Getting Started with AI Tools for Audio Engineers

AI tools can automate repetitive tasks, enhance audio quality in challenging environments, and provide insights that were previously time-consuming to obtain. For live sound engineers, AI-powered feedback suppression can detect and notch out resonant frequencies in real time, reducing the risk of howl-around during shows. In post-production, machine learning algorithms can clean up background noise, de-ess vocals, and even suggest EQ adjustments.

However, AI is not a replacement for human ears and experience. The best results come from using AI as an assistant — handling the grunt work so you can focus on creative decisions. SSOUNDS engineers have integrated AI-assisted acoustic modeling into our system design process, allowing us to predict coverage and optimize rigging before a single speaker is flown.

Feedback suppression: Several modern digital mixers and standalone plugins now include adaptive feedback eliminators that automatically detect and suppress ringing frequencies. These tools use FFT analysis and notch filtering, often with adjustable sensitivity and learning modes. For example, the dbx AFS2 is a dedicated unit, while many console manufacturers (like Allen & Heath, Yamaha) offer built-in feedback suppression.

Noise gate and cleanup: AI-driven noise gates can distinguish between desired signal and background noise more accurately than traditional threshold-based gates. iZotope RX has long been a standard for post-production, but live versions like Waves NS1 and Clarity Vx Pro can reduce noise in real time. These are especially useful for spoken word or broadcast applications.

Mixing assistance: Tools like iZotope Neutron's Assistant or Sonible smart:EQ analyze your audio and suggest EQ, compression, and even stereo placement. While these suggestions are a starting point, they can speed up your workflow, especially for less experienced engineers or when time is tight.

System tuning is one area where AI is making significant inroads. Traditional methods involve manual measurement with Smaart or similar software, then adjusting EQ and delay manually. Newer platforms like Rational Acoustics Smaart v9 incorporate machine learning to identify room modes and suggest corrective filters. Some manufacturers, including SSOUNDS, use AI-assisted modeling to simulate coverage patterns and optimize array configurations before deployment.

For subwoofer arrays, AI can predict cancellation patterns and suggest spacing and delay settings to achieve uniform coverage. This is particularly valuable in challenging venues where multiple subwoofer placements are possible. SSOUNDS' engineering team uses proprietary algorithms to model cardioid and end-fire arrays, ensuring consistent low-frequency response across the audience area.

AI-powered transcription services like Otter.ai, Rev, and Descript can convert meeting notes, interviews, or even live show recordings into text. For audio engineers documenting system setups or client briefs, this can save hours. Descript also offers a 'Studio Sound' feature that cleans up audio and removes filler words — useful for creating polished demo reels or training materials.

Some tools integrate directly with DAWs, allowing you to search for specific words or phrases within a multitrack session. This can be a lifesaver when trying to locate a particular take or comment during post-production.

Start with one tool at a time. Choose a specific problem — like feedback during a monitor mix — and test an AI solution in a low-stakes environment before relying on it for a major show. Always have a bypass option and know how to revert to manual control.

Understand the limitations. AI models are trained on data and may not handle every situation perfectly. For instance, a feedback suppressor might mistake a musical harmonic for feedback and notch it out, altering the instrument's tone. Use AI as a safety net, not a crutch.

Keep your ears in the loop. No AI can replace the nuanced judgment of an experienced engineer. Use AI to handle the obvious, but trust your ears for the subtle details that make a mix great. SSOUNDS engineers always validate AI suggestions with real-world listening and measurement.

AI is moving toward real-time adaptive processing that learns from the engineer's preferences. Imagine a system that remembers your EQ moves on a vocal mic and applies them automatically when that mic is used again. Or a mixing assistant that adjusts reverb and delay based on the room's acoustics and the genre of music.

For live sound, AI-driven line array optimization could soon become standard, automatically adjusting splay angles and DSP settings based on audience density and temperature gradients. SSOUNDS is actively researching these areas to ensure our systems remain at the forefront of intelligent audio technology.