Last month we looked at inexpensive and mobile studios. This time around we're focusing on higher priced options.
Option 3: Moderate Price
Microphones from $200-$500 include the Harlan Hogan Signature Series Voice Over Microphone, Rode NT1-A, SE Electronics USB2200a,and Sure KSM32. Some are complete kits with shock mount, XLR cable, and pop shield. Others need microphone stands, shock mounts, cables, and pop filters like the Royer PS-101 and Avant Electronics PS-1. Two-hundred-dollar recording, mixing, editing, and mastering software programs include Adobe® Soundbooth® and Logic Express. For non-USB microphones, CEntrance MicPort Pro, Blue Icicle,
and MXL Mic Mate Pro are XLR to USB audio interfaces with
microphone preamplifiers. To hold your script, consider the Manhasset M48 music stand. Or, connect your iPad to the microphone stand with an iKlip.
For recording and playback, Sony, AKG, Shure, and Sennheiser make good studio-quality headphones for around $100. For better acoustics for under $150, the Porta-Booth® is pre-made and ready for you to set on the desk, place your microphone inside, and talk into. You can read scripts off lighted handheld devices like an iPad, Kindle, or smartphone, or add an inexpensive LED book light inside the box to read the printed script.
Option 4: Intermediate Price
Microphones from $500-$1200 include the JZ Microphone BH-2,which has a true, clear sound based on golden drops technology, the Sennheiser shotgun MKH-416, the AT4050 with its good, flat neutral sound, the warm-sounding AKG C414, or the Neumann TLM 103.
Recording software in the $350 area includes Adobe® Audition® and Sound Forge™. For acoustical help and ambient noise control in the $350 range, consider the Porta-Booth Pro® or Primacoustic® FlexiBooth 24" x 48" wall-mounted acoustic cupboard. If you have a spare closet that can be turned into a recording booth, Auralex makes studio foam wedge panels that glue to the walls.
For actors with clients who want to direct over the phone, add a JK Audio Inlinepatch or Telos Systems One phone patch. For real-time remote sessions that stream uncompressed audio to another location, Source-Connect has a range of choices to fit almost any voice talent's needs.
