What are the Basic Items I need for Voice Over?
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- Опубликовано: 8 авг 2024
- Hello hello! I had a viewer ask a question regarding the most basic items you need to start recording Voice over. Well, I decided to make a quick video highlighting the most basic items you'll need to get started in voice over. Here are some links to the items I mention in the video, enjoy!
Adobe Creative Cloud
creativecloud.adobe.com/
Digital Storm
www.digitalstorm.com
Audacity
www.audacityteam.org/
Focusrite Scarlett Solo
amzn.to/3dDtmj1
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
amzn.to/3jhcT5C
Intel Nuc
amzn.to/3j8pdoE
For more information on Angela, her work, recommended Vo Gear and much more, visit her website: www.voiceoverangela.com
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I'm just starting out and it's really refreshing to see an established VO artist who doesn't condescend to (or outright denigrate) those of us for whom a USB mic is the most practical option. Of course I hope to do well enough to upgrade to an XLR in time, but it's a relief to know that I'm not sabotaging my future in VO by starting out with a USB mic. Thanks so much for all your practical advice & personal insight.
Thank you so much for your comment, I was there too! Thank you for watching! :)
I agree with everything you said. I'm starting out to and I have a USB microphone and a laptop. We have to start somewhere.
2 years later and this is the most helpful channel I have come by so far just starting out my self. Thank you for all the helpful information
By far I find your videos the most newbie friendly.
You are immensely helpful. Thank you.
Thank you for show us the reality about the voice over job.
Thank you! 😉 You’re a such a selfless human for all the amazing information you give! I’m so appreciative 🙏🏽
Thank you for the question! You are welcome, I am so happy to help!
Thanks again. Extremely informative.
Thanks so much. This was really helpful
Thank you so much! This was extremely helpful ❤️
Thanks Angela for all your practical, relevant advice for the beginner. You do great job of supplying information for those of us trying to navigate the beginners pathway to finding our place in the recording world. For many like myself, the task of editing and production of a product that's worthy of submitting is far more than the audition itself. Finding the right DAW and using it affectively is a substantial component. Thank you so much!
You are so very welcome! Thank you for watching!
This was invaluable, thank you Angela! Just recently started looking into voice over. Trying to figure out what I need and where to start can be a bit overwhelming at times. But your videos/info have been extremely helpful in relieving that stress, so thank you very much for that!
You are so very welcome! And welcome to the VO Family!
Fluid, friendly, informative and throughly entertaining. Love this woman. This is the video you need starting out.
Wow, thank you! You made my day, so happy to help! Thank you for watching!
There’s just something very personable and caring about you. It no doubt comes across in your voice overs and it’s the reason for your success. If I am going to listen to the same voice on an audiobook for 10 hours plus, yours is the kind of voice I would want to listen to. Much success to you.
♨️ you have single handedly just simplified my life ! 🙏 thank you
hello angela! I just watched your video and I am your new subscriber. I love your voice and your awesome tips. I want to be a voice over like you someday but I don't have enough equipment right now... anyway more power! thanks for this video!
Thank you for the no-nonsense, clear answer! Your channel is fantastic!
Hi Angela, Thank you so much for the insightful information you share, My husband and I are going to embark on this journey. Would you mind sharing the specifications for your Digital Storm and ball park the price for us. I have a laptop for work, but will need something for personal use. Could you also share what platforms you recommend aside from ACX. I'd like to focus on children's books if possible.
