The Voice Act

Internet Radio Expansion: I'm In!

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 05:24:00 +0000

Ok, I have gotten involved with the programming of a few Internet radio stations for a friend of mine. My God, are we creating a conglomerate? Hey, if terrestrial radio can do it, why shouldn't we?

(You can click on the logos to visit the stations)

Are You Ready to Start an Internet Radio Station?

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 09:07:00 +0000

Has it really been so long since my last posting? Oh, how time flies. I have been, as always, keeping a number of projects going. My latest adventure, Internet radio. Like most these days, I tinkered around with Pandora and the others, but always felt there was something missing. Maybe it's the old radio guy in me, but I longed for more control and really wanted to dive back into programming. Well, after some intense research, I made my move.

There is a lot of information on the Internet, forums, YouTube and such, but I soon realized that most of the information is outdated. Many of the things people were using have gone up in one big giant Internet poof. That was a bit frustrating, but I finally settled on a clear path for my personal preferences. I found a company called Radionomy. Sure, there has been acquisitions involved, things on hold, and a few disgruntled users. But isn't that the case with everything these days? Before you start throwing spears at me, or suggesting different ideas, let me just say that Radionomy is the right choice for me at the moment.

You can follow the link to learn all about Radionomy, but here's the basics. They provide the platform, over 80,000 songs and they handle the music licensing. You handle the station creation, the music selection, the programming parameters, and the scheduling. The only equipment you need is a computer and some audio gear, such as microphones and audio recording software, if you choose to handle your own vocal imaging. If you want to broadcast live, then you'll need a program like Sam Broadcaster and a server connection.

So far, in terms of audio equipment, I am using a DBX 286 Compressor, an M-Audio Fast-Track Ultra, a Sure SM7B and an AKG Perception 220. For the audio recording, I use Adobe Audition. That's what fuels Shelton Broadcasting. I have actually been involved with a couple of Internet radio projects, which I will feature in a later post.

I'm curious, have you thought about Internet radio? Have any experience with anything outside of traditional "up and down the dial" radio? What's your favorite music outlet?

Time for Another Look At Microphones

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:33:00 +0000

It has been some time, since I scanned the web concerning microphones. In my own studio, I have my favorites. However, even surprising to me, one of my favorites can be found at a very low cost. As with every piece of equipment out there, opinions will always remain subjective.

In the world of voice-overs, there are a few choices that are less subjective than others. I think most would agree, if finances are no issue, two safe bets would be: (Click on links to learn more)

Sennheiser MKH 416

Neumann TLM 103

And of course, there's one of my personal favorites.

Sure SM7B

I recently moved into a new home studio setting, one that provides a little more working room. I found one of my first microphones, the AKG Perception 220, that had been tucked away in a closet. Maybe for sentimental reasons, I decided to give it another whirl. Still sounds good, still remains one of my favorite budget microphones and will now remain outside of the closet.

AKG Perception 220

Happy Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Sun, 08 May 2011 16:34:00 +0000

Aflac dumps duck voice actor for tasteless tweets

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 03:45:00 +0000

Columbus, Georgia

Aflac Inc. said Monday it has fired Gilbert Gottfried, the abrasive voice of the insurer's quacking duck in the U.S., after the comedian posted a string of mocking jokes about the earthquake and tsunami in Japan on Twitter over the weekend.

The tasteless tweets are particularly problematic for Aflac because it does 75 percent of its business in Japan. One in four homes in Japan buys health insurance from Aflac. The insurer's CEO, Daniel Amos, flew to Japan on Sunday to show support for the company's employees and agents.

Aflac said in a statement Monday that Gottfried's jokes do not represent the feelings of the company, which previously announced it would donate 100 million yen ($1.2 million) to the International Red Cross to help with disaster assistance.

"There is no place for anything but compassion and concern during these difficult times," Chief Marketing Officer Michael Zuna said.

The tweets in question were removed from Gottfried's Twitter feed Monday after Aflac announced it would stop working with the comedian.

Source

Teaching An Old Dog New Tricks : Mac Conversion

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:31:00 +0000

For as long as I can remember, I have been a PC fan. However, for the greater portion of that time, I only used a computer for typical, day-to-day applications.

Along the way, during my radio career, computers started to make their appearance. Usually, they were specially put together for the station's intended use.

