The Weeks Library Technology Center
The Music Engineering program is intensively involved in the computer applications that are central to today's music recording profession. Students and faculty use computer systems to record music, and perform editing and post production, learn circuit design, design loudspeaker enclosures, model room acoustics, develop proprietary signal processing algorithms using DSP development packages, design proprietary hardware devices such as A/D and D/A converters, research low bit-rate coding using data compression, prepare psychoacoustic testing programs, and perform analytical measuring, as well as other tutorial and research tasks.
Computer systems are used to record, edit and post-produce music from
the Frost School of Music's Gusman Concert Hall and Clarke Recital Hall;
using audio digitization systems, audio signals are stored on hard disk,
and then manipulated using DSP programming. This provides great artistic
flexibility and direct hands-on understanding of contemporary post production
techniques.
The breadth of skills nurtured in the program spans a wide range of topics. For example, using software packages, students may design loudspeaker enclosures and crossovers using Thiele-Small equations, or develop proprietary signal processing algorithms using DSP development software. Students can perform sophisticated acoustical testing using these systems. They perform tests such as MLS, RT60, anechoic speaker simulation and impulse response. Or, they can design proprietary digitization hardware using A/D and D/A converters. Some of our students research low bit-rate coding algorithms (such as MP3 coding); our graduate students have completed thesis projects on data compression techniques, studying use of windows in low bit-rate coders, and subband coding algorithms. Students employ these systems to prepare psychoacoustic testing programs; a class project studied masking effects on the human minimum threshold of audibility curve. Many of our students and faculty are regularly published in audio journals.
The Weeks Library Technology Center is a fully equipped lab used for both classroom instruction and student project development work. This space can be used to work on any variety of audio projects by utilizing the extensive software library offered in this environment. In addition, the lab also can be used for digital
video editing and video production as well as computer graphic design. Recently constructed as part of the Weeks Music Library & Advanced Technology Center, the Student lab offers state of the art technology including 5.1 Surround DVD playback. Often times this room is used to host AES guest speakers that display new cutting edge audio technology, and it also doubles as host location for MUE student listening events.
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