Voice Recordings

[bluesky]

I think this might have been covered in the old forums but...
... what advice to you Geni have for making CD's for clients? I'm thinking of doing it onto my PC and then copying discs. My questions are about which mic to choose? do I need software? what's the best way to a quality sound?

Thanks in advance 

[iansharp]

I'm having a good result using a mini-disc recorder. I have a tiny clip microphone that I bought from Mappins and it gives a surprisingly high quality (as in CD quality) recording. Once recorded, I use the Sony software 'SonicStage' to transfer the file to my PC as a .wav file. Then it goes onto a CD and can be saved as an MP3.

I had feedback from a client just yesterday that he was surprised by the high quality of the CD, and that he's used it to review the coaching session and work on his goals.

I've used the same system to record a talk that I gave with equally good results.

If I need to edit the file I use Audacity, which is free (open source). The next part of my strategy is to find some music that can be mixed into the file, to liven things up for podcasts and other plans that I have.

Mini-disc is just one option - it will be interesting to read of the set up that others are using.

Be well,
Ian

[Baka]

I use a system which I put together consisting of headsets (headphones and mic), Mixer and an analogue to USB recorder which records directly on to USB Stick memory. This allows you to plug the USB stick into your PC and transfer the files straight across for editing (which I also do with Audacity). The system also allows you to use other microphones should you wish and also allows you to add music to the mix during a session. You can also add the music later in Audacity.

I currently work in the audio industry and have just started a company selling this to Therapists, places of Learning etc. I'm working on a fuller website with online shop etc. but have some details online presently at www.soundmindsystems.co.uk

I'd be interested in feedback (not audible of course!) on the system and any variations that I could also produce and would be happy to answer any questions.

Lee

[nick kemp]

As someone who owns a recording studio and regularly records all live events and all client sessions, check the Edirol E-09 which is better than the mini disc format I used to use as this allows recording to SD cards, so you can copy across wav or mp3 files directly. It has in built mics as well and is really small and portable

Regards


Nick Kemp
www.nickkemp.com

[marksherwood]

Hi Guys,

So far i have written the script for a CD that i wish to produce, sell, make a fortune and then if i have the time (or inclination), conqour the world.

Please bear in mind i am a complete technophobe (i am constantly amazed by the fact that if i flick a switch on the wall...a light comes on in the room !)

So, in plain english (VERY plain english)..what do you guys recommend as a next step ?

Cheers,

Mark

[Jay Budzynski]

Hi Mark

Well-done on taking a leap, ok go download http://audacity.sourceforge.net  and get a Mic that you can plug into your PC, and get playing with recording your voice, a little tip Please don’t Laugh as it may sound silly yet you will be able to control your voice more by doing this, get some cotton wool and plug one of your ears up, what happens is you get you hear a fuller richer voice and that means you can pay attention to the tonal infections, that you create when you talk.
Now a Bit of KIT you can buy is Cool Edit pro, which is a computer based studio, if you can read, then it as a user guide that will help you work it out. Cool edit as a cool Brain wave sync system built in so you can record what you like, and the brain wave sync will set the pace for the entrainment, that you can set. Then you can add layers and sound textures, etc.  if that seems to much.
Then you could look at http://www.transparentcorp.com/products/np/index.php  neuro programmer 2 will allow you to create custom sessions that you can turn into CDS
As for publishing check out www.lulu.com  they have a lot of options of self publishing. There is always e-bay as well.

Jay   

[nick kemp]

Hi Guys,

So far i have written the script for a CD that i wish to produce, sell, make a fortune and then if i have the time (or inclination), conqour the world.

Please bear in mind i am a complete technophobe (i am constantly amazed by the fact that if i flick a switch on the wall...a light comes on in the room !)

So, in plain english (VERY plain english)..what do you guys recommend as a next step ?

Cheers,

Mark

This event in May explores everything about creating an NLP/Hypnosis audio product from language construction to technical info as well as recording a product during the workshop.

