Sound engineering is a discipline of engineering that studies the recording, mixing, and reproduction of movies, music, and theatre.
These experts employ technical devices to create high-quality recordings of speech, music, and sound effects in studios in order to create sounds for film, television, and radio. In recent times, a career as a Sound Engineer has been given great importance and is considered to be a part of major revenue-producing fields with the ongoing digitalisation and the rise in OTT platforms.
Some of the most reputed colleges offering courses in Sound Engineering include that of IIT Kharagpur, Film and Television Institute of India, National Institute of Film and Fine Arts, Asian Academy of Film and Television, Grosek Institute of Film Technology, and so on. The average course fee to become a sound engineer in India ranges between INR 40,000 - 8 LPA.
Sound engineers have a wide range of career opportunities in India. Sound engineers find lucrative employment opportunities in areas such as radio stations, TV channels, advertising firms, movies, and so on. The average salary for such professionals usually ranges between INR 2-10 LPA.
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- How to become a Sound Engineer : Quick Facts
- What does a Sound Engineer Do?
- Types of Sound Engineers
3.3 Research and Development Audio Engineer
5.2 Graduation Level Preparation
6.1 Diploma in Sound Engineering
6.3 BPA in Audio Engineering and Sound Programming
- Benefits of Career as a Sound Engineer
- Skills Required To Become a Sound Engineer
- Salary of a Sound Engineer in India
10.2 Specialization Wise
10.3 Experience Wise
How to become a sound Engineer: Quick Facts
| Industry | Entertainment Industry |
| Eligibility | Must have passed class 12th in Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics |
| Average Starting Salary | INR 2-10 LPA |
| Employment Opportunity | Radio Stations, TV channels, Advertising Firms, Movies |
What does a Sound Engineer Do?
- An audio engineer (also known as a sound engineer or recording engineer) assists in the creation of a recording or live performance by balancing and altering sound sources through equalisation, dynamics processing, and audio effects, as well as mixing, reproduction, and sound reinforcement.
- Sound engineers are in charge of modifying acoustics to obtain a certain outcome. You may also master the sound, which entails listening to the mixed recordings in a decent acoustic context and then tweaking and perfecting the edited mix.
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Types of Sound Engineers
Because Sound Engineer job profiles are limited to sounds and machines, it is a constrained career option. Some of the most common Sound Engineer job profiles are as follows:
Monitor Sound Engineers
They mainly focus on the sound that musicians or band members can hear on the stage through their monitors. They are even responsible for the maintenance and repair work of monitors and microphones. Hence, they are assigned the duty of keeping a check on the monitor system and the stage wiring.
Studio Sound Engineers
These professionals are responsible for the production of high-quality recordings of music, speech, as well as sound effects. This job profile could require you to line up a recording session with any artist, set up the necessary types of equipment, record the pieces of equipment separately and mix them up, and so on.
Research and Development Audio Engineers
Such professionals indulge in inventing new technologies or techniques that might help in the enhancement of the process and art of audio engineering. They make use of various types of equipment to synchronize, mix, record music voices and sound effects.
Steps to Become a Sound Engineer
The various steps to become a Sound Engineer have been listed below for further reference:
Decision Making
Students should decide well in time if they wish to take up their career in the field of Sound Engineering. Being a challenging job requires full attention and working on even-odd shifts therefore, the candidates must decide whether or not they are prepared for such a demanding job.
Subject Choices
According to the eligibility criteria for jobs in the field of Sound Engineering, the applicant must have an academic background in the concerned field. This could include a bachelor's degree or master’s degree in Sound Engineering. However, they must choose a Science stream that includes Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
Entrance Exam
There are no specific entrances conducted for getting a job as a Sound Engineer. However, admissions to the Bachelors and Master’s courses of Sound Engineering require students to get through the entrance exams conducted in order to get selected.
How to Become a Sound Engineer in India?
To become a sound engineer candidates need to start their preparation from the school itself. Candidates can refer to the following listed steps in order to become a Sound Engineer in India
School Level Preparation
At the 10+2 level, you shall compulsorily take a Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects. This step is considered to be a prerequisite for admission to any reputed college or institute that provides a Bachelor’s Degree in Sound Engineering or relative fields. You must also have an interest in this field and knowledge about the same which you can gain either by watching a Sound Engineer during his performance or receiving training under him/her.
