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Voice Over (Acting) Resources and Equipment Guide 2024
Discover 20+ essential voice over resource categories with 80+ handpicked options either used by us or by our friends, and will help your performance confidence. From microphones and recording software to marketing tools, these vetted recommendations will help you cut through the clutter. Equipment doesn’t have to be expensive, you just need to know how to use it properly, as a beginner or more advanced talent. If you need advice or training on audio equipment just click on the training menu or go here. All of our equipment, resources and training contacts are trusted by us!
Resource Library for Voice Actors 2024
This is an incredible resource library that will blow you away! Try not to get overwhelmed though.
Voice Actor Websites
Audio Engineering and Audio Equipment Help
If you want to GEEK OUT on Audio Engineering this is perfect!
Voice Over Body Shop with Dan Lenard and George Whittam
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Resource List
Nonprofit Organization Resources 2024
Charity on Top is an innovative ecosystem for individuals and companies who want to genuinely infuse meaningful, personal charitable giving into their daily lives and work. Through charity gift cards, philanthropic consulting, fiscal sponsorship and benefits for over 1.9 million charities we support, Charity On Top is intentionally disrupting how we think about nonprofit giving and pushing more money to organizations to help solve our greatest challenges.
Audio Recording & Editing Software
If you opt for an annual subscription, Adobe Audition CC is available for approximately $20 per month and has full functionality. All Adobe products can be a bit overwhelming, so if you need help try YouTube for some additional training. It will take practice and patience just like most of everything in voice over! Even people with little to no experience with Adobe can watch the free videos and get step by step instructions on installing and using the software for voice over. Adobe products are also an industry standard.
Audacity is a remarkable audio software solution that stands out for being free and open source.
While it may not boast the fanciest of interfaces or extravagant features, it delivers precisely what you require for voice-over work. With Audacity, you can effortlessly record, edit, and export audio, making it a reliable and accessible choice for individuals seeking a straightforward yet effective tool to handle their voice-over projects. Its simplicity and accessibility have made it a popular go-to option for voice artists and audio enthusiasts alike.
Source-Connect is a cutting-edge solution that transcends geographical barriers, allowing studios to achieve global connectivity for voice, music, and sound recording. It serves as the industry standard for remote collaboration, enabling real-time, high-quality sessions with professionals from all corners of the world. With Source-Connect, creatives can come together virtually, bridging distances to work seamlessly, regardless of where they are located. It’s the go-to tool for those seeking to bring the world closer and collaborate with ease over the internet.
Domain Names & Hosting
The foundation of many voice-over businesses begins with the creation of a website. It all starts with the crucial decision of selecting a memorable and apt domain name for your voice-over venture, often opting for your own name for a personal touch. Utilizing online domain registration services, you can explore available options and secure the perfect URL that will represent your voice-over business in the digital realm. This initial step sets the stage for establishing your online presence and reaching out to potential clients and collaborators in the voice-over industry.
Experience the advantage of affordable power with our blazing fast premium cloud web hosting services, designed to meet your needs while remaining budget-friendly. Enjoy complete control over your website’s development and management through our intuitive, “guru-free” control panel, allowing you to tailor your online presence to your exact specifications. Rest assured with unmatched secure hosting, as our unique Security Shield is included free in all our hosting packages, safeguarding your reputation, business, and brand. Count on supreme reliability, with the peace of mind that your website is operational 24/7, 365 days a year, thanks to our dedicated team of SuperHeroes who monitor it around the clock.
File Transfer Services
Sharing large files happens every day in the world of voice over. It’s not unusual to share more than 100mb in one single file. Most email servers cannot handle such a load. that is where a file sharing service is critical! Even our website wants you to share your large files after you have compressed them. We use WeTransfer ALL THE TIME! It’s free and it never fails!
- Dropbox offers a versatile suite of services that simplify your digital life and enhance collaboration with your clients. With the ability to securely back up files in the cloud, share photos and videos effortlessly, and more, Dropbox empowers you to streamline your workflow. One of its key advantages is the assurance that your files remain exclusively yours, stored conveniently in a single, accessible location. Whether you need to deliver large files or safeguard your valuable content, Dropbox provides secure cloud storage that’s accessible at any time, ensuring you have the flexibility and peace of mind to recover your files whenever needed.
