You know how to use your voice to explore all your playing skills, technically you are at the top and yet for a professional quality performance, your voice alone will not be enough.
Why?
Everything will depend on the overall value of the equipment you will use for your home studio
The audio recording must be clean, that is, without any harmful noise, with an optimal sound. The goal is that the sound engineer can easily work in post-production on his mixes of jingles, sound effects, radio spots... And thus deliver his performance in compliance with the requirements of the customer.
This is why we will list the :
8 essential elements for your home studio
3. Fast and powerful computer
1. High performance microphone
Prefer a static to dynamic microphone It is very sensitive and records sounds with extreme precision, buying a good quality one is investing in its professional success.
Each of us has his or her own vocal identity, which is why the microphone used may well be suitable for one voice-over and not at all for another.
Take the time to choose it, try it before you buy it, it's even better, in your local store or on Thomann. It is a German platform specialized in sound equipment where most voice-over artists, sound engineers...
If you are just learning voice-over, start with a usb microphone, very easy to use (between 50 and 100 euros).
Don't invest too much in equipment until you are sure you want to continue in this activity.
2. Microphone accessories
These accessories will help eradicate all those annoying noises.
- The anti-pop screen: it prevents plosives, considerably reduces the noise caused by vibrations. Two models exist, in fabric or metal. It is usually sold with the microphone.
- The microphone tripod: it allows a stable support, the actor is then free of his movements (for the interpretation).
Tabletop microphone stand: The heavier the better.
* It is advisable to remain in an upright position for a good breathing and a better use of the diaphragm.
3. Fast and powerful computer
Mac or Pc it doesn't matter, the most important thing is that it is powerful enough to support your software, plugins, audio sounds ... In which case the working conditions would not be optimal.
4. The sound recording software
There are a lot of audio softwares, 2 of which I know quite well, Pro Tools (paid) and Reaper, with which you can modify, clean, export your tracks as you wish.
You don't have to know all the functions of the software, but to be hyper autonomous, efficient and above all for your clients to call you back, you have to be demanding towards yourself and learn how to remove mouth noises, breaths (depending on the specialty), adjust the volume of the sound track...You will then avoid unexpected returns from your clients.
I've worked with small companies that didn't have a sound engineer, the audio/video editing was done as is.
5. Audio interface
The external sound card also called "digital audio interface" is a box with plugs and buttons, connected to the computer. It is essential for a professional home studio.
What is it used for?
It manages all the operations related to audio and has for objective to treat the analogical sound recording (microphone, guitar...) in digital sound to be able to be transferred on the computer and treated via the DAW (Pro Tools, Reaper, Logic Pro...) for the sound effects, the mixings..
6. Studio headphones
The best standard headphones have no use in the voiceover business, but studio headphones are essential.
They provide accurate sound as it comes out of the microphone during recording, you can hear all the imperfections, and working on the audio tracks is much easier.
Choose preferably :
- Closed-back headphones: They provide excellent sound insulation from outside noise.
- Studio headphones with large shells: To eliminate that unpleasant feeling of compression in the ears. Comfort is important, especially if you use them for several hours at a time.
7. Monitoring speakers
For a long time I delivered my audios without having listened to them first via the monitoring speakers.
But on the advice of a great sound engineer, I finally got one. Why? Because even if your headphones are very good quality, the speakers allow you to hear your audio as your client will hear it and to make sure your sound is properly adjusted.
8. Soundproof cabin
The acoustics must be perfect. If you don't eliminate the noise of cars, toilets, lawnmowers... The sound of the recording will come out in a more than mediocre state.
Ideally, you should set up in a room where no noise can be heard... Ideally.
But whatever the location, it must be acoustically treated, preferably by a professional (sound engineer).
The Internet is a gold mine, you can also find all the tips and tricks to create a soundproof booth with your own hands according to your means, but ask the advice of a professional when it is finished.
Here is an example
With all these elements, you are guaranteed to have a quality home studio and will be able to move mountains !
If you don't have a professional store near you, whatever internet platform you choose, don't hesitate to contact their customer service to ask for advice.
Once you've settled in, go out and conquer the customer and surprise everyone in your TV or radio commercials, make us laugh in your character creations or dream in your documentaries... There are no limits to what you can accomplish!
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