Reverb

Term from Theatrical Sound industry explained for recruiters

Reverb is a sound effect that creates an echo-like quality, making sounds appear to be in a larger space. It's commonly used in theaters, concert venues, and recording studios to enhance the richness of sound. Think of it like the natural echo you hear in a church or large hall, but created artificially using special equipment or software. Sound technicians use reverb to make voices and music sound fuller, more natural, or to create specific moods and atmospheres. This is a fundamental skill that almost every sound engineer or audio technician needs to understand and work with.

Examples in Resumes

Designed Reverb settings for 200-seat theater productions to enhance vocal clarity

Programmed multiple Reverb effects for live concert performances using digital sound boards

Created custom Reverb environments for recording studio vocal sessions

Typical job title: "Sound Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Audio Engineer Sound Designer Theatre Sound Technician Live Sound Engineer Recording Engineer Sound Board Operator Audio Production Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach designing reverb for a complex musical with multiple scene changes?

Expected Answer: A senior sound designer should discuss creating different reverb presets for different scenes, managing transitions, considering the acoustics of the theater space, and balancing various sound sources while maintaining clarity.

Q: What's your process for training junior sound engineers on reverb use?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience, explaining how they break down complex concepts into simple terms, hands-on training methods, and common mistakes to avoid.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the appropriate reverb settings for different types of spaces?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they consider room size, materials, and desired effect, showing understanding of pre-delay, decay time, and other basic parameters.

Q: What's your troubleshooting process when reverb causes feedback issues?

Expected Answer: Should describe systematic approach to identifying problem frequencies, adjusting microphone placement, and modifying reverb settings while maintaining desired sound quality.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic parameters of reverb that you can adjust?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain simple concepts like decay time, room size, and mix level in non-technical terms.

Q: Can you describe the difference between reverb and delay?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of how reverb creates space and atmosphere versus delay's distinct repeated sounds.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of reverb controls
  • Operating standard sound boards
  • Following cue sheets
  • Basic microphone placement

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Creating custom reverb presets
  • Troubleshooting sound issues
  • Managing multiple sound effects
  • Working with different venue acoustics

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex sound design for large productions
  • Training and supervising teams
  • Advanced acoustic treatment knowledge
  • Budget management for sound equipment

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with professional sound equipment
  • Cannot explain basic sound principles in simple terms
  • No experience with live performance or theater
  • Lack of knowledge about safety protocols and volume regulations