The SFAF RAM School of Audio was founded in 2022 to support the foundation's mission to provide members and the public opportunities to learn about the testing, diagnosis, and repair of music reproduction equipment. The school was inspired by the late Roger A. Modjeski (RAM), a world-renowned audio designer, founder of the Berkeley Hi-Fi School, and SFAS Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Roger began building his own audio components when he was 11 years old, after being tutored by his father who built some of the very first Heathkits offered to the public. Years later after graduating Magnum Cum Laude from the University of Virginia with a degree in Electrical Engineering, then working briefly at IBM, Roger returned to his home in Richmond, Virginia and set up an electronics repair shop in the basement of an audio store. It was here that Roger received his education in audio circuit design, diagnosing and troubleshooting issues, and repairing components. Although some very important concepts are taught, oddly enough a degree in Electrical Engineering doesn’t provide its recipient with this type of knowledge. That was something that could only be gained through self-study, apprenticeship, and most importantly hands-on experience, all of which will be available at the SFAF RAM School of Audio.
To support its mission and honor Roger’s legacy, SFAF has assembled a group of subject matter experts from its membership, as well as from the audio industry, to coordinate and facilitate events that will be held both in-person and online via teleconferencing. The goal being to create several programs to develop a sustainable education model that members, the public, and foundation can benefit from. Current programs include:
1. SFAF Learning Initiatives: These classes are designed to provide beginner level education to introduce concepts in audio electronics. Various topics ranging from Ohm’s Law to audio terminology and application will be discussed. Participants can expect to walk away with knowledge of the science behind audio circuit design and component builds while applying that knowledge to become a more informed consumer. Classes will be offered in-person and online.
2. RAM School of Audio Workshops: These workshops are designed to provide intermediate to advanced level classes that teach participants at a more detailed and technical level, including hands-on projects. Classes will incorporate both lecture and lab formats. Participants can expect to develop skills in the use of test equipment, soldering, reading schematics, building circuits, parts selection, and much more. Classes will be offered in-person and online, as well as in course format incorporating several sections and a certificate of completion provided to participants for fulfilling course requirements.
3. Equipment Repair Services: These events will serve to provide advanced level classes focused solely on the diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of audio components. Classes will incorporate lecture and lab formats with extensive hands-on projects. Participants can expect to develop skills to diagnose and repair a variety of audio components using test equipment and other tools, as well as receive assistance and support when needed after course completion. Classes will be offered in-person at the SFAF RAM School of Audio facility using a course format incorporating several sections and a certificate of completion provided to participants for fulfilling course requirements.
In addition, SFAF RAM School of Audio is starting a Donate, Repair & Resell program whereby SFAF will accept donations of various types of equipment in most any condition. SFAF volunteers will test, diagnose, and repair the equipment. Upon successful repair, the equipment will be offered for sale and funds received from sales will be used to support future foundation initiatives.