Hi Angela! You are such an inspiration. I'm getting into voice over to help an author turn his self-published book into an audiobook (for free, as he is not widely known, but his text could literally help us avoid epigenetic disasters unfolding now, which many modern humans don't even realize is unfolding- information required to ensure next generation vigor keeps happening). I will continue to watch your uploads closely. By the way, one reason I suspect you are seeing this success is in part because people can actually hear in your voice (and see in your uploads) the fact that you personally have solid epigenetic expression. Of course it matters, and impacts lives deeply. Just ask any number of folks not as blessed with intelligence, beauty, or strength...as an educator and former scientist I can say with some conviction that the information in the book I am hoping to assist into an audible format is crucial to us all for helping prevent things like covid from becoming the new norm. Since you have so graciously shared, I will do the same: the book is "A New Path" by Arthur Haines. Oh, and in case you or anyone you know comes down with covid, check out the testimony from Dr. Kory to the Senate earlier this month. It is on RUclips and is under 9 minutes, and shows unequivocally that ivermectin (a common/safe medicine for deworming both humans and livestock) totally OBLITERATES covid, and can be purchased for next to nothing at Tractor Supply stores for horses, without prescription. Many people have taken just that safely, and I suspect the vastly lower price is simply due to it being less precise in amount. I.e. .measuring out a dose to the nearest thousandth of a gram is more costly than going to the nearest tenth. Just my two cents. Again thanks for your own contributions to the lives and opportunities of others in these offerings!
Wow, thank you so much for sharing and for your kind words! I would also agree that you are embarking on an important journey yourself, how kind of you to assist your author in these unprecedented times. I am so glad to help and to inspire! This is why I began making videos, to do just this. So, thank you for validating my efforts, for watching and for sharing your story and insight. I truly appreciate you!
Thank you!
You're welcome!
I have been wanting to do this and had no idea where to start and how much it would realistically cost. You have made it so much easier for me to know where to go and what essential tools are needed so I can start doing VO. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Encouraging and informative! Thank you. 👍
I just can't get around the computer fan noise! Any other tips you have for that. It really is _not_ movable. I mean it's a beast, but it's also huge! I'm using a Rode USB mic. I have no idea what to do about that.
Eventually, I will buy you a cup of coffee as requested! :)
Found your videos while watching someone else and LOVE these! Thanks for sharing the info. I'm sure you've been asked before... but what is the mic & interface you're using? Sounds Incredible with your voice!
Hi Andy! Thanks for watching! I have a Sennheiser mkh 416 and a focusrite Clarett interface.
I know this video is a year old, but I really appreciate the information.
I use a Samsung tablet to read my scripts. That way I avoid the noise made by paper or having to shuttle back and forth between my DAW and the script on the computer.
Thanks for sharing how to get started. You mentioned Intel Nook and Digital Storm but I don't know what those are used for. Is it extra storage for the audio files? Thanks.
I’m just starting out. I have to check your website and I wish you do coaching sessions
I do have some options for you, I have weekly group sessions with my Platinum membership, one on one sessions as well as courses on my website, if you prefer to work at your own pace.
Thank you, Angela.
Good video.
What shock mount and pop filter do you use for your shotgun microphone?
Hi Rob! I have a Rycote shock mount and pop filter, although I'm pretty sure the pop filter has been discontinued as I can't find it anywhere....
I'd like to know what sort of acoustic treatment you had in your workspace to start out. Seems like there are all sort of options.
Thank you for this video! I love how detailed you are with the facts!
Do you have a video on how to make a small space sound proof enough for voice over work? For example: a closet.
Thank you Angela! You have a devoted new subscriber 🙏
My recording space is a storage closet, I did a walk through video they may help give you some ideas. ruclips.net/video/YApv22ddf4c/видео.html
I’m going to start in a closet as well
@@melissalacson4998 we gotta start somewhere lol Best of luck :)
I stuck a $1 hand hold fan from dollar store and stuck it under my laptop to take some heat off the fan
do you have content on editing for beginners?
Thanks for this awesome video. What about an iPad pro instead of a computer?
Ferrite app for recording With NCH wavepad for editing?
You can use whatever works for you and your recording space. I used a tablet at one point as well. 😉
Another great video! Question - I noticed you are using sound blankets, what kind do you use and how do you hang them to create a treatment for the room?