UG Level Preparation
After successful completion of the 10+2 exam with good marks, you may apply to reputed colleges and institutes that offer Bachelor’s Degree courses in Sound Engineering or relative fields. These courses have been mentioned in the article as we move on further. Since there are numerous courses available for Sound Engineering, you must choose your course wisely as per your skills, knowledge as well as interest and demand for the subject.
PG Level Preparation
Post completion of bachelor courses in the field of Sound Engineering, you may take up Master’s degree courses in the same field to enhance your skills as well as knowledge. Then, after all the above-listed steps, you can opt for jobs in areas related to Sound Engineering that can be in a recording studio, radio, or in any live show. You will be only offered PG courses if you have an undergraduate degree in Sound Engineering or a relative field and also a doctoral degree if you have a postgraduate degree in Sound Engineering or a relative field.
Courses to Become Sound Engineer in India
Diploma in Sound Engineering
The Diploma in Sound Engineering is a 6-month to 1-year training course that is suitable for students who wish to pursue a career in music. The course mainly focuses on teaching the students about the various technical and creative aspects of sound balancing, recording, editing, mixing, and so on.
To stand as an eligible candidate for the Diploma in Sound Engineering Courses, students must follow the prescribed eligibility criteria:
- The applying candidates must have qualified for the 10+2 exam with Science Stream.
- They must have studied the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects in their 10+2.
Read more: Diploma Engineering courses
| How to prepare for the Entrance Exam? |
- You must prepare your schedule and divide your topics as per this schedule so that you finish the syllabus on time.
- Do not create unwanted stress by gathering unwanted resources. Rather, research well and choose the best resources that provide you with the most accurate information about the concerned topic.
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Revisit the already prepared topic to master the topic. However, you must not go for new topics right before the day of the final exam as this might create a panic situation for you.
B.Sc Sound Engineering
The B.Sc in Sound Engineering is a 3-year course that mainly focuses on providing the students with the necessary components of various types of sounds. This might include Music Production or VFX Animations that involve the core component of the programs.
- Admission to B.Sc Sound Engineering programs varies by college; most colleges perform merit-based admissions, which are followed by counseling and a personal interview, while others admit candidates based on their 12th-grade merit.
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Candidates must apply for the program by visiting the college's or university's website, filling out the application form, and submitting an application.
Eligibility Criteria
To stand as an eligible candidate for the B.Sc Sound Engineering Course, students must follow the prescribed eligibility criteria:
- The applying candidates must have qualified for the 10+2 exam with Science Stream. They must have compulsorily studied the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects.
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They should have obtained at least 55% marks at the qualifying exam to pass through the cut-offs set by the respective college or institute.
BPA in Audio Engineering and Sound Programming
The BPA in Audio Engineering and Sound Programming is a three-year undergraduate program that teaches students about music production, sound design, broadcasting, and other aspects of the audio industry. Admission to the BPA in Audio Engineering and Sound Programming programs varies by institution; most institutions conduct merit-based admissions, followed by counseling and a personal interview, while others accept students based on their 12th-grade grades.
- The applying candidates must have qualified for the 10+2 exam with Science Stream. They must have compulsorily studied the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects.
- They should have obtained at least 55% marks at the qualifying exam to pass through the cut-offs set by the respective college or institute.
- The 10+2 degree, obtained from a recognized board or institute.
How to prepare for the Entrance Exam?
If you wish the clear your Entrances with good marks, consider the following suggestions:
- Make a strict timetable for studying your topics.
- Follow your timetable, and be thorough with your syllabus.
- Avoid panicking and taking stress as it leads to distraction and is not helpful.
M.Tech Sound Engineering
M.Tech in sound engineering is a postgraduate degree that entails a thorough examination of various audio and sound apparatuses. The course curriculum includes a study of the principles and various theories associated with sound.
To stand as an eligible candidate for M.Tech Sound Engineering, students must follow the prescribed eligibility criteria:
- The applying candidates must have qualified for their final exams at Undergraduate level with at least 60% marks.
- The student must have completed their graduation in the same stream to get a chance in the M.Tech Sound Engineering course.
