AUDIO SIGNAL PROCESSING & SYNTHESIS - 2023/4

Module code: TON2022

Module Overview

This module will introduce you to audio signal processing and synthesis techniques using a combination of theory and application.

Module provider

Music & Media

Module Leader

DE SENA Enzo (Music & Med)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 5

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Overall student workload

Workshop Hours: 14

Independent Learning Hours: 104

Lecture Hours: 12

Guided Learning: 3

Captured Content: 17

Module Availability

Year long

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

  • TON1023 Audio Signal Analysis
  • TON1024 Computer Systems

Module content

Indicative content includes:


  • Linear time invariant systems, impulse responses, transfer functions and Bode plots;

  • Convolution of two signals;

  • The z-transform • FIR and IIR digital filters;

  • Designing digital filters;

  • Fundamentals of sound synthesis;

  • Specific sound synthesis techniques, including subtractive synthesis, and physical modelling;

  • Max/MSP patch design and implementation


Assessment pattern

Assessment type Unit of assessment Weighting
Coursework Coursework 1 25
Coursework Coursework 2 25
Examination Examination (2 hours) 50

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate and develop subject knowledge (exam) and programming skills (coursework).

Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:


  • Coursework 1 – one theory and computer-based assignment (addresses learning outcomes 1-2, 5, and 7-8);

  • Coursework 2 – one computer-based practical assignment (addresses learning outcomes 6-8); and

  • 2hr examination – written paper under exam conditions (addresses learning outcomes 1-4).



Formative assessment

There are no formal formative assessment components for this module, but formative feedback will be given to you in lectures and practical workshops, and in tutorials as required.

Feedback

You will receive written feedback on your coursework.

Module aims

  • This module aims to give you the necessary signal processing background for audio engineering, and to provide a theoretical understanding and a practical working knowledge of techniques for sound synthesis

Learning outcomes

Attributes Developed
001 Perform convolution on two signals in both the time and frequency domains KCP
002 Calculate the impulse response and transfer function of linear time invariant systems and plot the phase and magnitude response KCP
003 Discuss the differences between FIR and IIR digital filters KC
004 Explain the principles and discuss the relative merits of different sound synthesis techniques KC
005 Design and test digital audio filters using a computer-aided approach KCP
006 Design and implement a sound synthesiser patch to a given specification KCP
007 Apply programming skills successfully PT
008 Apply problem-solving skills successfully T

Attributes Developed

C - Cognitive/analytical

K - Subject knowledge

T - Transferable skills

P - Professional/Practical skills

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to: develop your knowledge and understanding of aspects of audio signal processing and synthesis, using a combination of theory and practice. This is developed via lectures and workshops, as well as by completion of practical programming coursework.

The learning and teaching methods include:


  • Six two-hour lectures

  • Seven two-hour workshops / seminars

  • Captured content and guided reading

  • Coursework assignments and feedback


Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: TON2022

Other information

N/A

Programmes this module appears in

Programme Semester Classification Qualifying conditions
Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister) BSc (Hons)(YEAR LONG) Year-long Compulsory A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister) BMus (Hons)(YEAR LONG) Year-long Compulsory A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2023/4 academic year.