- WeTransfer is a widely-used file-sharing platform that simplifies the process of sending large files to colleagues, clients, or collaborators. Known for its user-friendly interface and efficiency, WeTransfer enables users to effortlessly upload and transmit files up to 2GB in size for free or up to 20GB with a paid subscription. Its straightforward approach eliminates the need for complex sign-ups, making it a convenient choice for quickly sharing documents, images, videos, and more. WeTransfer’s versatility and accessibility have made it a popular tool for creative professionals, businesses, and individuals seeking a hassle-free way to transfer files and share their work with ease.
Acoustical Room Treatments
One of the most important parts of your recording space is acoustical treatment. Proper acoustical treatment gives you a clean voice-over recording by controlling reflections that come from walls, corners and ceilings.
Professional Sound Absorbing Properties – Acoustic foams are installed to reduce noise pollution as they remove echoes and background sounds not by blocking the sound but by absorbing it. Acoustic foams are used to control the reverberation sounds make and this is quite different from soundproofing. Use our acoustic foam to treat any sized areas including acoustic studio, recording booths, control rooms and radio studios. They effectively delete standing waves and flutter.
- UPGRADE and CREATE YOUR RECORDING STUDIO
- You can vastly improve the quality of your recordings by removing excess and unwanted sounds in your recording space. It takes some tweaking and experimenting but with the right room treatments, you can improve your audio recordings.
- Professional recording studios require superior sound reduction. With these corner sound panels, you can help achieve this for your podcast, voice over, or YouTube recording sessions.
- Are you a GAMER? MAKE YOUR STUDIO AND STREAMING ROOM POP
- Give your gaming room that extra design aesthetic to create the ultimate gaming setup. Make your room pop out during streaming sessions.
- PREMIUM DENSITY – These bass traps have a density of 30kg/m3, 25% more dense than top competing products. These panels are excellent for recording studios, home theaters, vocal booths, control rooms, and offices.
- These blankets are designed to cover the entire wall from floor to ceiling for proper acoustic room treatment.
Acoustic panels for sound absorption, are made from the Producer’s choice sound blanket material. We call them “Acoustic Panels” to point out their best use as wall panels to cancel reverberation from the entire wall from floor to ceiling in one treatment.
Noise Reduction efficiency: NRC = 0.8. ( G-75 test). If hang in pleated fashion NRC = 0.95 ( 95% noise reduction).
Using software for recording and editing voice overs is the primary way to create any project. So just keep in mind that you may need a computer with enough memory to run such large programs and software. If you are new to audio recording, you may want to hire a professional to help you with adding the software to your computer and adjusting the settings for your current recording space. Many times they can help you with this remotely so it’s an easier way to get started.
Whether you have a closet, small room or DIY PVC pipe recording space, we know it can be overwhelming. YouTube has lots of videos for voice over beginners who are establishing their first recording space. Trust us…it’s something we have all done and had to learn. You can go to the TRAINING page and check out some of the vetted professionals who can help you with audio engineering.
Audio Interfaces
The evolution of voice recording technology has significantly expanded the range of options available for connecting your microphone to your computer, surpassing the limitations of built-in sound cards. Your choice of an audio interface largely depends on the specific input types supported by your computer. In the voice-over community, several popular and enduring options have emerged that can serve you well for years in your recording studio. These tried-and-true choices offer reliability and versatility, ensuring that your voice recordings maintain the highest quality and meet the demands of professional voice-over work.
- Apollo Solo and Apollo Solo USB stand as the pinnacle of desktop recording audio interfaces for both Mac and Windows users. They excel in delivering top-tier audio conversion, boasting two Unison mic preamps, and include a suite of UAD plug-ins that empower users to achieve album-quality recordings in real time. These compact 2×4 interfaces kickstart their impressive capabilities with the renowned Apollo A/D and D/A conversion, surpassing the sonic capabilities of others in their class. Thanks to Unison technology and integrated UAD-2 processing, you can effortlessly record through iconic studio tools such as the UA 610-B Tube Preamp & EQ, LA-2A, 1176 compressors, and more, all with minimal latency, ensuring an unparalleled recording experience.
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Interface – Software Suite (Download) – USB Type-C to USB Type-A Cable – Focusrite 3-Year Limited Warranty
- Elevate your recordings with the single 3rd Generation Scarlett mic preamp, offering a pristine sound out of the box and the iconic Air mode for legendary Focusrite ISA mic pres effect, known and loved by professionals worldwide
- Capture your guitar or bass with unparalleled clarity using the high-impedance, high-headroom instrument input, guaranteeing distortion-free, professional-quality recordings every time
- Simplify your workflow and achieve optimal recording levels effortlessly with the iconic Gain Halos, providing visual feedback for quick and precise adjustments
- Experience the true essence of your audio with two balanced outputs, ensuring hum-free monitoring, mixing, and mastering sessions that meet the highest studio standards
Hard Drives (Portable)
Maintaining high-quality voice-over files in formats like .wav and .MP4 often demands a considerable amount of storage space. To ensure the optimal performance of your computer and preserve the integrity of your valuable recordings, it’s highly advisable to consider utilizing an external hard drive for storage, and having a backup drive as well. This approach not only helps you manage your data efficiently but also safeguards against data loss, providing a secure and organized solution for storing your voice-over assets. By offloading these large files to external drives, you can keep your computer running smoothly while still retaining easy access to your essential recordings whenever you need them.