How to prepare for the Entrance Exam?
If you wish the clear your Entrances with good marks, consider the following suggestions:
- You must prepare your schedule and divide your topics as per this schedule so that you finish the syllabus on time.
- Do not create unwanted stress by gathering unwanted resources. Rather, research well and choose the best resources that provide you with the most accurate information about the concerned topic.
- Revise continuously the already prepared topic to get smooth with the topic. However, you must not go into new topics right before the final exam as this cause you to panic
How to Become a Sound Engineer Abroad?
Students can also pursue sound engineering courses in foreign universities and pursue a career as a sound engineer.
Sound Engineer in USA
Students who wish to pursue their career in Sound Engineering in the USA surely have an opportunity to gain knowledge from the respective courses in audio and sound.
The admission requirements for Sound Engineering courses provided in the USA have been listed below:
- Students are required to include their 10+2 qualifying exam results.
- Students applying for postgraduate courses in Sound Engineering must have a Bachelor's degree in the same field.
- They must take English proficiency tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
- Recommendation Letters.
Top Colleges for Sound Engineering Courses
| Name of Institute | Fees |
|---|---|
| University of Hartford | INR 29,67,046 |
| University of Cincinnati | INR 21,23,024 |
| The University of Alabama | INR 22,16,674 |
| DePaul University | INR 30,64,067 |
| University of Texas | INR 20,88,437 |
Sound Engineer in UK
The United Kingdom is also a popular study abroad destination for students, particularly for those interested in pursuing a career in Sound Engineering. Sound Engineering courses in the UK allow students to study a diverse curriculum, ensuring students are extremely well prepared for employment in the industry once they complete their degree.
The admission requirements listed for Sound Engineering courses provided in the UK have been listed below:
- Students are required to include their 10+2 qualifying exam results.
- BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction or Merit.
- Candidates must also have GCSE English (grade 9 – 4 / A *– C) or Level 2 equivalents, as well as GCSE Maths (grade 9 – 5 / A* – B).
- If the aspirant does not meet the above criteria, they can still apply to certain universities that offer Sound Engineering courses if they are 21 or older.
- Recommendation Letters.
Top Colleges for Sound Engineering Courses
| Name of Institute | Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| University of South Wales | INR 11,17,368 |
| Bath Spa University | INR 13,36,407 |
| University of Portsmouth | INR 13,74,540 |
| Nottingham Trent University | INR 13,47,936 |
| University of Glasgow | INR 17,15,958 |
| London South Bank University | INR 66,03,999 |
| University of West London | INR 13,27,983 |
| University of York | INR 19,73,130 |
Sound Engineer in Canada
In Canada, students get an opportunity to apply for Diplomas as well as Audio Engineering and Sound Engineering courses. Following that, they may be able to find lucrative employment opportunities as a sound designer or in any other job role in the respective field.
The admission requirements for Sound Engineering courses provided in Canada have been listed below:
- Students are required to include their 10+2 qualifying exam results.
- Students applying for postgraduate courses in Sound Engineering must have a Bachelor's degree in the same field.
- They must take English proficiency tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
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Recommendation Letters
Top Colleges for Sound Engineering Courses
| Name of Institute | Fees |
|---|---|
| George Brown College | INR 16,10,491 |
| University of Lethbridge | INR 10,58,322 |
| Vancouver Film School | INR 26,41,882 |
| Trebas Institute | INR 13,31,810 |
| Centre for Arts and Technology | INR 14,45,215 |
Benefits of Career as a Sound Engineer
The job of a Sound Engineer undoubtedly has certain advantages that entice applicants to apply for the position. These benefits have been mentioned below for reference:
Salary
Candidates hired as Sound Engineers are initially given an annual pay of about INR 2- INR 25 lakhs per year. With an increase in work experience and skills, salary tends to increase even more.Where you work influences your income to a certain extent - large studios and manufacturing companies offer larger salaries than tiny local studios.
Job Security
A Sound Engineer works in the Music Industry. They could work in radio stations, TV channels, advertising firms, movies, and so on. The huge number of studios across the country (and outside the country) guarantees that sound engineers have no shortcut possibilities. The world really is your oyster with the appropriate skills and knowledge.Working anywhere in the world, they would surely have job security, as sound engineers are necessary for every recording or audio setting in any film or anywhere else.