Thank you! They are moving blankets and I just track them to the walls
Thank you!! @@VoiceOverAngela
Reaper requires a $60 license if you’re making >$20k a year or $225 for more than that. The thing is though that the free trial is fully featured and never expires. Licenses are on the honor system
That's really interesting, thank you for sharing!
You da Best
Hi Angela! Could you do a video on narrating /acting for audio books? ie conversational and voices, etc thanks!
Hi Leanne! Thanks for watching! That is a great idea! I'll see if I can get that one together soon!
@@VoiceOverAngela I also would like to have your input on voice selection for different books etc. I can do a number of voices but determining appropriateness can sometimes be a challenge.
what do you think of Ocenaudio?
Thanks for sharing. Your link for Intel Nuc is not working.
What about those soundproof things on the wall?
Hi Shannon from California 😊 I’ve been thinking about getting into voiceover/ audiobook narration. How do you know if you have what it takes to be successful? Especially since I would have to invest in a home studio.
Hello! I love watching your videos, I am learning so much. I have been putting off getting into audio book narrating for years because I haven't been sure where to start, but it is something I've always wanted to do. I don't have a laptop and unfortunately I can't afford to get one at the moment. I do have an I pad. Would I s still be able to record and upload on ACX using only my IPad? If so what program would you recommend starting with for a DAW? Thank you.
Hi! Thank you! If you can use an external microphone with an iPad, maybe? It may be more difficult to use the recording software on a small screen but it may be doable. I definitely don't recommend using the iPad microphone to record audiobooks. Be sure that your room is treated for sound as well.
I build my own computers and mine is liquid cooled plus fans too. Very quiet. But I am due for an upgrade. May not go to windows 11, not sure. What windows are you on? Thanks! Have a great day/life.
Does Adobe Audition has that capability? I already have suite, just have to add Audition.
Hi Angela. Thank you so much for this video and all the others you have gifted us voice-over entrepreneurs. I have a question about enunciation. I have been practicing recording and noticed that my "s's" are very distinct is there a way to dial down the "slur" using an effect or is this something that just needs to be practiced. Also wondering about the "tin" effect that I can hear in my audio, is this a mic issue? Thank you.
Thank you for watching! Sibilance is another issue voice actors face, this is the "s" sound. You can either teach yourself to be a little less sibilant when you speak, use a de-ess plug in or effect in your DAW. As for the tinny sound, this is usually caused by using a bit too much noise reduction, or echo in your recording space.
@@VoiceOverAngela Thank you so much for your reply. I really appreciate it!!
Hello Angela. I was watching TV this morning, and I watched a nation-wide ad. The voice sounded like yours. I think the spot was for dog food. The company's name was Hart's, or something like that. Was that you?
Hi! I have not yet recorded a commercial for Dog food, but good to know that a voice like mine could be! Thanks!
What do you think about the worker bee mic from Neat , they have a package deal & my Daughter wanted to invest in my audiobook endeavors now that she's out the home & I'm pursuing my dreams lol
I just didn't know what to tell her to order for me🤦🏾♀️ I was clueless so I said this.
I've seen a few people select this mic and have said great things about it. :)
@@VoiceOverAngela thank you for your quick reply
Can I use an XLR mic and interface if my desktop computer doesn't have an XLR jack?
Hi Marty, the interface plugs into your computer via USB or USBC connection and your XLR mic plugs into the interface. Check the connections on your computer before you go interface shopping. :)
Video is slightly out of sync - perhaps by a quarter second - just enough to be noticeable.
The downside for the NUCs or other small form factor PCs is the cooling. Many of these PCs don't have adequate cooling so you _will_ hear the fan noise - so avoid putting anywhere near your recording setup. Larger PCs, while bulky - they have much more robust cooling and you can normally control the fan speed to provide just enough cooling to keep the PC working but still very quiet.
For choosing a mic - I have given up on going to the stores. If you can find the money - narrow down your selection to a handful that most likely will work - then order them all and try them out. Return the ones that don't make the cut. Mics are a personal choice since they all sound differently on everyone's voice. Keep the return window and terms in mind. It is more hassle but still cheaper than spending money on a mic only to realize it clashes with your voice or requires a lot of EQ work.