This will be a very small group of less than 10 people!

See http://www.tranceformingnlp.com/tranceforming_cds_masterclass_create_nlp_hypnosis_cds.php

[Baka]

I'd advise not to use the computers internal soundcard as they are often not particularly high quality and use unbalanced inputs which can pick up all sorts of noise from the outside world- hums, crackles and at worst, the local Taxi firm's radio.

If you do record onto PC, I'd recommend a USB audio interface or USB mic like the Rode Podcaster  (http://www.rodemic.com/?pagename=Products&product=Podcaster) which is a quality microphone with a USB connector on the end. Your PC will detect the mic when you plug it in and off you go. Cost on it is around £125.

Some of the major UK broadcasters are using them and are very pleased with the results.

Let me know if you need any more info!

Lee

[marksherwood]

Thanks guys,

After all that...any reason why i shouldnt just go to a local recording studio (of which there are dozens local to me) ?

Not being in any way 'funny' with that question, i honestly do not know what the difference might be

Any advice appreciated.

cheers,

Mark

[Baka]

Neil pretty much summed it up there I reckon- If you don't have the time/inclination to learn how to use a software package, the studio option would suit you fine and all you really need to do is turn up with a well rehearsed script (cuts down on studio time and therefore cost).

Remember though that once the recording part is done, there is more work to be done on editing and production of the final product so make sure it is clear what you are getting for your money from the Studios. Let me know where you are based Mark- I may know of some decent studios in the area.

Lee

[D - J]

In short, if you really don't want to learn it all (not to much to learn though but I know computers etc can be a pain sometimes)

Whoops, yes there is lots to learn for learning it 'all' with music packages etc and production, but, well I learn as I need to and as I go along. There is still tons of the manual for me to read (even though I've progressed through the years from Sonar 2 to 6) but I try not to let it stop me just 'getting on with it' even though at the moment I'm slowly doing it at my own pace.

[marksherwood]

Hi guys,

Thanks for all of the great advice.

It is looking like the studio option is my favoured route at the moment (who knows what the future may hold)

Lee : I am in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. A google search did show a lot of studios locally, but once again, any advice will be gladly taken.

Any info regarding what i should be paying (and paying for) would be apprecited as well.

Cheers,

Mark

[Baka]

Mark,

Couldn't find any studios on my database for Milton Keynes but after a Google I found this one that looks up to the job:

http://www.logicom-sound.co.uk/

Prices look reasonable and the studio has up to date facilities.

Lee

[marksherwood]

Thanks Lee,

That studio is approximately 3 mins walk from my house...and i didnt even know it was there !..spooky ?!?!?

I will definately be checking it out.

Now, my second question(s):

What is an MP3 ?

How do i go about making one ?

How do i get it 'out there' ?

What does the MP in MP3 stand for ?


All answers in plain English please 

Cheers guys,

Mark

[Baka]

Hi Mark,

How strange that that studio is so close. It's a sign (said in a Mony Phythonesque way)

The definition of MP3 is this – MP3 is an acronym for MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 audio layer 3. MP3 is the file extension for MPEGaudio layer 3. Layer 3 is one of three coding schemes (layer 1, layer 2 and layer 3) for the compression of audio signals. Layer 3 uses perceptual audio coding and psychoacoustic compression to remove all superfluous information (more specifically, the redundant and irrelevant parts of a sound signal. The stuff the human ear doesn't hear anyway).

Basically, you get more audio in less hard drive space with minimal loss in quality.

As for making one, once again, I'd mention Audacity (free software). With this programme, you can load in audio and export it as MP3. It also allows you to add in Details of the recording (known as ID3 information).

Once you have an MP3 together, there are various ways of getting it on the net. I've only dabbled in this but have a recording put on www.payloadz.com which can be used in conjunction with Paypal. Not the most professional way of doing it, but until I have more products to sell, it suits me fine.