Once I began setting-up my home voice-over studio, I not only noticed the debates over microphones, recording software and related items, but of the computer platform as well. Of course while getting started, I planned on using every PC I had on hand in some fashion to keep additional costs down. That was, until I purchased:

I love the M-Audio Fast Track Ultra, except for the driver conflicts in Windows. I uninstalled, re-installed and everything in between. However, I continued to experience the "blue screen of death" once in awhile. I cannot place sole blame on either the M-Audio or PC, but the two do not form the best union when it comes to drivers. Add a heavy Adobe Audition session in and get ready.

So, I made the switch to Mac. So far, so good! Have you experienced any issues with either PC or Mac? I am always interested in hearing your experiences.

Adobe Audition For Mac

A Peek At Ted Williams and Kraft Mac & Cheese Superbowl Commercial VO

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 21:52:00 +0000

'Golden-Voiced' Homeless Man Lands Radio Spot

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 07:45:00 +0000

COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Internet video of a homeless man showing off his self-described "God-given gift of a great voice" has landed him a spot on a local radio show.

A reporter from the Columbus Dispatch came across Ted Williams while Williams was panhandling near Interstate 71 recently. Williams was carrying a sign explaining he was a former radio announcer who had fallen on hard times.

"Any help will be gratefully appreciated," the sign said.

A roadside interview on YouTube demonstrates the homeless man isn't exaggerating. He's as smooth as any announcer heard on radio or television.

Source and Video

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Holiday Wishes

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 18:31:00 +0000

Royalty Free Music

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:55:00 +0000

A viewer wrote asking about royalty free music. There are so many places on the Internet, yet so many of them are not really that great. I have two that I use almost exclusively:

Audio Jungle

The Beat Suite

Best Thanksgiving Holiday Wishes

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 23:19:00 +0000

Have a great Thanksgiving and, give the voice a rest, if you can!

-JC

Finding Voice-Over Work Hidden Gems

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 05:02:00 +0000

If you are like me, you are probably always thinking of that next "big time" voice track, maybe a McDonald's commercial, or something. Those are great, but what about in between, or just to make some steady extra money? I have an idea and best of all, it is one many do not think of, so competition (if any) is minimal.

Small town radio stations are gems. A few towns even have a TV or cable station. In one that I often help, the program director is also the news director, production director, music director, engineer, DJ, promotions director and works for the local newspaper (which owns the radio station). He is so busy, the sales manager is more than happy to send me a handful of scripts, knowing he will get them back quickly. They also allow me to fully produce them, as it's one less think they have to worry about.

Just an idea...

Following A Review Of The Mail Bag

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 07:47:00 +0000

After reviewing a few of my latest emails, actually more than a few, those writing generally have some of the basic fundamental questions about the voice-over industry. Any type of voice-over related search will produce volumes and volumes of information. While information is great and homework is vital, the amount of information available can become confusing. What is worse, is that not all of the information being circulated is even accurate.

I will never profess to know everything there is to know, as I find myself learning new things every day. However, I can honestly share information from my own experience (including mistakes) and many of the lessons that I have learned along the way. I have put together a basic overview of the voice-over industry, including useful links that have worked for me, which I would like to share. It is my effort to, at the very least, provide you with a basic starting point.

Voice-Over Industry Overview

As always, I always welcome your questions and feedback. Keep looking for additional guides to come, including software and equipment overviews.

Basic Editing With Adobe Audition 3.0

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 17:57:00 +0000

I use Adobe Audition 3.0 as my primary audio voice-over recording and editing software. I am not alone in considering Adobe to be my first choice, as you can see. Here, Terry Daniel shares some basic editing tips.
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Home Recording and Voice-Over Studio Design Basics

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 23:43:00 +0000

I am always asked about the basics of how to set up a home voice-over recording studio. Well, while it is relatively easy and does not require a huge amount of money, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Choosing the right home recording equipment and software is subjective and largely depends on your intended use. For space-saving purposes, I have put together an article, the first in a continuing series, which I hope will shed some light on some of the questions you may have. While I am not fully aware of your particular situation, I can share some perspective from my own little corner of the voice-over world. I invite you to take a look and I welcome your commments, questions and feedback.