The _type_ of mic you select can impact which interface you can use. If you stick with condensers, then most interfaces will be sufficient. However, if you go with an dynamic, you'll need an interface capable to pushing a lot of clean gain - which is unusual for "budget" interfaces. My $200 SSL2 can do it, but my old Scarlett cannot.
For recording software, keep in mind that the free/cheap options (Audacity) use a destructive workflow. You _can_ use the Undo function but once you save your file, all the changes are _baked_ into the audio file. The more advanced DAW (recording/editing) software like Audition or Reaper use a non-destructive workflow that allows you to go back in time if you made a mistake - even after saving. If you use a destructive editor, just save lots of intermediate versions of your audio file as you work so you can go back if needed. After editing, I will always save the original (unedited) version and the final but delete any intermediate files.
Yeah, had some issues with remux in obs when I first started using it. But figured it out later. Thanks for watching
Hi Angela! Can you share what the dimensions of your recording space is? Thanks!
Roughly 5' x 6'
Can I use a regular iMac computer if not which computer will u prefer
You can use whatever computer you wish. :)
What formal voice over classes do you recommend in person or online? I live in Los Angeles CA. I really want to pursue this path, also, did you self teach yourself how to use software etc? Thank you so much in advance!!
Please I want to start a voice actor career. How possible will it be from my country Nigeria
Salam Angela. I'm from Pakistan. Can I work on this platform from Pakistan. What measures should I take to start?
When you first started out where did you record? The closet isn't an option for me, so I am trying to figure out where I can record in my home.
Hi! Thanks for watching! At the very beginning, I started at the living room table. I quickly discovered there was too much noise there. So I had to move to a storage closet so I could control the room noise. Another option is to build a portable studio with PVC pipe and hanging moving blankets. Whatever makes it work :)
@@VoiceOverAngela thank you so much.
In my Fiverr gig gallery (I'm trying to set up a basic gig), it has as a REQUIREMENT for me to put up some image for examples of my services...but I have absolutely no gigs I've done here or anywhere else. I was a storyteller before. And I never recorded any of that or took pictures. I'm not sure what to do. I can't progress to the next part of my gig unless I put some image down.
This is where you'll want to create a thumbnail to illustrate your gig. Take a look at some of the other sellers gigs in your category, and create your own using a site like canva.
Do you use headphones when recording? If so which ones would you recommend?
I use AKG Mark IV closed back studio monitors while editing. Closed back studio headphones reduce outside studio noise. I don't wear them while recording, just in post. :)
@@VoiceOverAngela thank you!
I’m pretty sure I could use a tablet to start right? I’m on a budget and while I will save for better equipment I have to start small as I just want to practice/gain experience.
If you can plug a microphone into it and it will run your DAW, you can definitely try it.
Your audio is out of sync with the video on my computer. Is that some problem with my equipment?
No, I had some video rendering issues in the beginning, the format conversion process threw everything out of sync. I had it happen a few times.... it's me, not you. Lol
Thunderbolt and Lightfoot
Another great video, Angela. A few more questions, if you don't mind: If you have a noisy computer, can't that hum be filtered out with your DAW? You didn't say anything in this video about the space your recording equipment is going to be located in. The "box" that you're recording in needs to be treated somehow to absorb sound rather than reflect it. And lastly, you mentioned in another video that you get customers from several platforms like ACX, fiverr, and Upwork. Do you do exclusively book narrations on all of these platforms, or do you do other types of VO work?
Hi David, thank you for your question. if you have a noisy computer, you can filter out some of the noise but I have found that some frequencies are harder to remove than others and end up making your recording sound horrible. I would remove any noise from your space before recording. I do all types of VO work, commercials, telephony, podcast intros, video games etc. :)
If my PC has a fan and might constantly pose a noise "hazard" threat to recording VO's, what do you think of using a tablet device or even a smart phone to record the raw audio and then transfer it to my PC for later processing?
