I have never read tape op, however, have heard of it. Given the info in this post, I can completely understand why many would regard it as "up its own ass".
I went to LIPA, where I took a degree in Sound Technology.
If you spoke like the guy who wrote the article quoted from in the original post, they would kiss your ass for the entire course, even if you were a complete bigot ass hole with absolutely no respect for anyone but yourself.
The chief tutor on the sound technology degree had a degree in English Literature as well as a Sound Engineering or related Degree.
In my opinion, he was also completely up himself.
Remember that this magazine is aimed at exclusively Sound Engineers, who, in my experience, can be arrogant, obnoxious, condescending, conceited bunch of ass holes.
So, you see, they would cum over the pages if you gave them tape op.
I put this unusual and perverse phenomena down to the fact that most sound engineers aren't musicians, and in their creative inferiority they psychologically compensate by projecting the illusion that they are the ones who are superior by using the most complex language as possible, thus giving the impression to uneducated bystanders that they are intellectually superior to everyone around them.
Often, when a sound engineer does such a thing, he is communicating a very straight forward snip of information or concept, but, by using complex language, he mystifies the content of his communication and in doing so alienates his audience.
Paul White of sound on sound however, is capable of communicating on many different levels.
He can explain concepts in simple terms for those who are simply less experienced, and he can also explain concepts in sophisticated complex language as well, for those who have the understanding to decipher its meaning.
I have a great deal of respect for this man for his writings, I have learnt much.
As for tape op. As one other forum member mentioned above, I would not completely rule it out. As their may very well be some gems of info in such places that could be used for great effect.
Just try and overlook the pretentiousness of the style of writing and try and abstract any info that can be used effectively.
As Bruce Lee used to say:
Use what is useful
and
disregard that which is not
Jeet Kune Do of Music Production.
Also, think yourself lucky. You don't have to live with a group of condescending, arrogant, conceited, obnoxious ass holes 24/7/
I recommend, do not do a Degree in Sound Technology.
Peace.
