Recording Voice Over
Recording Equipment
Smartphone: the best recorder is the one you have on you (Recommended)
Do you have a smartphone? If so, you're carrying a great recorder with you most of the time. Many of the audio stories you hear on stations like NPR are recorded using smartphones! We have a full guide to smartphone recording here, but here are few things to keep in mind:
On iPhones, you can use the defalut voice memos app
Hold the bottom of your phone about two fists away from your face and off at a 45 degree angle
The key to good audio with a smartphone is being is a noise controlled environment!
make sure to record at least 10-30 seconds of room sound (white noise) at the beginning or end of your recordings.
Audio Recorders: nice but not always necessary.
There are also a variety of microphones Brown University students and faculty can check out through the IT Service Center.
These can offer additional control over your audio generally produce better audio quality but sometimes the best tool is the one you have on you. Click here for a primer on how to use the H1N, pictured here.
Alternative: Voice Over in Premiere Rush
As you will see in our Video Editing Page, we recommend using Adobe Premiere Rush as your editing software. One feature Rush has is an integrated voice-over recorder. However, its important to mention that the audio quality of the voice-over will only be as good as the microphone you use, and the default mics in laptops are not very good. It may be more convenient but your results may not be up to par. Consider using an external USB mic to increase your audio quality.
Tips and Tricks to Consider:
Remove any jewelry or articles of clothing that may produce sound
Read your script from a screen rather than printed-out paper. Paper will rustle and you will hear it in your recording. Consider using a free teleprompter app on your computer or non-recording device.
Speak slowly and try to breathe slowly. Sharp inhalations will sound odd in your recording.
Have a non-carbonated drink on hand. You may be thirst in between takes.
Keep the distance between your mouth and your recording device consistent!
When possible have your back to a wall with fabric or noise-reducing material. If your recording device is pointed towards you, then it will help eliminate unwanted noise
Choosing your Environment
Consistent Audio Quality
The most important aspect of your audio quality will be consistency. To that end:
Try to do all of your voice-overs in the same space.
You will have better results if you can record your entire voice over in the same session
If you, aren't able to do all of your recording at once. Try to replicate the same conditions you have recorded in before.
If you are using a specialized audio recording device, write down the settings you are using like gain, frequency, etc.
Recording at home
You will want to maximize control over what sounds are in the piece. Find somewhere quiet. Fabric is great at absorbing unwanted sound. Find spaces with cushions, blankets, heavy curtains fuzzy rugs, etc? Some spaces to consider could be:
Cars can make great spaces if they are parked in a quiet neighborhood. They're almost like recording booths.
Consider recording in a closet surrounded by clothes to help dampen sound.
Make a pillow fort with your comforter and some chairs and record inside! Just make sure you avoid any rustling sounds.
Places to Record on Campus
While there aren't dedicated spaces specifically for recording audio that are open to all students, there are a few spaces that are sound-treated that can result in better audio recordings.
Nelson Entrepreneurship Center Niches
Located on Thayer and Euclid, the Center has several sound treated booths they call "niches" on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floor. Intended to be used for short private phone calls, it is first come first serve and use should limited to about an hour.
The Rock Library has a soundproofed studio for video and audio recording that is great for podcasting. They are also reservable. You may need to ask for access the first time you go. They are located in the Digital Studio, which is on the right as you walk into reception.
The MMLs offer training in the Grad Center Studio, a self-service video studio that can be suitable for audio recording. That being said, the gym in the Bear Lair was recently moved to right above the studio, meaning you may hear a faint treadmill or two, so we only recommend using this resource during off-hours like the middle of the day or very late at night. Training is required to access the space but it can then be used and reserved 24/7.
