Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Pitch Correction • Stems • MIDI

AU

Term from Music Production industry explained for recruiters

AU (Audio Units) is a standard format for music software tools used primarily on Apple computers. Think of it like plug-and-play accessories for music production software. When someone mentions AU in their resume, they're talking about their experience with these music production tools that can be added to main recording software like Logic Pro or GarageBand. It's similar to other formats like VST or AAX, which all serve the same purpose: adding effects, instruments, or processing tools to music production software.

Examples in Resumes

Created custom sound effects using AU plugins for commercial advertisements

Managed complex recording sessions integrating multiple AU instruments

Developed workflow templates incorporating Audio Units for efficient music production

Typical job title: "Audio Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Sound Engineer Music Producer Recording Engineer Mix Engineer Audio Production Specialist Studio Engineer Digital Audio Specialist

Where to Find Audio Engineers

Online Communities

Professional Networks

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you integrate AU plugins into a large-scale commercial production workflow?

Expected Answer: A senior audio professional should discuss managing multiple plugins efficiently, ensuring compatibility across different systems, creating template sessions, and maintaining backup solutions for critical plugins.

Q: How do you troubleshoot AU plugin issues in a time-sensitive studio environment?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of common plugin conflicts, system resource management, quick workarounds, and maintaining alternative tools for backup when technical issues arise.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What considerations do you take when choosing between AU and other plugin formats?

Expected Answer: Should explain the advantages of AU plugins in Mac-based studios, compatibility issues, and how to choose the right format based on the project needs and studio setup.

Q: How do you organize and manage your AU plugin collection?

Expected Answer: Should discuss plugin organization methods, backup strategies, and how to maintain an efficient workflow with multiple plugins.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are AU plugins and how do you use them in music production?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that AU plugins are audio tools that add effects or instruments to music software, and demonstrate basic knowledge of loading and using them.

Q: Can you explain the difference between AU and other plugin formats?

Expected Answer: Should understand that AU is Mac-specific, while formats like VST work on multiple systems, and be able to explain basic compatibility considerations.