What Is Sound Design?

Sound design is the craft of creating, selecting and shaping every non-musical sound a production or product needs, from film effects and game audio to app interfaces and brand experiences. It spans recording, synthesis, editing and mixing, and treats sound as a designed element rather than an afterthought.

Sound Design in Practice

The modern discipline traces to Ben Burtt, who built the Star Wars lightsabre hum from a projector motor and television interference, and Walter Murch, the first person credited as sound designer on Apocalypse Now. For the full story, methods and famous examples, read our complete guide at withfeeling.com/what-is-sound-design/.