Knee
A knee is a special tool in sound production that helps control how loud or soft sounds become. Think of it like an automatic volume control that can quickly respond to sudden changes in sound. Sound engineers use knees to make sure loud sounds don't become too harsh and quiet sounds remain clear. The term appears in job descriptions when employers need someone who knows how to properly set up and use audio compressors, which are the devices where this knee control is found. It's similar to how a photographer might adjust brightness levels, but for sound instead of light.
Examples in Resumes
Configured knee settings on compressors for live concert performances
Optimized knee characteristics for vocal recording sessions
Trained junior engineers in proper knee adjustment techniques for broadcast audio
Typical job title: "Sound Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Sound Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you choose between hard and soft knee compression for different audio sources?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how soft knee provides gentle, natural-sounding compression suitable for vocals and acoustic instruments, while hard knee offers more aggressive control needed for drums or broadcast applications.
Q: Describe a situation where you had to teach others about knee settings in compression.
Expected Answer: They should share experience in training others, explaining complex concepts in simple terms, and providing practical examples of when different knee settings work best.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your approach to setting knee parameters for live sound versus studio recording?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how live sound often requires faster, more predictable compression with firmer knee settings, while studio work allows for more subtle, softer knee adjustments.
Q: How do you troubleshoot issues related to knee settings in compression?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for identifying when knee settings are causing problems and how they adjust them to resolve issues like distortion or pumping effects.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what a knee does in audio compression?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that the knee controls how gradually or suddenly compression is applied when audio reaches the threshold level.
Q: What's the difference between a soft knee and hard knee?
Expected Answer: Should explain that soft knee applies compression more gradually around the threshold, while hard knee applies it more suddenly at the exact threshold point.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of compression controls
- Simple knee adjustment for standard situations
- Following established compression presets
- Basic troubleshooting skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced knee setting configuration
- Multiple compressor chain setup
- Genre-specific compression techniques
- Live sound compression management
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex compression system design
- Training and mentoring others
- Mastering-level compression skills
- Broadcast standards compliance
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic compression concepts
- No hands-on experience with professional audio equipment
- Lack of understanding about different knee types
- No experience in critical listening or audio analysis
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