Experience unparalleled performance with lightning-fast read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s with this versatile external storage solution. Compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebook, Android, Linux, PS4, and Xbox One, thanks to its USB-C 3.1 Gen2 and USB-A connectors, this drive ensures seamless connectivity across various platforms. Its robust construction, featuring an anodized aluminum core, provides exceptional durability, making it drop-proof up to 7.5 feet and resistant to extreme temperatures, shocks, and vibrations. With the backing of Micron, one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of flash storage, you can trust in the reliability and performance of this storage solution for your data needs.
Cordless Fan for your hot recording space!
- Melissa uses this fan!! She has one for every room. UPGRADED Long Life Rechargeable Battery Operated Fan: 3600mAh battery(built-in) supports Max 24H working. One full charge works for about 8-24hrs depending on the settings. 2 in 1 USB & Battery Powered Fan: KARECEL tiny fan is powered by not only battery but also USB, it is chargeable fan so you don’t always have to have it plugged in, you can place it anywhere and everywhere you go. This little fan can be charged via USB port from your computer, power bank, USB charger or other devices with USB output.
Headphones- listen with them at a local professional centeron
Do not use noise cancelling headphones!! Make sure they are comfortable to you! Voice actors often have their preferences when it comes to using headphones during their performances. Some find them beneficial for monitoring their delivery, while others prefer not to use them to maintain a natural and uninhibited vocal performance. The key is to adopt the approach that enhances your ability to deliver exceptional voice-over work consistently. Whether you choose to wear headphones or not, what truly matters is creating top-notch voice-over recordings that resonate with your audience and meet the unique demands of each project. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and it should align with what enables you to perform at your best and produce outstanding voice-over content day in and day out.
- The AKG K52 over-ear headphones are engineered for professional-grade audio performance, offering a superb balance of sound quality, comfort, and longevity. These headphones feature high-quality drivers that deliver impressive bass, well-defined midrange tones, and crystal-clear highs, ensuring you hear every detail with precision. Designed with an over-ear style and lightweight construction, they provide exceptional comfort during extended listening sessions. Their closed-back design effectively eliminates audio bleed, allowing for privacy and uninterrupted focus. With a convenient single-sided cable, a self-adjusting headband for a personalized fit, and replaceable earpads, the AKG K52 headphones are built to withstand the demands of rigorous use while ensuring an exceptional listening experience.
Microphones- Go play and try microphones at a local professional center
If you do, buy from a reputable place like Sweetwater…Make sure you know what the return policy is and read reviews. There’s a wide range of microphones available, catering to various budgets and preferences. The choice of the best voice-over microphone for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and the characteristics of your voice.
Ultimately, the best voice-over microphone for you will be one that complements your voice, suits your recording environment, and fits within your budget. It’s often beneficial to try out different microphones or seek advice from professionals or audio experts to find the ideal microphone that captures your voice’s unique qualities.
Exceptionally well built entry level vocal and general purpose dynamic mic. Well balanced frequency response with a warm, clear and transparent signal. Cardioid pick-up pattern provides excellent feedback and spillage rejection. The rugged metal construction and internal damping isolates handling noise. Ideal for general vocal and instrument miking and club PA. Complete with silent on-off switch as standard. Unbeatable quality at an ultra competitive price.
- Cardioid pick-up pattern provides excellent feedback and spillage rejection
- Rugged metal construction
- Internal damping isolates handling noise
- Ideal for club, instrument and vocal PA
- Silent on/off switch
- The Shure SM58 S is a unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone designed for professonal vocal use in sound reinforcement and studio recording. A highly effective, built-in, spherical filter minimizes wind and breath “pop” noise. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The SM58 has a tailored vocal response for a sound which is a world standard. Rugged construction, a proven shock mount system, and a steel mesh grille.
- EXEPTIONAL VOCAL PERFORMANCE – The SM58S delivers high-quality vocal reproduction, thanks to its tailored frequency response and brightened midrange for clear and present vocals.