Lee

[marksherwood]

Hi,

Thanks for the great reply Lee (a few long words in there, but i just about coped with them)

 

So, let me get this straight:

1 - I go to the studio and leave with my CD in my grubby mitts ?

2 - I download 'Audacity' and 'turn' my CD into an MP3 ?

3 - Sell by whatever means (Payloadz, LuLu etc) ?

4 - Tell everyone in my local pub that this technology lark aint as hard as its cracked up to be ?

5 - Cancel my lifelong subscription to 'Technophobes anonymous' (apparantly they send an electronic newsletter every month, i hevent had one yet ! , have complained to Royal mail, but for some reason they just laughed at me. I think the postman is nicking it for himself !)

Have i got the jist of it ?

Prepare for more questions re: marketing to a niche market.

Thanks for all the help and advice guys.

Cheers,

Mark

[Baka]

Pretty much it Mark.

Not sure how you are going to cancel your subscription to Technophobes anonymous- You need to send them an e-mail back. maybe your postman would do it if you ask him nicely! 

Can't wait to hear the results!

Lee

[Michelle Young]

I have worked on many Jingles for a on-line radio, how we gernally make the jingles is using the pc, recording with Sony Sound Forge, which you can manipulate a lot, and add music to, remove any stutters or mistakes. We have found it a very good piece of software, and we produce very good jingles from it. We dont go to expense on the microphones as long as they are jack plugs and not usb port ones.
I am by no means as technical as some people are on the forum, this is just doing it the laymans way and producing great results without too much complexity.

Hugs
Michelle

Star trekking across the universe, only going forward cause we cont find reverse

[Baka]

Thought I'd just mention to everyone who makes recordings or wants to make recordings that there is a new operating system out dedicated to media production- has some great software for audio, video and image manipulation an it is free!

You can download it at www.ubuntustudio.com

It is Linux based so will not run your normal Windows or Mac software, but is ideal if you just use your computer for office applications, e-mail, web browsing etc.

Lee

[Barcode The Zebra]

I use:

Barcode The Zebra for my "creative" stuff (coaster/mousemat production, authoring childrens stories, music writing and production, artwork "altering" and graphics etc).  In case you're wondering, the name came from a childrens book that I wrote for my daughter (see below)

I also use The Doghouse for my mini-recording Studio (because every time I record a song I seem to end up in the doghouse!!)

I use Gravity as the name of my "band" as I wanted something that was down to earth and you can't get any more down to earth than Gravity can you?

We were going to start a family business many years ago using the first names of me, my dad, my mum, and my brother (in that order).  It was going to be called Colin Roy Ann Paul Ltd., but we decided that they probably wouldn't let us do it and the initials would probably not inject confidence in the business!

The story that started the BTZ name? (FEEDBACK WOULD BE MUCH APPRECIATED SO PLEASE RUN IT PAST ANY CHILDREN IN THE FAMILY) :


THE ADVENTURES OF BARCODE THE ZEBRA
by
Colin Mather

This is a story
A story of course
About a zebra who dreamed
Of becoming a horse

His name is Barcode
And his mum and dad
Liked him as a zebra
And they were so sad

With his stripey body
And his stripey mane
He looks like a stripey horse
But he?s a zebra all the same

One day young Barcode
Got covered in paint
Now he looked like a horse
But a horse he ain?t

?Why is it a horse
That you want to be??
Said his mother one day
?Not a zebra like me??

?Oh the fun I would have
Wearing saddle and tack
With a child perched up high
Way up high on my back?

?I?d run the Grand National
I?d pull great big carts ?
But you can?t as a zebra?
Said Barcode, ?You can?t!?

?Be glad you?re a zebra?
Said Great Uncle Sam
?For that?s what you are
And that?s what I am?

?I could pull Royal carriages
Past all the crowds
I could hold my head high
I could be oh so proud?