Unique Experience
While studying their respective Sound Engineering courses, the students may gain a unique experience of working in shows or studios to get practical knowledge of the field. You will get to know various tools and softwares used in Sound Engineering such as Digital and Analog Consoles,Microphones, Preamps, Compressors, Outboard Gear, Stereo Monitors etc.
Skills Required for a Sound Engineer
The various skills required to become a Sound Engineer have been mentioned below:
| Technical Knowledge | Knowledge about Music Recording Technology | Creativity |
| Studio Management | Ability to work in shifts | Calm Attitude |
| Finance Management | Patient | Team Work |
Salary of Sound Engineers in India
The Sound Engineers can rest assured of the fact that their salaries rise over time as they complete successive levels of training and experience in the field.
The following salary ranges are provided for Sound Engineers and other related job roles:
Average Annual Salary
The below table illustrates the average salary of Individuals with Sound engineering as a career in India
| Sound Engineer | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Industry-Specific Studios | INR 2 - 25 LPA |
| Private Studios | INR 2 - 15 LPA |
Specialization Wise
The below table illustrates the salaries of Sound Engineering graduates according to their specializations
| Job Profile | Average Initial Salary |
|---|---|
| Monitor Sound Engineers | INR 3.6 - 8 LPA |
| Studio Sound Engineers | INR 3-5 LPA |
| Research and Development Audio Engineers | INR 5-9 LPA |
Experience Wise
The below table illustrates the average salaries of Sound Engineers based on their experience
| Job Profile | Salary of a Fresher | Salary of an Experienced Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Monitor Sound Engineers | INR 3.6 - 8 LPA | INR 9-11 LPA |
| Studio Sound Engineers | INR 3-5 LPA | INR 8-10 LPA |
| Research and Development Audio Engineers | INR 5-9 LPA | INR 9-15 LPA |
What after completion of Sound Engineering Courses?
- Higher education: If you have completed your undergraduate degree in the field of Sound Engineering, you stand out as an eligible candidate to go for higher education in the same field. You may opt for a master’s degree in Sound Engineering or even a Ph.D. degree in Sound Engineering if you have completed both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Sound Engineering.
- Job prospects: It is very evident that a career in the field of Sound Engineering provides students with commendable employment opportunities, both in India as well as abroad. Sound engineers are in high demand in today’s market. After the successful completion of all the necessary degrees and studies in Sound Engineering, you may find lucrative employment opportunities in areas such as radio stations, TV channels, advertising firms, movies, and so on.
How to Become a Sound Engineer: FAQs
Ques. What is the job structure of a Sound Engineer?
Ans. These experts employ technical devices to create high-quality recordings of speech, music, and sound effects in studios in order to create sounds for film, television, and radio. In recent times, a career as a Sound Engineer has been given great importance and is considered to be a part of major revenue-producing fields, amongst many others.
Ques. What knowledge should a Sound Engineer probably have before they start to work?
Ans. To perform their job as Sound Engineers efficiently, professionals must have knowledge of the music industry, Music Recording Technologies and must be tech-savvy so as to work with different types of audio equipment.
Ques. What are the eligibility criteria for Sound Engineer jobs?
Ans. According to the prescribed eligibility criteria for Sound Engineer, candidates must have passed Class 12th in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics along with a Bachelor’s or Postgraduate’s degree in Sound Engineering in order to get jobs in reputed areas.
Ques. What is the average initial salary for a Sound Engineer?
Ans. The average initial salary for a Sound Engineer ranges between INR 2-25 LPA.
Ques. Who will benefit from taking this course?
Ans. This is an excellent choice of course for students who have an academic background in Sound Engineering, have a fascination with the music industry, and want to pursue it as a career.
Ques. What are the best places for these professionals to look for work?
Ans. They may find lucrative employment opportunities in areas such as radio stations, TV channels, advertising firms, movies, and so on
Ques. What are the main skills required for Sound Engineer jobs?
Ans. The most specific skills required for Sound Engineer jobs in India include Knowledge about Music Recording Technology, Studio Management, Technical Knowledge, Calm Attitude, Creativity, and so on.
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