- INDUSTRY STANDARD – The first choice for performers around the globe, the SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is ready to bring any performance to life. From the club to the stadium, Shure has your back.
- CLARITY & CARE – The uniform cardioid polar pattern reproduces every note as it was intended, delivering warm, crisp sound time after time.
- LEAVE BACKGROUND NOISE BEHIND – The SM58 has a spherical mesh grille and built-in pop filter to keep any unwanted noise out of the mix.
- DROP THE MIC – The durable construction and break-resistant stand adapter makes the SM58 the perfect companion on the road, going strong through the toughest performances.
- VERSATILE – The SM58 can hold its own live onstage as well as in the studio, isolating between vocals and instruments.
The SM7B microphone is a versatile and trusted choice for a wide range of audio applications, making it a go-to option for studio recording, home recording, podcasting, and streaming. Renowned by leading vocalists, podcasters, and streamers worldwide, this microphone boasts a dynamic cartridge with a smooth, flat, and wide-range frequency response, ensuring exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech.
The SM7B features a classic cardioid pattern, designed to reject off-axis audio, allowing you to sing or speak comfortably at different angles while capturing the sound exactly as you intend with minimal coloration. Moreover, advanced electromagnetic shielding has been incorporated to combat hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment, ensuring your sound remains interference-free and pristine.
Microphone Boom Arms
To achieve optimal microphone placement for your voice-over work, you’ll require a reliable method to position your microphone close to your mouth. While some voice actors prefer fixed microphone stands, mic boom arms offer a versatile alternative. These arms conveniently attach to a desk or table, providing a high degree of flexibility when it comes to positioning your microphone. This adjustability allows you to find the perfect angle and distance to capture the best sound quality and ensure a comfortable recording experience.
The Rode PSA 1 is a professional-grade studio desk boom arm designed for broadcast-style setups. It features sturdy construction and is equipped with standard microphone threading, making it compatible with a wide range of microphones. With a reach of over 3 feet both horizontally and vertically, it offers excellent flexibility in positioning your microphone precisely where you need it for your recording or broadcasting needs. The 360-degree rotation capability allows for seamless adjustments, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect angle for your microphone to capture the best sound quality.
Microphone Stand
In the world of audio recording, the venerable microphone stand is the quiet workhorse that brings it all together.
Selecting a microphone stand is really about figuring out the sound source you want to record. Sure, clips and shock mounts can be switched out to fit different mics, but think about which microphones you prefer.
- Classic. Historically popular mic stand featuring a familiar classic-style, low-profile, solid, sand-cast base and a straight shaft, perfect for singers, vocalists, stand-up comedy, and speaking engagements.
- Sturdy. Heavy 10″ metal base delivers stability while maintaining portability. Rubber feet reduce vibrations and increase grip to prevent skids and keep the stand and mic safely in place.
- Adjustable. Heavy-duty clutch reliably adjusts the height 33″–60″ for precise mic placement and to accommodate various stage, studio, event, and venue applications.
- Compatible. The upper shaft accepts a wide range of standard mic clips, booms, and other mic accessories and secures them on its solid-metal 5/8″-27 threaded end with a tightening washer.
- Professional. Durable black finish resists chips and scratches to stay looking new while unobtrusively blending into any stage setup for a professional presentation.
Vocal Booths
Vocal booths are indispensable tools in the world of voice-over, providing a controlled and noise-free environment essential for high-quality audio recordings. These purpose-built spaces effectively isolate the voice talent from external noise, ensuring that recordings are pristine and free from unwanted background sounds. By reducing ambient noise, vocal booths enable voice actors to focus on delivering their best performances without distractions, resulting in professional-grade voice-over work that meets the stringent demands of the industry. In essence, vocal booths are the foundation of exceptional voice-over recordings, allowing for clarity, precision, and a polished final product that resonates with audiences.
Melissa has a WhisperRoom and it was a game changer. She bought hers for cash with proceeds from her voice over business. WhisperRoom, Inc. has been a trusted manufacturer and global supplier of Sound Isolation Enclosures since 1990. Their expertise lies in crafting high-quality sound isolation booths that effectively minimize ambient and acoustic noise. These versatile enclosures have found applications in various fields, including serving as dedicated vocal booths for voice-over professionals. WhisperRoom’s commitment to sound isolation technology has made them a go-to choice for individuals and businesses worldwide seeking top-notch solutions to create quiet and controlled environments for their audio recording and voice-over needs.
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