Home Voice Over Studio . . . on the cheap!

To learn how to launch your VO career today, watch my free training video at BillDeWeesLive.com.
If you've already watched the training video and are ready to schedule your free discovery call to learn more about my VO Blueprint Program, go to bit.ly/2ZrsrKa

[@jeslynrandall809]

8 years later, and this video is still relevant. Thank you for sharing your knowledge! ❤️

[@TechnologyAndGadgets]

True

[@culturaypasion]

Generous man. Sharing his knowledge. How refreshing.

[@Oneness100]

Go check out Acoustic Fields.. They actually make products for room treatment and they understand the science in room acoustics and what will make a great sounding room for voice. They have lots of videos to watch that cover a wide variety of information and knowledge about room acoustics for a variety of different usages. No, I don't work for Acoustic Fields, but I have checked out their products and found they are superior to other room treatment products and they also give solid advice as to what to use and how to set up a room depending on the room's usage.

[@davidsillars3181]

This is where my home studio journey began. Bill your generous sharing has been totally amazing. Still is! Just got my first audiobook up on Audible and really enjoyed the journey. Thanks for everything you have done and do. You are the dude!

[@StudioNB]

This.... This is what makes KZbin an awesome resource. Thank you, sir, for your contribution to everyone wanting to do this for work!

[@jrdaniels53]

I'm a newbie! - I really appreciate Bill's tips. I also really pay attention to the other comments. I'm just beginning my VO career I'm only 66yo, but I need something to do to finish out the rest of what the Lord has given me. my life! Looking to do Bible, & Bible story narration work. I feel, and have been told by several friends, that I have a great voice, and need to do something with it. So, here we go!

[@DanielOrtegoUSA]

Well, I almost didn't watch this video because it contained the word ‘cheap’ which I've learned to interpret as ‘something for nothing’. Fortunately, I decided to watch it anyway and to my pleasant surprise I was very inspired. Your message was clear, concise and humble and it also provided a perspective I haven't considered until now. Thanks for posting!

[@iplayfhorn]

That's the exact setup I got when I started (MXL 2001 mic, Behrenger mixer, and Lexicon Alpha interface), and it works great. Haven't gotten any work yet, but I sound pretty good, lol.

[@RedRiverProductions]

Any luck on landing some jobs?

[@BL3SSed-Bliss]

@@RedRiverProductions Same curiosity/question I have!

[@joshfordnyc]

How did you hook it all up?

[@KingBiozilla]

Hello everyone. Here are my notes for this video, as well as a few notes of my own. Let me know if I missed anything. Shopping List For Starters: - Padding for the walls to reduce noise (particularly around and under the microphone.) You can use memory foam mattress toppers, comforters, or LOTS of towels. - Good-quality, large-diaphragm studio microphone (NOT A USB MICROPHONE) - Sound mixer (pre-amp) - Digital Audio Sound Interface - Computer/Laptop (if you don't have one already) - Audacity (Recording Software) - Reliable Headphones Practice: - Record Audio Books (Audible/ Amazon Kindle eBooks) Where To Start For Free - fiverr

[@joshfordnyc]

Hi, Great info but do you have a video on how to hook it all up? Josh

[@KingBiozilla]

@@joshfordnyc My channel doesn't have any videos (yet), but I'm sure each item brings a manual for setup. As for the Audacity software, you can search up Audacity recording software on Google, and you should get a program with an icon of sound waves between headphones. For fiverr, I believe membership is free. Signing up should be easy, but I would have a look at the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy just to be safe. Some microphones come with pre-amps, and instructions on how to set everything up. More often than not, pre-amps are sold separately. Once the Microphone is plugged in, you can select it as an audio input in your computer's settings. From there, you can open Audacity and adjust your recordings accordingly. I don't have any recommendations for high-quality microphones, but I do have a personal recommendation for which microphone NOT to get. The microphone I used was called Neewer. It was rather cheap in price, but unfortunately, it was also cheap in quality. I paid about $30-$50 for a microphone that records way too quietly. I would shout into it at the top of my lungs, but when I play back the recording, I sound like I'm several miles away. Please don't get the Neewer microphone. Either I got unlucky, or the microphone's positive reviews didn't know what they were talking about. Either way, I really don't recommend it. For headphones, you can also use in-ear earphones. You just need some kind of tool to help you listen closely to your recordings without outside noises. Speaking of outside noises, what I used to block outside noises during recordings was a bunch of pillows. I leaned some pillows around my microphone and stuck my head in whenever I recorded. Too bad my microphone couldn't hear anything no matter how many adjustments I made. I think that's just about everything. Any other questions?

