Field Recording

Field recording is a key method in the voiceover world. It captures real sounds outside a studio. Voice actors work on many projects like TV shows and video games. Field recording makes these sounds more real for the audience.

Experts use top-notch gear for the best sound. We'll look into voice acting's history and how it differs from other voice recordings.

The Importance of Field Recording in the voiceover industry

Field recording is key in the voiceover world. It lets voice actors get real sounds for their projects. By leaving the studio, they can record sounds from different places. This makes their voiceovers sound more real and engaging.

During a three-week trip, voice actors work on many projects. They do in-flight safety announcements, national TV ads, corporate videos, and case studies. They turn hotel rooms into studios to make top-quality voiceover tracks.

To make great field recordings, voice actors need the right gear. They use a Neumann TLM 102 microphone, an Apogee MiC USB, an iPad for scripts, a MacBook Pro for recording, and an audio interface. They also use Adobe Audition CC and iZotope RX5 for editing on the go.

They set up recording spaces in hotel rooms using things like closet spaces and blankets. They work with other voice actors too. They use special panels and a Shure SM7B microphone for the best sound.

Sometimes, they even record in cars. This lets them get sounds from different places. It makes their work sound more real.

There are many kinds of mics for field recording. Shotgun mics focus on specific sounds and ignore background noise. Lav mics are small and great for reporting or vlogging. Dynamic mics, like the Shure SM58, work well in many places.

But, field recording has its challenges. Wind noise can ruin recordings. To fix this, voice actors use windshields to block out the wind.

In the end, field recording is vital for voiceovers. It brings real sounds to projects. This makes the audience feel like they're part of the action.

The Evolution and Growth of Field Recording

Field recording has changed a lot in the voice acting world. This change is thanks to new tech and new media. Now, voice actors can make better recordings than ever before.

It started way back in 1889 with Ludwig Koch. He made the first field recording of a Shama bird. Then, in the early 1960s, high-quality portable equipment made field recording popular.

The 1980s brought a big change with Digital Audio Tape (DAT). DAT made recordings sound better and cleaner. This made recording sound clearer and more detailed.

Now, there are different ways to record sounds. Artists use A/B, XY, and M/S techniques. They also try new things like placing mics in special spots. This helps them make unique sounds.

Field recording has changed the music and voiceover worlds. Voice actors can use many sounds to make their work sound real. This is because field recording is used in many areas, like music and research.

Now, making music tech is cheaper and easier. This means voice actors can try out new sounds. They use these sounds in music like electronic and pop to make cool sounds.

Field recording is important for art and science. Artists like Bernie Krause and Chris Watson have made big contributions. They have pushed the limits of what field recording can do.

Field Recording in the Voiceover Industry

In voiceover, field recording is very important. It lets voice actors add real sounds to their work. This makes their work sound better and more real.

New media and the need for cool audio have made field recording key in voiceover. As voice actors try new things, field recording will keep playing a big role in the future.

Equipment for Field Recording

For field recording, the right gear is key. It helps get great audio in various places. If you're into voice acting or sound, the right home studio setup is important.

Many nature recordists use field recorders and external mics. These setups are quiet, with levels as low as 11-15 dBA. They cost about $4,000 to $5,000.

If you're just starting or on a tight budget, there are cheaper options. For example, the Primo EM172 Stereo mics are quiet and affordable, costing $60 to $85.

Other key items for field recording are headphones, wind protection, memory cards, and batteries. Headphones help you check the sound and place mics right. Wind protection tools keep out wind noise. Memory cards store lots of audio, and batteries keep your gear running.

Top brands for field recording include Sennheiser, Shure, Schoeps, DPA, AKG, Neumann, and Lom. The Zoom H series and Sound Devices are popular for their great sound and features.

FAQ

What is field recording in the voiceover industry?

Field recording is a way to capture real sounds outside a studio. It makes voiceovers sound more real and engaging.

Why is field recording important in the voiceover industry?

It makes stories come alive by adding real sounds. This makes the audience feel like they are part of the story.

How has field recording evolved over the years?

It has grown with new technology and media. Now, it's key in making voice acting sound better.

What equipment is needed for field recording?

Voice actors need a microphone, headphones, and a sound card or interface. Good quality gear makes the sound clear and true.