So Barcode decided
To try with some paint
But however hard he tried
His black stripes showed through faint

?It?s really not fair
And it?s really not right
Whatever I do
I?m still black and white!?

Barcode?s dad said ?Tell me ?
What would be worse
Being happy as a zebra
Or sad as a horse??

One morning the zebras
Awoke early and found
A note from young Barcode ?
Hoof marks in the ground

?By now you will
Have noticed of course
I have run away
To live as a horse?

Poor old Barcode?s
Mum and Dad
They started to cry
They were so sad

?Our little Barcode
Has run away
What can we do?
What can we say??

Barcode found a circus
As he walked down the road
He walked into the Big Top
And his story he told

?Not much call for zebras?
Said the man, ?But I could use
A black and white horse
In my circus I suppose?

He showed young Barcode
To a cage and then he said
?This is your new home
You look tired, so go to bed?

Barcode thought ?How lucky
That I?ve found such a nice man?
But at six o?clock next morning
He was woken with a BANG

For there, with a whip,
Stood the man by the door
Barcode thought ?I don?t like
This man any more?

He saw the whip rise
He heard a great crack
And he felt the pain
As the whip hit his back

Barcode thought
?I must come up with a plan
To get out of this circus ?
Get away from this man?

Up on the ladder Barcode went
On the trapeze
But it?s hard to swing gracefully
When you?ve got zebra?s knees

While all of the people
Held their breath
Barcode swung and then jumped
Past the ?Great Wall of Death?

He got into the cannon
The Human Cannonball was there
?Get out? he said
?We?ll go up in the air!?

?That suits me just fine
That?s where I want to go
To get out of this circus
To get out of this show?

He landed back down
With a bit of a bump
Then got up and ran off
With a skip and a jump

He ran and he ran
For what seemed like hours
And he only stopped once
To smell some flowers

So Barcode ran on
And he came to a race course
He thought ?What a nice place
To become a great racehorse!?

Barcode said to the owner
?I really like your course
I know I look like a zebra
But I really am a horse?

The owner said
?There?s no reason why
I should not
Give you a try?

The owner was really
A very nice man
And Barcode decided
To win his race if he can

The owner?s name
Was David O?Tinn
And he really wanted
Young Barcode to win

The biggest race
Was the very next day ?
The Grand National?s
The hardest of races they say

People came from all over
To Mr O?Tinn?s course
To try and win money
By betting on a horse

People laughed at young Barcode
And filled him with dread
But ?Don?t worry, young fella?
Kind Mr O?Tinn said

All the horses lined up
And the people still laughed
And poor Barcode the zebra
Felt ever so daft

But on top of young Barcode
Sat David O?Tinn
?Don?t worry, young Barcode
I know you can win!?

The race started.  Poor Barcode
Was running in last
All of the horses
Had galloped on past

?I know you can do it?
Said Mr O?Tinn
So Barcode ran harder
And started to grin

The quicker he ran
The more fun he had
Over fences, past horses
NOW he wasn?t sad

He ran quicker and quicker
Third?..Second?..First
Then over the finish line
With a final last burst

The people stopped laughing
And a cheer went up
As David O?Tinn lifted
The bright golden cup

?We did it together
And I am so proud?
Said David O?Tinn
In front of the crowd

Said Mr O?Tinn
?Tie up all your loose ends
Go back to your family
Go back to your friends?

?I know, when you said
You?re a horse, that you lied
But I?m not angry
I don?t mind?

?As a zebra you
Belong in the wild
Go with my best wishes
Leave racing behind?

?Now it?s getting dark
You must stay for the night
We?ll say our farewells
In the morning light?

Next morning as the sun
Rose into the sky
Barcode and O?Tinn
Said their sad, long goodbye

Barcode said to Mr O?Tinn
As they cried
?Thank you, oh thank you
For being so kind?

