Which course is right for you: Audio or Music Production?

Author

Collarts

Reading Time

3 minutes

If you're interested in sound and music, you've probably heard the terms audio production and music production—but what exactly sets them apart? While both involve shaping sound, they focus on different aspects of the industry. 
We break down what each course entails, so you can figure out which sound career is best for you. 

What is music production?

Music production is all about creating and shaping music, whether for your own artistry or for other musicians. If you love composing, beat-making, recording and arranging tracks, this could be the perfect path for you. As a music producer, you’ll develop the skills to bring songs to life, from the initial idea to the final mix.

Key skills you’ll develop:
  • Songwriting & composition theory: Learning how to structure and compose music that connects with audiences.

  • Digital audio workstations (DAWs): Mastering software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro and Pro Tools to record and edit tracks.

  • Sound design & synthesis: Creating unique sounds and textures to enhance your music.

  • Studio recording & mixing: Capturing live performances and refining them for professional release.

  • Entrepreneurship & collaboration with artists: Working with singers, bands and instrumentalists to shape a track’s final sound.

GRADUATE SUCCESS STORIES

Read about Music Production alumnus Tristan Doyle who recently released his new tracks!

What is audio production?

Audio production goes beyond music, covering all aspects of sound recording, editing, and mixing across different industries—film, TV, podcasts, gaming, live events, and more. If you’re interested in sound engineering, post-production, and live audio, this is the path for you.

Key skills you’ll develop:
  • Live sound engineering: Mixing and managing sound for concerts, theatre, and live events.

  • Post-production engineering: Editing and mixing sound for film, TV, and digital media using current industry tools like Dolby Atmos immersive audio and AVID’s Pro Tools.

  • Foley & sound effects: Creating immersive audio experiences for games, animations, and cinematic projects.

  • Microphone techniques & field recording: Capturing high-quality sound in different environments.

  • Acoustics & sound reinforcement: Understanding how sound behaves in different spaces and how to optimise it for various applications.

GRADS WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY

Read about Audio Production alumnus Chris Barks who now works full-time as a Broadcast Technician at Ace Radio.

Choosing the right path for you

There are plenty of career opportunities for purveyors of sound, and Collarts is the starting point to lead you into a thriving entertainment industry.

Both fields are hands-on, technical, and creative—but the right choice depends on where you see yourself working in the industry.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you want to create and produce music, or do you prefer working with all types of audio?
  • Are you passionate about songwriting and beats, or do you enjoy crafting immersive soundscapes?
  • Do you see yourself in a music studio, or behind the scenes in film, TV, or live events?

If you’re still unsure, many of the skills overlap, and you can build a career that blends both disciplines. You can chat with one of our Course Advisors to find the best study path for you.

So, are you ready to take the next step in your sound career?

STUDY music PRODUCTION

STUDY AUDIO PRODUCTION