Home Voice-Over and Recording Studio Basics

For Voice Over Talent, Finding Voice Over Work

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:13:00 +0000

One of the top questions an aspiring voice over talent usually asks, whenever I happen across one in person or by email is, "where do I find voice over work?" The follow-up questions often surround the use of social media sites, such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Myspace, voice over blogs, etc. Once I cover the most important basics with them (voice over training, having a quiet place to record, high-quality voice over demo), then we may spend a little time discussing social media websites. Do they work? Yes. But, before running to your computer to fire off a Twitter tweet to find a job, I would like to share a tip from Philip Banks one of the top international voice over artists.

Once you have this employment search tip burned into your brain, a tip I have to remember myself, I would recommend you take a look at Voices.com. You can set-up a free profile, post your voice over demos. Once you have a quality profile and voice over demo together, you can become a paid, monthly member. They give you a choice of payment options. It is my top tool in finding voice over work, waking up to new emails and voice over job postings requesting auditions each day. Voices.com can even handle the payment method using SurePay, directly through their website. Once you have submitted your auditions, then, I would say go ahead and fire off that Twitter tweet.

Audio Recording Software Reviews - The Winner?

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 20:19:00 +0000

As a former radio guy, I have been familiar with Adobe Audition - all the way back to the Cool Edit Pro days. So, the familiarity aspect has kept Adobe Audition close to my heart. However, in all fairness and in knowing that new developments are always on the horizon, I decided to put others to the test. Old dogs, new tricks? And with most offering free 30-day trials, why not?

Tests
Adobe Audition 3.0 vs.

Audacity
Adobe Soundbooth
Sony SoundForge

My opinions (subjective for most, in matters such as these)

Audacity - Ok for simply recording dry-voice tracks. Effects far too limited for my tastes.
Adobe Soundbooth - same as above.
Sony SoundForge - I liked the user-friendlyness, clean sound-editing, a notch better than the above, but still far too limited for my tastes.

The winner: Adobe Audition 3.0! Perhaps, I am just an old dog, maybe even a little biased. Based on my needs, (imaging, effects, bells, whistles), it is a perfect fit.

Note:

If you are just beginning, especially in the voice-over field and auditioning from home, sending over voice tracks to an outside studio, producer, etc., Audacity and Sony SoundForge are fine. In these cases, the goal is a dry, flat, non-processed voice track. Leave the bells and whistles to the studio producer.

Home Studio Up and Running

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 03:16:00 +0000

Well, it was quite a project - mainly, because I kept changing things around (the sometimes obsessive habits of a perfectionist), but the home studio is functioning perfectly. I did end up spending a little more than I had originally planned, but have maintained the combination of quality and simplicity. The one item that I decided to pass on was a mixer. Turns out, I really do not need one. Adobe audition takes care of thing nicely without.

Oh, and yes, that is a leopard blanket!

My Home Recording Studio Equipment Choices

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:17:00 +0000

Well, I decided to pull the trigger and order the necessary items to build a home recording studio. It has been interesting researching the ideas, product reviews, opinions and stages of development for others that have chosen the same path. When it comes to studio equipment, no two are exactly alike and so many decisions are subjective (i.e. microphones, effects equipment, audio interfaces, computers, recording software).

So, for my little corner of the world, to begin, my audio chain will go something like this.

Several Microphones (including my favorite, the Sure SM7B)
Several Pop Filters
DBX 286A Channel Strip (microphone pre-amp and compressor)
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra
Dedicated PC w/ External Hard Drive
Adobe Audition 3.0

Once things are set-up, I am sure I will have some follow-up thoughts. I am always interested in hearing about other audio chains, studio gear choices, etc. So, what is yours?

Welcome To The Voice Act

noreply@blogger.com (J.C. Shelton) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 05:47:00 +0000

So, you may ask, "who is this guy?" It is a fair question. I am a freelance writer, but also a voice actor. My inspiration for creating a voice acting blog only came recently, following my decision to build a studio at home. A quick search on the internet shows just how much information is floating around in cyberspace, some helpful and some not completely accurate. It is not my desire to complicate things further, but simply share from my own personal experiences.

Long before freelance writing and a recent return to voice acting, there was radio. My career highlights included on-air stops in Austin and Houston, both in Texas, as well as Las Vegas, Nevada. My introduction to voice acting first came in the radio station production room, followed by calls from outside studios. Of course, there is a huge difference in radio station production and studio voice acting. Some choose a specific genre like radio station imaging, while others choose commercial voice over or narration. Some of us choose to participate in all, but learn to keep the differences in mind.

In the posts to follow, I will continue to share my experiences in radio stations, studios and now, my work on home studio development. I welcome your comments and questions as well.