Higher Occupational Certificate: Sound Operator.

Categories: Sound Engineering
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About Course

SAQA

Turn your passion for sound into a real career with Audiovarsity’s Higher Occupational Certificate: Sound Operator, a hands-on, industry-focused programme for aspiring sound engineers, music producers, and audio creatives.

This course equips you with practical, job-ready skills in sound theory, professional audio equipment, recording, mixing, live sound setup, and modern audio software, preparing you to confidently work in studios, live events, broadcast, and digital media environments.

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What Will You Learn?

  • Understand the theory of sound
  • Set up and operate microphones, mixers
  • Record audio for music and live sound
  • Use digital audio workstations (DAWs)
  • Apply proper signal flow and routing techniques
  • Maintain audio equipment
  • Follow health and safety procedures in studios
  • Work professionally in teams
  • Understand basic business skills

Course Content

MODULE 1: Theory of Sound
In this module, we will explore the fascinating science behind sound. The learner will how sound behaves, how it travels through different mediums, and how your ear perceives it. This module forms the essential foundation for your journey as a sound operator, equipping you with the theoretical knowledge we will need to work effectively with sound in real-world environments. Through interactive classroom sessions, hands-on activities, and group discussions, we will gain a deeper understanding of wave behavior, decibel measurement, signal chains, and acoustic treatment.

MODULE 2: Sound Equipment Principles.
This module introduces you to the principles and operation of sound equipment used in various audio production environments. We will explore different categories of sound equipment and understand their functions and interconnections. By learning about microphones, mixers, amplifiers, equalizers, loudspeakers, and signal processors, we will build a solid technical foundation to operate and troubleshoot audio systems. Through practical sessions and instructor-led activities, we will gain hands-on experience using real audio gear in live and studio setups.

MODULE 3: Characteristics of Audio Hardware and Software.
In this module, we will explore the essential characteristics of audio hardware and software. We will learn how these tools function both independently and in combination, shaping the modern workflow of sound operators and producers. Through this module, we will gain an understanding of audio interfaces, digital audio workstations (DAWs), plugins, and virtual instruments. We will also explore critical digital audio concepts such as bit depth, sample rate, and file formats, and see how they influence recording and production quality.

MODULE 4: Electronic Maintenance Theory.
This module equips you with essential knowledge and practical skills to maintain and troubleshoot electronic systems used in audio environments. We will begin by learning basic electronic theory, followed by an in-depth understanding of audio cables, connectors, faults, and preventive maintenance practices. We will also acquire hands-on experience in soldering and using multimeters for testing and diagnostics. By the end of this module, we will be able to perform basic electronic repairs, identify common system issues, and apply proper maintenance procedures to ensure audio system reliability.

MODULE 5: Basic Principles of Business Management
This module introduces you to the foundational principles of business management, tailored to the needs of the creative industries. We will explore topics such as occupational health and safety, management functions, effective business communication, basic marketing strategies, contracts, and ethical conduct. Whether you're working in a studio, freelancing, or managing a project, these business skills are essential for building professional credibility, working effectively in teams, and sustaining your career.

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