I have been interested in getting an Amazon Fire Tablet, but I wanted to get your opinion before committing to it.
Fire 7 tablet, 7" display, 16 GB, latest model (2019 release), Black
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For this instance, leave your PC outside your recording area, or as far as you can get it from your mic. You can use a tablet or phone to read your copy if you cannot see the monitor. Just be sure your appropriate cables are long enough to accommodate this arrangement.
About a year ago I bought a rhode mic and just bought a control arm for it….except the mic doesn’t fit in it only a mic for an amp does. Would I need to get another control arm that works for the yeti?
You may just need a thread size adapter. Some boom arms have different thread sizes, the one on your yeti maybe a different size. You can purchase an adapter on amazon or most electronics or music shops fairly inexpensively.
@@VoiceOverAngela thanks for getting back, this helps a lot 🙏🙏
Hello. Is this something i can do from México?
As long as you have internet access, the equipment and a place to record, you should be able to record voice over.
Hi Angela, when you mention the DAW, is it necessary to have a separate screen, other than your computer screen? Thanks... Robin.
No, not at all. I use one monitor for everything. :)
Thank you!!
Hi VoA thx. What can $300 buy to help.
I am just starting out, I am in need of a new computer and wondered if there was anything in particular you would recommend for a computer in this line of work? Tx
The only things you need to look for is the RAM, I'd say at least 16gb. Is it quiet? And the connectivity, does it have HDMI inputs for a monitor? Does it have USB or USB c inputs? These will determine what kind of interface you buy, they have different types of plugs.
Tx so much
Hi. Is there somewhere I can go record as an audition to see if my voice is even desirable for this line of work? I’d hate to get excited if my voice doesn’t appeal.
I always recommend volunteering to narrate for librivox.org for those who want to dip their toes in and see if this is something they will like to do. You won't know unless you try ;)
Hi Angela. What microphone are you using in this video?
Hi! I'm using a Sennheiser MKH 416 .
Thanks!
Is it just me? or does anyone else notice the slight disconnect between the audio and video?
Might be my PC settings :/
Hi! Thanks for watching! No, it's probably not your PC. I was having issues with OBS that day.... Gremlins..... lol.
Sorry for coming late to the party, but what is your position to recording on portable audio recorder (e.g. Zoom) rather than a computer. I've done some of that, but see most people advocating for recording to a computer. I thought using a portable audio recorder would me easier to manage and eliminate fan noise.
I know some that do, but in temporary situations, like during a studio build or while traveling but not used full time. I could see the benefits, but could you be sure the sound of your space won't change? I think that's the main concern with these.
@@VoiceOverAngela Thanks so much for the quick response. Truly. This video has some age on it and I delighted by your fast turnaround.
Thanks so much for the quick reply.
how much of background noise can you have? I don't have a separate room to "record" or without noise. 😐
Nothing audible to the ear. There are effects that can help reduce noise, but of course you don't want to use too much of these if you don't have to. If you're talking audiobooks, you cannot exceed -60db.
Do I need a condenser microphone with a shock arm?
Not necessarily, any mic will work to start.
Ok Just to make sure I understand..I have a laptop a usb microphone and Audacity do I also need the interface to record audible books?
@@kayjenae5847 you do not need an interface for a USB microphone. You will need one for an XLR mic.
okay, so once I have the equipment....then what??? Do i record samples??? I literally know nothing but I'm eager to learn. I love listening to audiobooks and I think I would be really good as a narrator.
Thanks for watching! I have loads of videos here on my channel regarding what comes next, there is alot to learn! Audiobooks are a marathon and take work, but can be fun and enjoyable!
When i signed up for ACX its asking me for a tax id number?
Yes, if they direct deposit your royalties you can have them withold taxes.
