Help Improving My Audio
Hi,
My submission was rejected for "Room Echo" and "Hiss."
Although I hear a slight hiss when the volume is cranked all the way up, I have no idea how to get rid of it. I also hear no echo at all, so I'm confused about that feedback.
I used an ATR2100 plugged into a Zoom H5 as my audio interface.
Any help on how to get the quality Voice Bunny is looking for would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/18vQOP3WWfeD0wzxXE_Vb9EzOFUTsPooj/view?usp=sharing
Rebekah
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Hello, Rebekah.
Thank you for sharing your work with us.
I can also hear that hiss noise in the background. We have an article about this topic Recording problems: Hiss noise I'm sure you'll find it useful.
The thing with hiss is that it depends on many variables (sometimes the smallest piece of gear can be affecting your sound).
For instance, it is much better to record using a condenser microphone with an XLR cable, because using a cardioid mic would normally mean you need to give much more gain to your recording, which in turn boosts that hiss noise.
I've also heard that the pres on the Zoom tend to be quite hissy. So, if you have the chance, try using another audio interface when recording.
Hope that helps.
Best,
Oscar
Thanks a lot Oscar. This is all really helpful, and I'll work on upping my audio game before I apply again. I appreciate your time and tips!
Rebekah
Hi Rebekah,
Ditto what Oscar said.
There are lots of decent condenser mics you can get for about $100 US - or a little less, and an audio interface used with your computer should sound a god deal better, and quieter.
You might check out the Focusrite Scarlet Solo, PreSonus AudioBox, or the Lexicon Alpha interfaces. All of those are around $100 US. There are other more pricey ones, but these should give you good clean audio. Check with Oscar about what he thinks. I use a PreSonus AudioBox and an Audio Technica AT202 mic for a good clean signal.
Best to you,
Joe Brown
Thanks Joe. I will look into those options. I was looking at a Rode NT1-A and Audient iD14 interface. They both have great reviews on B&H.
I know that I get 3 more tries to get accepted, but I was wondering, is there a time limit or expiration date if I don't reapply right away??
Thanks so much!
Hi Rebekah,
Yes I think those would be excellent choices.
I'm not sure if there is a time limit, but you ask Oscar or another official VB employee. I'm just one of the voice actors using the platform, and would add that it has been worthwhile for me.
All the best,
Joe
Hello Rebekah and Joe.
I'm terribly sorry for the late reply. I had an accident back on March 10 but now I'm finally able to get back to work. Hope this is still relevant for you Rebekah:
Regarding the time limit on your second application; No. There's no expiration date. You just have to request reconsideration through your profile, and you can expect to receive a new test project anywhere between 7 and 31 days from the moment you submit your petition.
With regards to you buying a new mic and audio interface, the options that Joe has told you about are wonderful in my opinion. If you have the chance to try them out beforehand to check that your voice goes well with the mic, it would be awesome.
Thank you so much Joe for helping out here.
Hope you both are doing fantastic.
Best,
Oscar