[@joshfordnyc]

@@KingBiozilla thanks!

[@KingBiozilla]

@@joshfordnyc No problem. 👍

[@Mark-OutWest]

I'd argue that both of these: Sound mixer (pre-amp) and the Digital Audio Sound Interface are the same device if you get a Focusrite or Line 6 Pod Studio UX2 or similar.

[@polish.english.voiceover]

I already have my own acoustic booth and everything but I'm watching this video again and it's still inspiring. Start from where you are and build the VO career step by step. Thanks Bill !

[@stevenharrison3520]

Very good. I was happy to hear I have some of the equipment mentioned. I have no problems with Audacity. One thing I've learned to do is record in mono, cut and past into another track then commanding it to "Make Stereo". The fullness of the voice is increased. Thank you for posting. You're a good speaker. I would have to stop and clear my throat about 10 times throughout that speech.

[@paulaleemicallef8982]

Thank you Bill! I have been an actress and VO artist for many years but have just recently found that I need to build my own studio and further my VO career. You have given me great ideas to start out and I will keep you updated on my progress.

[@rickshockley6538]

Bill, You have saved me tons of time. I just purchased your four hour video seminar..excellent. And the segment on building a studio on a budget is amazing. Thanks for all you're sharing!

[@argyjr]

GREAT advice. Starting to put my first home recording studio together & had NO idea where to start. Thanks for sharing!

[@davidsaunders4439]

Hey Bill - 2 thoughts about a starter recording space: a full clothes closet is just about as acoustically dead as any expensive studio booth. the other thing is to use felt moving blankets to treat a broom closet, etc. you can get a 6-pak of felt blankets for $30 on amazon. My own blanket-lined-broom-closet booth has a noise floor around -55dB...that's really, really good.

[@JoolsVoiceOver]

How do you find out what your noise floor is? Just started reading short stories for fun and have been asked to read a book! I know I would need less noise than I have now but it’s all new to me.

[@Megatwilightwarrior]

@@JoolsVoiceOver Bringing a microphone in with a DAW open is one way, but you can also just clap and listen for the echo to approximate the quietest room you have

[@JoolsVoiceOver]

@@Megatwilightwarrior thanks ☺️

[@mamaluvsherbabes]

Wonderful information...thank you so much, Bill! I subbed! By the way, just wanted to THANK YOU for your GENEROSITY in allowing us to download the information regarding 100 VO questions. I just received my copy and am looking forward to receiving its wealth of information! How kind of you to make this available to us, especially without any financial compensation. I am just beginning to delve into VO and have many questions...I'm sure what you have thoughtfully made available to us (who are mere strangers!) will be extraordinarily helpful! God bless you for your kindness and all the time and effort you put into this project that you have shared, expecting nothing in return. My friend, God will indeed bless you for all you have given. Take good care, Bill. :)

[@rlunel1]

Bill - Always great info. Back in the day I drove many miles to get to a studio to do a 30 second spot. However, times have changed and I will be taking your tips and setting up my studio from home. I'll be up and running soon! Thanks Bill.

[@BlueOceanProShop]

You are down to earth, you shared your experiences and you are honest. That's why I am a subscriber. I do voice overs myself and your video helped. Great advice.

[@MsLibr8r]

Bill I just love you because of your willingness to share the information you've acquired with those of us who want what you have! Thanks for the info. I'm all set up and ready to start doing voiceover work in audiobooks. I needed to know if you're having anymore workshops or classes for the year 2013! I know you're busy and making a living so get back to me at your earliest convenience. Thank you very much.

[@EMELINETHERMIDOR]

Thank you so much for sharing this Bill! I believe your business will grow because of your sharing heart and your willingness to see people progress, although they will become your competitors ;). I am just starting (although I Interpret as well) and your posting gives me the right incentive to not delay because the start-up costs are not as high as I thought they would be. Bless you!!!

