Audacity Overview with Keith Alexander and My Own Voice-Over Setup

by Sean Setters

In this video, Keith Alexander gives us a quick overview of Audacity, a free audio editing program that's amazingly capable. I've been using Audacity for several years and it's been my go-to choice for quick audio editing (I used it yesteray, in fact).

Speaking of audio, I've recently pieced together a studio audio recording kit that's been working very well for voice-over/narration work. Here are the components:

• Senal SCM-660 Large-Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
• Pearstone PM Series XLR M to XLR F Professional Microphone Cable - 1.5'
• Marantz Professional Sound Shield Live (recently discontinued, but the Auray RF-CM-S Reflection Filter is very similar)
• Auray RFMS-580 Reflection Filter Tripod Mic Stand
• Tascam DR-40 4-Channel / 4-Track Portable Audio Recorder (the newest model is th DR-40X)
• Pop Filter with Gooseneck and Clamp
• Studio Headphones
• Super Clamp, Umbrella Swivel & Hot Shoe to 1/4"-20 Male Post Adapter (for mounting Tascam DR-40 to mic stand)

If you don't need the vesatility of the Senal SCM-660's multi-pattern [selectable] pickup, you can save a little money by getting the Senal SCM-600 instead.

So far, using the gear above (and Audacity) I've recorded several audio books or my 19 month-old daughter and an IVR (Interactive Voice Response) phone tree for a local company and all have been very pleased by the sound quality produced (although my daughter probably isn't the most discerning listener).