So Barcode set off
On his way
He slept each night
And he walked by day

Barcode walked
For days and days
Then, one day, saw mountains
In the sun?s morning rays

Barcode thought
?Not far to roam
Just one more day
And I?ll be?HOME!?

Next day Barcode
Walked on and on
But when he got to his home
His family had gone

He looked all around
Didn?t know where to go
Then he met a young turtle
Who?s name was Slow Moe

Slow Moe said to Barcode
?I need water to survive
Will you help me find a river
To help me stay alive??

Barcode said ?Of course I?ll help you ?
But did you see my family go?
Maybe if I find them
They can help you too, Slow Moe?

Moe thought for a moment
Then he opened up his mouth
And said ?I do seem to remember
That the zebras went due South?

?Well, climb up on my back?
Barcode said to little Moe
?If South?s the way they went
Then it?s South that we shall go?

Moe sat on Barcode?s back
As, heading South, they walked
And as they walked
The two friends talked

Barcode told Moe
About Mr O?Tinn
And all about all the things
That had happened to him

?I can see a river!?
Said little Slow Moe
?Oh good? said Barcode
?That?s the way that we shall go?

?Even better? said Moe
?All your family are there?
The excitement was more
Than young Barcode could bear

Barcode ran and he skipped
He galloped and he jumped
And up on his back
Moe bounced and then he bumped

Moe said ?Stop ? be careful
Think for a little while ?
I?m sure that, in the river,
I just saw a crocodile?

Barcode said ?My Mum?s in the river
I?ve got to let her know?
And they ran down to the river bank ?
Barcode and little Moe

?Watch out Mum? shouted Barcode
?There?s a croc in there too?
?Oh Barcode? shouted Mum
?Is that really you??

The crocodile got closer
Into the river Barcode ran
?I?ve got to help my Mum? he thought
?I must do all I can?

Barcode swam in the river
As the croc got closer still
?I can help, I must help?
Barcode said ?And I will?

Barcode swam
As fast as he could
And up on his back
Little Slow Moe stood

Barcode swam to the croc
And said ?Listen to me
Don?t you dare hurt my Mum
Or any of my family?

The crocodile said
?What you don?t seem to know
Is I?m a friendly croc
I just came to say hello?

Barcode said ?You weren?t going
To eat Mum after all??
?Oh no? said the croc
?Oh no, not at all?

Slow Moe said
?I really ought ta
Get down from your back
And into the water?

So Barcode let him
Get down for a swim
Moe stood on the bank
Then he jumped straight in

?Oh water, water!?
He cried with delight
?I?m going to stay here
From morning to night!?

Slow Moe said ?Thank you Barcode
For bringing me here
I?ll stay for ages
Maybe even a year?

Then Barcode noticed
A young zebra ? a girl
The most beautiful zebra
In all of the world

So Barcode decided
To say hello
And when she smiled back
It made his heart glow

?My name is Deborah
How do you do??
She said ?I used
To live at the zoo?

So Deborah told Barcode
All about the zoo
And he told her about the circus
And the race course too

They talked and they talked
Way into the night
Until they both fell asleep
In the silver moonlight

Next morning Barcode said
?Deborah I love you
I?ll never put another
Zebra above you?

Deborah said ?Barcode
I love you too
I just want to spend
My whole life here with you?

Barcode said ?If I promise
To be a zebra all my life
Deborah would you like
To be my zebra wife??

Deborah said ?Oh Barcode
I?ll marry you of course
As long as you remember
That you?re a zebra not a horse?

Barcode went to tell
His happy news to Mum and Dad
They both smiled and said
?Now we?re happy, we?re not sad?

Barcode?s Mum said
?We?re glad to see you back of course
But do you still dream
Of becoming a horse??


Barcode said ?With my family,
My friends and Deborah
I?ll do just fine in my life?..
As a zebra!?

[longie]

I work in radio, where are you? Perhaps I can help?