Task:
Set-up ProTools session for recording audiobook/the spoken word.
Session Settings:
- 44.1 kHz (CBR)
- 192kbps or higher
- Mono Vocal Tracks
- Mono Master
Saves:
- Keep autosave enable
- Use the built-in bounce of WAV and MP3 (use the checkbox and fill out the MP3 dialog).
- For revisions or rollbacks, either use multiple tracks, or use the Save As feature and implement versioning with a log of what was changed in each save.
Room Tones:
- 1 second at beginning, 3 seconds at end
(Between 0.5 to 1, and 1-5 required, respectively)
Microphones:
- Dynamic Microphone (e.g. Shure SM7/7b, or minimally: Shure SM 57/58 close field to pickup, but far enough away for pop-filter)
- Avoid condenser omni microphones - the ambient noises, the higher noise floor, and vocal lack-of-quality
- Condenser studio microphones with -20 db filter cut work well for audio work if the space has sound-dampening (e.g. AKG P series, RODE, etc.)
Levels:
- Input level -12dBs to -18dBs (cleanest signal-to-noise, also level which pre-amps typically designed and perform best)
- Noise floor: < 70dBs
- Peak: -3 dB
Important:
Keep input high enough to not peak and high enough to not have to compressor boost (which increases the noise floor) sot stay above the -23 dBs minimum level required.
Filters/Effects:
1. Low Cut Filter EQ
2. Expander Gate
3. Vocal Processor
1. Low Cut EQ - remove the lower end EQ range with little or no vocal information, reduces noise
2. Expander Gate - remove or diminish breath intakes; however, cannot compensate for incorrect levels
3. Vocal Processor - limiter/compressor - use with care, watch the noise floor, and loss of dynamics
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