Audio Engineer SOPs

This template contains standard operating procedures (SOPs) for audio engineers working in various environments, including recording studios, live events, film production, and broadcasting. The procedures cover a wide range of tasks, from setting up and testing audio equipment to troubleshooting issues and maintaining equipment. The document is organized into ten SOPs, each addressing a specific aspect of audio engineering.

SOP 1 outlines the steps for setting up and testing audio equipment, emphasizing the importance of planning, proper connections, gain staging, and troubleshooting. SOP 2 details microphone placement and calibration techniques for different instruments and scenarios, focusing on selecting the right microphone, understanding polar patterns, and preventing phase cancellation. SOP 3 covers audio signal flow management, including routing, gain staging, and monitoring to ensure clean and uninterrupted signal transmission.

SOP 4 focuses on mixing console operation, detailing the functions of input channels, EQ, aux sends, faders, and buses. It provides guidance on setting up input channels, shaping tone with EQ, managing effects and monitor mixes, and using dynamics processing. SOP 5 provides a systematic approach to troubleshooting audio issues, such as signal loss, noise, distortion, and feedback. It offers steps for diagnosing and resolving these problems in different audio systems.

SOP 6 outlines the workflow for recording sessions, including pre-session planning, microphone and instrument setup, monitoring, sound check, recording process, and post-recording review. SOP 7 details the setup for live sound events, covering pre-event planning, PA system setup, microphone and monitor configuration, sound check, feedback prevention, and post-event breakdown. SOP 8 focuses on DAW setup and optimization for recording, editing, mixing, and mastering, including hardware configuration, performance optimization, track routing, plugin management, and recording settings.

SOP 9 provides guidance on speaker and monitor calibration for accurate audio monitoring in various environments. It covers setting up studio monitors, calibrating output levels, adjusting EQ, and using reference tracks. Finally, SOP 10 emphasizes the importance of equipment maintenance and storage to ensure longevity and optimal performance. It includes procedures for routine cleaning, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and data backup.