if you receive a delivery of a voiceover from Voice To Me, you need to master the recording (unless otherwise stated in the order). It’s the last step before you release it to the world. This is where you fine-tune the audio to make it sound as good as possible. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Levels and dynamics
Volume: Make sure all sounds have an even volume level. Too high peaks can clip, while too low levels make it hard to hear.
Dynamics Compression: This tool can be used to reduce the difference between the highest and lowest audio levels, resulting in a more even sound.
Limiting: To avoid distortion, you can use a limiter to limit the highest sound level.
- EQ (Equalizer)
Frequency balance: Use an equalizer to adjust different frequencies. Boost the frequencies that make the voice clear and crisp, and dampen those that sound unwanted.
Reverb: If there is too much reverb, you can use an equalizer to reduce it. (If you have purchased your voice recording from us at Voice To Me, you do not need to worry about this step. All our voices have undergone our rigorous quality assurance. Neither reverberation nor background noise is included in a production from us.)
- Stereo width
Mono compatibility: Even if you’re producing in stereo, it’s important to make sure your voiceover sounds good even if it’s played back in mono.
Panning: Use panning to create the illusion of space, but don’t overdo it.
- Noise Reduction
Background noise: If there is background noise, such as fans or traffic, you can use a noise reduction plugin to reduce it. (You don’t have to think about this if you bought your voice from us at Voice To Me because all our voices and studios are quality assured.)
- Normalization
Even Volume: Normalize the audio file to ensure it has a consistent volume level.
- Format and bit depth
Choice of format: Choose an appropriate format for your distribution, e.g. WAV or MP3.
Bit depth: Higher bit depth gives better sound quality, but the files are also larger.
- Reference sound
Benchmark: Use a reference track of known quality to compare your work and ensure it measures up.
- Listen in different environments
Different speakers: Listen to your voiceover on different speakers and headphones to get an idea of how it sounds in different listening environments.
- Take a break
Fresh ear: After working on a project for a long time, it can be difficult to hear mistakes. Take a break and come back to it with a fresh ear.
Recommended software:
Audacity: A free and popular audio editing program.
Adobe Audition: A professional tool with many advanced features.
iZotope RX: Specialized in fixing audio problems such as noise, clicks and pops.
Tip:
Start with a good recording: A good recording is the basis for a good mastering.
Trust your ears: The most important tool you have is your ears.
Be careful with automation: Too much automation can make the sound flat and boring.
Ask for feedback: Let others listen to your voiceover and provide feedback.
If you feel the least bit unsure when it comes to the mastering and processing of your voice recording or the entire audio production, you are welcome to hand everything over to our producers here at Voice To Me. We have extensive experience in mastering and mixing for both TV, radio and web. We usually deliver within 24 hours and of course provide a full quality guarantee.
Welcome with your request or order for mastering and sound production here