Recording Orchestra and Other Classical Music Ensembles

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How to Listen

Loudspeakers, Headphones, and Listening Environment

While it may seem obvious, it should be noted that the first step in learning how to make a recording is to learn how to listen. The popular audio term “Golden Ears” is actually a misnomer, as it implies that certain audio specialists are born with superhuman hearing. Almost everyone starts out with about the same level of hearing ability or “sensitivity”—the key is to train the brain so that it can most effectively decipher the signals received by the ears. This chapter sets the groundwork for preparation as an audio practitioner and begins with a discussion of sonic characteristics of sound, followed by listening to existing recordings, assessing the listening room, and evaluating ...