In order to participate in the voiceover industry nowadays, a home studio is required.
The words 'home studio' have somewhat of a daunting quality to them, don't they? You may be asking yourself...how am I, a performer, supposed to be able to become an audio engineer overnight? Don't worry. You don't have to be.
What casting and agents are looking for is very basic: A clear sound with little editing and no background noise or reverb. That's it! Most importantly, they want to hear YOU- your choices, your talent and what only YOU can bring to the read. Reach out to us if you wanna start coaching- we would love to help you find your voice in voiceover!
Below, we'll round up our favorite products that you'll need to build your very own basic recording studio for voiceover at home! These are just our recommendations. Feel free to do your own research and do what works for you on your timeline and budget. And don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Have fun!
Click on the photos or the links to purchase!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own.
Microphones
A fantastic starter cardioid condenser microphone.
A step up from the AT2020 and a well respected mic in the industry.
Fancy Shmancy Mic. The dream!
Interfaces
An easy to use interface that is cheap and works well!
The mic will plug into this with XLR cables. A great interface if you plan on being the only person recording.
If you think you might record with another artist or instrument, you'll want to get this guy!
Reflection Filters
A good affordable option that provides extra sound absorption.
Another good option for dampening room noise.
If you need even more sound dampening protection, you may wanna purchase this or something similar!
Pop Filters
A good inexpensive pop filter to control plosives.
Another inexpensive option with a little more coverage.
Looks cool. Also not too expensive!
Mic stands
A good option if you like standing while you record.
If you like to sit or are tight on space.
A good option if you like this vibe- comes with shock mount and pop filter!
Miscellaneous Wires etc.
Grab a couple of these! You'll need them to plug everything in.
These will usually come with your interface, but if they don't you'll need to get cables like this or similar for the power to work with your mic!
If you have a newer mac, you might need one of these to plug your usb cables into!
An often overlooked and very important part of the setup. YOU NEED THIS for the mic to sit on!
Allows you to hear yourself exactly how you will sound in the record.
Whoa baby- ALSO very important! PAD your space to avoid unwanted reflections! Doesn't work with regular tape for adhesive, so get creative with gorilla tape or another adhesive!
Good option for covering a large space. This one has grommets to hang from a bar or nails! You can also use regular blankets as well as towels to dampen sound.
Bundle Packages
There ya have it! Check our our home studio 101 video HERE to learn about all the above recommendations. We also work with the fabulous team over at Sweetwater for product recommendations if you need more assistance. Reach out to us to get started on your VO journey, we would love to help.