How Can I Choose A Quality Microphone To Record Voice Acting?
Once voice acting gigs have become a regular occurrence for the performer, setting up a studio at home makes absolute sense - not only does it save money for studio time, it also allows the vocal actor to create their recordings at any time of the day convenient for them. While it may sound like an excessive idea, the reality is that almost anyone can afford it in a very budget-friendly manner.
The arguably most important thing, besides the vocal talent for voice acting, is the microphone. It is responsible for capturing the performance; therefore, the acquisition of this device is one of the key ones for the whole home studio setup. Large-diaphragm condenser microphones are known for their sound sensitivity and ability to capture a wide frequency range, producing a rich and detailed sound, which is the reason they are highly recommended for various voice acting capture tasks. Another great option is the wide variety of options for XLR microphones that are known for superior sound quality and lower self-noise. The cheapest viable option is USB microphones, which allow integrating an analog-to-digital converter, simplifying the setup by connecting the microphone directly to a computer.
Do not forget about extra microphone accessories to make the recording process more convenient. While everyone’s preferences will be based upon their own individual recording habits, amongst the items that can help with voice acting recording is a microphone stand, as well as a pop filter that gets placed between the speaker and the microphone to reduce plosive sounds in recordings.
Why Would A Voice Actor Need An Audio Interface Device?
If the voice actor did not choose a USB microphone, they will require an audio interface for their home studio setup. The audio interface serves as the bridge between the microphone and a computer by converting the analog signal from the microphone into a digital signal, which then allows the computer to be able to process the digital signal. The audio interface also provides preamplifiers to the microphone, which boost its signal to a usable level.
Vocal performers should look for audio interfaces that feature at least one high-quality microphone preamp, low latency for monitoring, and reliable drivers for the respective operating system, as well as the appropriate input and output for the chosen microphone.
How Can Good Headphones Help With Vocal Performances?
While technically any headphones can do the task, it is highly advised to choose the closed-back circumaural type that goes over the user's ear and thus can provide a higher level of sound isolation. A better isolation level means the vocal performer will be able to better monitor their voice and the quality of the recording during the process of the acting performance without the risk of the microphone picking up the sounds from the headphones, known as "microphone bleed”. Monitoring is necessary for voice pitches and vocal performance timing, as well as feeling the overall quality of it all during the recording process. Headphone designs with the closed-back effectively minimize such echoes and significantly lower the risks of unwanted sounds getting captured in the voice acting recording. It is worth noting that open-back headphones are not an advisable choice for vocal recordings as they are prone to the aforementioned microphone bleeds.
When choosing the headphones, users should also consider how comfortable they feel on their ears as they will receive extended use for lengthy time periods. Amongst the factors that define the comfort for each person individually, typically is the weight of the chosen headphones, as well as the material of the earcups and headbands, e.g., memory foam or velour. Als,o the clamping force of headphones should be well-fitting to the user, as some models might be too tight and cause discomfort, while loose ones can not only be ill-fitting but also negatively affect the sound isolation.
To ensure a good long-term investment, voice actors should also look for professional headphones that are built to withstand regular and extensive use. Amongst the key factors for durability are the materials of the model, as well as the possibility of detaching and even replacing headphone parts like ear pads and cables to keep the headphones going strong even if some parts of it are showing their age.
