Delivering stellar voice overs begins with stellar equipment. But what do you truly need to start your studio? Or if you already have one, what might you need to add to make it your dream voice over studio?
In this article, we delve into the must-have microphones, soundproofing techniques, recording software, business management software, and more for any freelance voice over actor. Whether you're setting up your first studio or optimizing your current space, this guide will help ensure every word is crystal clear.
Starting with the most essential piece of equipment, the microphone. The quality of your microphone will directly impact the quality of your recordings, so it’s worth investing in a good one.
When choosing a microphone, you’ll want to consider the polar pattern, frequency response, and sensitivity before looking at your options. Nail these first, then start looking at what to buy.
This refers to the direction in which the microphone picks up sound. Cardioid microphones pick up sound from the front and are suitable for voice overs as they reject sound from the back and sides.
This refers to the range of frequencies that the microphone can capture. A flat frequency response is preferred for voice overs as it captures the natural sound of your voice.
This refers to how quiet sounds can be picked up by the microphone. A higher sensitivity microphone can pick up quieter sounds, but may also pick up more background noise.
These are generally cheaper and more durable, suitable for beginners or for recording in noisy environments. They won’t provide the best sound compared to other microphones, but they are sufficient for just getting started with a small investment.
These are more sensitive and can capture more detail in your voice, suitable for a professional studio setup. There are some affordable options online, with Logitech’s Blue line being arguably the most popular microphone on the internet.
An audio interface is a device that connects your microphone to your computer and converts the analog signal from your microphone into a digital signal that your computer can process.
Make sure the audio interface has enough inputs and outputs for your setup. If you plan to record multiple microphones or instruments at once, you will need an audio interface with multiple inputs.
The quality of the preamps in the audio interface will affect the sound quality of your recordings. Look for an audio interface with high-quality preamps.
Higher bit depth and sample rate will result in higher audio quality, but will also result in larger file sizes. A bit depth of 24 bits and a sample rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz is suitable for most voice over work.
Suitable for beginners or portable setups, these are easy to use and don’t require additional power. Most microphones will come with a USB audio interface, but you can also purchase higher-end options as well.
These offer higher data transfer rates and are extra helpful for professional setups or recording multiple inputs at once.
A good pair of closed-back headphones is essential for monitoring your recordings and for editing and mixing your audio.
Headphones with a flat frequency response will provide you with more accurate monitoring of your recordings.
Comfort: You’ll want to make sure your headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Especially if you are recording long sessions for things like audiobooks, or movie scripts.
These have a sealed back that prevents sound leakage and helps isolate your ears from background noise. These are great for any use-case, and a really nice pair of headphones will only run you a couple hundred dollars, though they can easily reach up into the thousands for the real audiophiles out there.
These have an open back that allows air and sound to pass through, offering a more natural sound, but they are not suitable for recording as they can cause sound leakage. As such, only use these headphones when reviewing your audio files.
There are various software options available for recording and editing your work. You’ll want to make sure whichever software you choose, it is compatible with your computer and your audio interface.
Also, you should look for recording software with features like multi-track recording, waveform editing, and noise reduction. A complex program will typically be more difficult to learn and navigate, while more simple options are easier to learn quickly.
Here are some softwares you might consider.
This is a free, open-source software that is suitable for beginners and offers basic recording and editing features. It’s a zero dollar option for those who are just dipping their toes into the waters of VO acting.
This is a professional software that offers advanced recording and editing features, as well as integrated noise reduction and restoration tools. There is a larger learning curve to become proficient in Audition, but it’s worth it if you want to use one of the best options on the market.
Pro Tools is more popular in the music industry than the VO Acting industry, but you could absolutely use it to create high-end voice overs. It’s very robust and more than most Voice Over Actors should need, but if you’re already used to it, then it’s a great option.
Most computers come with a default app for voice-recording. On Apple computers, you have GarageBand, while on most PCs you have Sound Recorder by Windows. Both applications can get the job done, but you’ll probably get a better end-product by using 3rd party software.
Managing your business efficiently is crucial for success as a freelance voice over actor. Business management software can help you keep track of your clients, projects, invoices, and payments.
Software like FreshBooks or QuickBooks can help you create and manage your invoices and payments.
Software like Trello or Asana can help you manage your projects and collaborate with clients or other freelancers.
This is where we come in. Here at Whelm, we have created an all-in-one software solution for freelance creatives to manage their business. You can send custom-branded invoices, sign digital contracts, send your work to clients for asynchronous feedback sessions, manage your projects, and more.
Soundproofing your recording space is crucial for achieving clean, noise-free recordings. Here are some soundproofing techniques and materials and considerations that can help reduce noise and reverberation in your recording space.
Larger spaces may require more soundproofing materials to effectively reduce noise and reverberation. As such, keeping your recording space small (but still comfortable) will not only provide better sound quality, but you’ll save money when outfitting it with soundproofing materials.
If your recording space is in a noisy environment, you may need to invest in more soundproofing materials or consider a different location. Some VO actors build a recording studio in their backyard to get away from a noisy home, or they purchase a membership at a studio where they can go and work throughout the week.
These are panels made of sound-absorbing materials that can be placed on the walls and ceiling of your recording space to absorb sound and reduce reverberation. There are thousands of cheap options on Amazon that we recommend you avoid. They do almost nothing for you. If you purchase acoustic panels, spend the extra money and get some that work from a reputable dealer.
These are devices designed to absorb low-frequency sound and can be placed in the corners of your recording space. Many VO actors buy these are make some on their own out of Owens Corning’s OC 703 or OC 705 materials.
These are devices designed to scatter sound waves and reduce flutter echoes and standing waves in your recording space.
A pop filter is a screen that is placed between you and the microphone to reduce plosive sounds (like 'p' and 'b' sounds) that can cause distortion in your recordings. Make sure you get a pop filter that has 2 layers of mesh for best results.
A boom arm or microphone stand is used to hold your microphone in place while you are recording. A boom arm can be attached to your desk or wall and allows you to adjust the position of your microphone easily. These are important because they help you place the microphone in an ideal position to get the best sound from your mouth.
Mass Loaded Vinyl, or MLV, is a heavy, dense, vinyl material that you can attach to your walls. MLV is one of the best materials for blocking low-frequency sound waves, like that of a passing truck.
If you plan on designing your own space, it is likely that you will layer some or all of these treatments. The more you do, the more likely it is you will have a perfect setup for audio recording.
High-quality audio cables are essential for connecting your equipment and ensuring clean, noise-free signal transmission. Choose high-quality audio cables with durable connectors and shielding to reduce interference. The thinner and cheaper the cable, the more interference you will likely experience.
These are professional-grade cables that are used to connect microphones to audio interfaces or mixers.
These are used to connect USB audio interfaces or USB microphones to your computer.
Setting up a home studio for voice over work involves a combination of essential equipment and software. From microphones, audio interfaces, and headphones to recording software, business management software, and soundproofing techniques, each component plays a vital role in ensuring the quality of your recordings and the efficiency of your workflow.
Remember to invest in high-quality equipment and software that suits your needs and budget, and continuously update and optimize your setup as you progress in your career. With the right tools and a well-organized workspace, you can deliver top-notch voice overs and build a successful freelance career.
This guide is a good starting point for any voice over actor at every stage of their career. Whether you're setting up your first studio or optimizing your current space, this guide will help ensure every word is crystal clear.
