WHAT WE DO
The Sound Utility (also known as the Second Assistant Sound) plays a key role in making location audio run smoothly. Their presence allows the sound department to stay ahead of schedule, adapt quickly to changes, and handle challenges without slowing down the shoot.
Our Sound Utilities:
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Mic and wire talent quickly, securely, and respectfully.
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Set up and maintain wireless transmitters and receivers.
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Manage batteries, cables, expendables, and backups.
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Support boom ops with cable wrangling and cue monitoring.
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Monitor frequencies to reduce interference.
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Assist with timecode sync and troubleshoot audio issues.
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Handle gear setup and breakdown at call and wrap.
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Keep continuity notes and help maintain organized sound reports.
They act as the extra set of hands and ears every shoot needs to ensure clean, reliable audio throughout the day.
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GEAR SUPPORT & ON-SET LOGISTICS
The utility ensures all audio gear is deployed effectively and safely. With hands-on knowledge of our kits, they know how to troubleshoot wireless issues, manage boom cables, track IFB units, and communicate with the rest of the sound team to stay on top of the day’s demands.
They are vital to complex setups that require:
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Multiple lavs on talent.
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Hidden mics for wardrobe changes.
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IFB routing for multiple departments.
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Quick turnarounds between setups.
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Frequent location moves.
Any production that involves more than one talent mic, frequent wardrobe changes, multiple wireless systems, or a tight schedule will benefit from a utility.
They are especially valuable on:
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Commercials with fast setups and agency presence.
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Narrative scenes with overlapping dialogue or complex blocking.
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Unscripted and reality shoots with multiple cast members.
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Corporate videos that require speed and discretion.
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Any shoot with multiple IFBs or playback needs.
WHEN TO HIRE A SOUND UTILITY
STAYING ONE STEP AHEAD
Our Sound Utilities come prepared, early, and focused. From prepping talent in the morning to staying ahead of resets and wardrobe changes, they are in constant motion without disrupting the flow of set. Their goal is to anticipate problems before they happen and keep the department running smoothly.
BASED IN ATLANTA, AVAILABLE ANYWHERE
Shinobi Sound provides Sound Utilities for productions throughout the Southeast and beyond. Whether your shoot is in town, on the road, or deep in the field, we can build the right team for your needs.
Have a production that needs an extra hand on the sound team? Reach out to book a Sound Utility or build a complete package with mixer and boom op. We will help you find the right setup for your schedule, cast size, and workflow.