I am searching for a good usb microphone for recording for ACX. I am just beginning to learn about audio equipment and features *brain overload*. Does sampling rate between 16 (yeti) vs. 24 (maono) matter for ACX Audio Recording requirments?
Hi! Thanks for watching! You can adjust the sampling rate in your DAW, it is not specific to each microphone. I started with a blue yeti, it's a great mic to start with.
@@VoiceOverAngela Thank you so much! You're awesome ..love your voice and your videos are so informative! Keep up the great work..can't wait to start my journey!!
@@jstith2181 thank you so much! Go for it!!
@@VoiceOverAngela But, will ACX still accept it, if it's in 24 bit?
@@Vickers747 you can save the file as 16 bit in any DAW, which it needs to be for ACX.
Ummph?
Curious? Is that a Sennheiser 416 mic you're using there?
Yes it is :)
@@VoiceOverAngela Hey Angela, love your channel. I'm just getting started in VO. I know many say too much emphasis is given to the microphone. But, lots of VO's use the 416! Did it make a huge difference in your voice quality? I know they are about $1k. Is it worth it if you have the money? Thanks much!
@@Xterron I think so, I chose it mainly becasue its a shotgun mic, it only picks up what is in front of it. So that reduces unwanted noise, and it sounds great too!
@@VoiceOverAngela Hey Angela! I think I'm going to take the plunge on the sennheiser mic! Question: where/what brand of pop filter are you using on your mic in your videos? Looks unique! Thanks again!
@@Xterron awesome! You'll love it. My pop filter was sold by rycote, but must have been discontinued shortly after, as I cannot find it again....
Angel, i am an author of fantasy novels. I am considering doing my own voice. Any suggestions?
Hi Kimm! That's awesome, I have plenty of videos here on my channel that can help. You'll need to have a USB mic, a computer and headphones. And of course a DAW to record with. It does take some technical know how but it can be done :)
Thank you Angela
Hello Angela, for the recording software, can I use Fl Studio
PLEASE TELL ME EXACTLY WHAT I need, I am a forever teacher, however breast cancer and divorce have made me choos to leave teaching. I must workbc my ex died and ai never received a dime of my $4;000 alimentary ny. This seems promising, I live your videos, and justforndvthemandcwill watch them tomorrow. I am unemployed.
Why does everyone say headphones are necessary?
I had to plug my hi-fi into the headphones slot on pc. I've recorded over 50 book chapters without using headphones.
Its really just a personal preference, some don't wear them while recording, some do. You will need something to listen back through your recording with, be it monitors or headphones. :)
@@VoiceOverAngela
I just listen through my hi fi, like I listen to everything through. Never had to use headphones to hear my hi fi speakers.
@@VoiceOverAngela than you for clarifying that I don't really need them. I mean, I own a pair but I don't need them in my set up.
You don't even reply to my comment i was wondering if I could help you for audiobook editing/mastering
So sorry, must have missed that one. I'm okay for now but will definitely keep you in mind! Thanks!
@@VoiceOverAngela thank you so much, actually I'm not getting any orders from fiverr right now, so I'm looking for all possible sources to get any order, you can give me demo task just to make sure that i know the work.
I'll be looking forward to hear from you.
Thanks Angela!
@@arslanahmed4628 consider refreshing your gigs, your titles, tags, thumbnail and demos. That will at least reset the algorithm.
@@VoiceOverAngela thanks for the tip, I tried every thing
Your suggestions are very good, but note that your voice and video are out of sync. I do live streams and so your setup may not work for me? ? ? Minimal requirements are very useful, such as Audacity versus Adobe and other companies that have the audacity to charge monthly fees. Thank you for that. Some people starting out have no money, but have a very good voice will need to start with the minimal setup. Providing that is very helpful, thank you.
Thank you! Yes, this video was in the early days of me trying to figure out OBS and editing. I tried, lol. Thank you again for watching!
Audacity made me cry after about 5 minutes.
It can be overwhelming, but you can learn it. Give yourself time.