Just a beginner

[4kings]

i do some voice over work for local radio and tv stations. am tired of running to the studio to record. i'd like to buy software and a good mic to record from my computer at home and send WAV or MP3 files to the studio for final production. i'm not an engineer, so i'd like a software program that's relatively easy to use. figure i'll need a good mic too. not sure how to get mic set up to computer (i already know that mic's made for pc's are junk) and need some help here too. thanks.

 

[M.Brane]

Welcome to the board!

It would help to know some more specifics like what computer platform your running, your budget, what level of quality you need, etc.



What kind of mics are they using at the studio for voice overs? Are they using a DAW? Which platform/software?

 

[4kings]

i'm working on a pc windows 2000 xp platform. budget of around $500 - $700. not sure of the mics used at the station. it's a radio station, so i'm assuming they're good quality. their platform is also pc. the software is some kind of SAW.

 

[M.Brane]

It might be a good idea to find out exactly what they're using there so you know what you can use to be compatible. Also, any time you can check out good gear for yourself, do so! The more stuff you experience first-hand, the easier it is to figure out what you need/want/like.

Also before you drop cash on DAW hardware (like soundcards) it's a good idea to find out if your PC is compatible. Some motherboards/chipsets are not good with audio.

Sorry I can't be more specific on that issue, but I'm one of those freaks that runs a Mac.

 

[Track Rat]

Also pick up an ElectroVoice RE-20 and a decent mic preamp.

 

[billisa]

I know the feeling...

I've been writing/voicing commercials for years, and having to run in to a studio, fitting into someone else's schedule is a pain. Plus, it's great to be able to do as many takes as you want, spending as much time as you need to get it "just right". Personally, I went with a standalone recorder, mini-studio setup because my PC is so squirrily. So now I can just hand in a finished CD and say, "Use this..."

What everyone else has said is right. Make sure you'll be compatible with what the local stations are using.

 

[chessparov]

Second the RE20 without hearing your voice, as that works for
many voices. The EV PL20 is basically the same microphone that
sells for $75-100 less used. The variable D design is easier to
work with as it lessens any proximity effect, and has good off-axis
response.

www.bswonline.com is a good place to check out new broadcast
microphones BTW.

Chris

 

[chessrock]

I'd get a shure sm7, then I'd hop on ebay and pick up a used symetrix 528 preamp/processor and an m-audio audiophile sound card.

 

[DJL]

4kings, you already know the mic at the studio works, get one just like it.