. The outcome evolved into a narrative story line with a build up to it.

Fig 4.1 Multitrack Workspace for Scene 1

 

Final Outcome

The following is the outcome for Exercise 3, scene 1.

 

 Scene 2

 Fig 4.2 Environment Scene 2

ame as in scene 1, I first examine the scene. The image depicts a futuristic laboratory or research facility with several notable visual elements:

  1. Central Containment Unit: The focal point is a large, cylindrical containment unit filled with a glowing green liquid and a large tree or plant growing inside. This suggests advanced botanical or biological research, possibly involving genetic engineering or environmental studies.

  2. Military Personnel: Two figures in uniform, armed with guns, are standing near the containment unit.

  3. Advanced Technology: The surrounding environment features high-tech equipment, including computer terminals, control panels, and various machinery. This suggests a sophisticated and technologically advanced setting.

  4. Industrial Setting: The laboratory has a large, industrial design with metallic structures, overhead pipes, and a spacious layout. The lighting is a mix of natural light filtering through the ceiling and artificial lighting, creating a balanced and well-lit environment.

  5. Environmental Theme: The green hues and the presence of the plant in the containment unit suggest a focus on environmental or ecological research. The emblem on the wall with a tree symbol further reinforces this theme.

  6. Supporting Equipment: Alongside the main containment unit, there are other cylindrical tanks with similar glowing green contents, indicating multiple experiments or studies being conducted simultaneously.

  7. Seating and Observation Area: There is a chair positioned near the containment unit, suggesting a designated area for observation or control.

Overall, the image conveys a high-tech research facility focused on advanced botanical or biological experiments, with a strong emphasis on environmental studies and sophisticated technological equipment.

From there, I proceeded to collect sound effects that fit the narrative of the scene. I began by selecting ambient sounds to establish the scene's backdrop. Next, I chose key sounds like the military personnel's' footsteps and equipment,  the rustling of leaves, and various futuristic effects. To ensure the leaves' sound was audible, I incorporated the sound of a door opening. This all came together to create a story with a gradual build-up. I think scene 2 had more depth compared to Scene 1.


 Fig 4.3 Multitrack Workspace for Scene 2


Final Outcome

The following is the outcome for Exercise 3, scene 2.


REFLECTION

Reflecting on my recent work, I've been thinking about how I bring stories to life with sound effects throughout this exercise. Choosing the right sound effects isn't just about picking cool noises; it's about making the ambience feel like they're really there. Whether it's the background ambience or the key sounds, every choice matters. It's all about paying attention to the little things to make the big picture more immersive. Moving forward, I'm excited to keep learning and improving, making even more engaging experiences for audiences to enjoy.


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