Looking for feedback
My first try got rejected due to room echo and "plosives". I switched to a more soundproof recording room, tried it again without popping my Ps, and I'm hoping I can get some feedback on my second try:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/afdz48g36j4jy2e/demo%207-15.wav?dl=0
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Hi Bob,
There are still a lot of plosives, you might be recording too close to the mic. Also, make sure you always use a pop-filter. I'd suggest recording about 4-8 inches from the mic.
In terms of room echo it's ok, but the audio does sound a bit boomy (too many low frequencies) which could be caused either by recording too close to the mic or recording in a space that's not treated properly.
Hope that helps,
-Seb
Well I'm in a bit of a quandary.
I was on the radio for 30 years and spent a lot of time writing, voicing, and producing commercials, so mic technique shouldn't really be a problem. I never really needed any special filtering, although I realize that my home set-up isn't exactly the same as the acoustically-correct sound booths I usually recorded in.
Now I'm out of the radio business and I've been encouraged to get some side voice work going, but I don't really have the wherewithal to outfit a complete home studio just yet. So what's the best way to go about fixing up a recording space that IS "treated properly" on a very tight budget?
Could you run us through your setup?(mic, pop filter, recording software etc..) Also, I'd be good to know how far are you recording and how much acoustic treatment is in the room.
When it comes to plosives, something as simple as recording at an angle could help you with that issue.
A Blue Yeti with a simple windscreen and Audacity. Should I go with one of those pop filters?
Never had much problem with plosives so I really didn't have to deal with alternate mic techniques, but then I was always in a recording booth with an RE-20 or something similar.
The room I'm using is a walk-in closet with little in the way of soundproofing. What can I do to improve the sound quality?
Yeah, I'd start with one of those pop-filters, they'll do a much better job than one of those sleeve type of windscreens.
Once you record with that we'll be able to better assess if you need any soundproofing (luckily there's no echo).
Hi Bob!
I'd also recommend reviewing to change your USB microphone. Keep in mind that these type of mics are not apt for professional voice over recordings due to being extremely hissy. I suggest you review the option of acquiring an interface and an XLR mic. There are very good options that are not too expensive and can give you a much more professional and stable quality.
Not really an option at this point, but I think I may have solved some of the problem.
Here's take THREE:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6902bj57jyg593r/demo%207-29.wav?dl=0
Now I'm rejected due to these reasons:
- Boxy room echo (reverb)
- Background noise
I got a pop filter and I'm recording in a walk-in closet without any type of soundproofing, and it sounds good to my ear -- so I'm not sure what else I can do. The mic I'm using was recommended by someone in the business who uses one himself.
There's got to be a way! Sebastian and Angela, anything you can suggest?
Hi Bob,
Unfortunately, there's a lot of background noise throughout the recording. It sounds as if something is being moved in the background and there's background hiss throughout. It could be coming from a fan or A/C.
All that noise wasn't present in the first recording. I'd try to recreate that first recording without the plosives.
Okay I think I got it now.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/jlbju7wz4ia0lp8/demo%208-4.wav?dl=0
I really appreciate your help, Sebastian. Angela too!
Also, here's a book excerpt I recorded, just for a change of pace. My wife said I sounded a little "forced" on the script you provided, so I thought I'd send something else as well.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yopbr52s91d6pta/DC.wav?dl=0
Hi Bob,
Both samples sound better, although I prefer the book excerpt though. The application script sounds a bit rushed and has a bit of noticeable hiss at the end (after openings).
There's definitely a big improvement, so I'd try the application process again.
-Seb
Re-applied, how long until I find out if I can re-submit?
It took me several weeks to get another “booking” text and it was a Saturday night. Your voice is wonderful. I think a slower more relish in the words would be great. Just take your time and add a dramatic pause here and there... natural of course.
Hi Bob!
As Melissa mentioned, it may take from 7 to 30 days for the new application to be sent. Keep an eye on your email for that to happen!