[@EsSpada]

I knew you would have a video on this!! You're a reliable source of what I *need* to know about Voice work.

[@jcmeromero]

Thank you!....great clear voice....i found a mic...yesterday for cheap an AKG and this video confirms it....i'm your new student as of this morning!

[@DavidBelfortNews]

Published 3 years ago and still going strong. Thanks Bill.

[@joem.koenen3796]

Thank you Bill... I believe you to be a voice for those of us who wish to create and expand...sharing your experiences helps create a better "class" Of voiceover talents. I am new to this realm...I am grateful for you sharing your knowledge in this industry... many blessings for you doing so...

[@iDreamStudiosTube]

Ohhh man! That was MY first Mic too! Good old MXL 2001P....makes me teary eyed! Great bit of advice indeed....great video!

[@ChuckFresh]

GREAT tips. Well done, Bill. You have approached Hero status!

[@TheVoiceofChief]

I really enjoyed watching your video :) It sounded like you've been teaching this subject for such a long time 'coz you just kept on discussing WITHOUT NOTES! :) You didn't really stop nor pause to recall at which you're at in your discussion. Cool! :)

[@vendingdudes]

looks like he checks an outline or notes at 2:10 when he transitions from the intro

[@JayJay-ki4mi]

Great info bill. I built my booth in a corner of my bedroom about 1mx1m. I have the front bit open so I can sit and record into the booth. I carpeted and tiled the inside walls with the same foam you got. The sound is bloody fantastic. I'd love the space for a sit in room but I have to work with the space I got. I spent a bit more on a mic and got a Rode NT. I built mine before watching this but I'm loving your videos.

[@commonsense369]

Wow, thank you Bill, this is a wonderful video for those of us just starting to research how to get into VO business.

[@Austin4a]

This is fantastic. Thank you for sharing. I'm really looking forward to implementing your ideas to get my voice over recording studio up and running.

[@Singletonsaysvo]

Hi Bill! This was a very informative and cost effective video! I look forward to upgrading my equipment when I get my VO career off the ground! Thanks again for the inspirational message!

[@ScytheMassakur]

Thank you, Bill. This has been so helpful. This is the first step to being like my idol, and I thank you for the advice.

[@mooseydeucy]

Love the Behringer!! Sweetwater is a great source with caring support services. Major Props, Mr. Bill!

[@sunshinewildfire7087]

Bill DeWees, you're an amazing facilitator. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@GeorgeWhittam]

Bill, great video with concise information. I've recommend the Shure PG42USB to many VO's and installed it in a few celeb home studios with great success. A few years ago I would have agreed that USB mics aren't up to snuff, but they really have advanced considerably. It's the ultimate in the K.I.S.S. philosophy. Keep up the good work!

[@dan32dip]

Hi Bill... Great piece. I'm an "Old Pro," who hasn't worked--other than pro bono--for a number of years. With your help and enthusiasm...and other friends in the recording biz...I'm going to see if I've still got the chops. First steps: get the home studio equipped...and this was great info. Thanks much... Dan Dippery

[@savedbyHisLife]

Hey Bill. Thanks so much for your videos! Excellent info! I'm just getting started in the voiceover business. Thanks again for your help and encouragement!

[@BrandanLee]

You are awesome, Bill! Sent this video to some guys getting started. Cheers

[@dannymorales1614]

Hello Bill. Your advice is fabolous. Same deal here, corporate man looking for alternatives. such great insight. thank you so much. so grateful..

[@ronmircab69]

Hello Bill! i'm Ron from the Philippines and i also would love to try doing a voice over thing. Thanks a lot for having a kind heart of sharing all of those experiences and knowledge on how to have a cheap but workable home studio. God bless you!

[@Culexable]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge of the craft, Bill!

[@VKDM8687]

OMG BILL--where are you?!?! I NEED TO MEET YOU IN PERSON!! What a great video--thank you SO much--seriously!

[@PurrViewTVShow]

Great video- thanks Bill, How do you stay cool in the studio without picking up an a/c or fan etc.

[@totallyfrozen]

It’s been 7 years now and there have been new technologies, new products, and some price drops. Can you make a newer version of this topic? Love your channel, BTW

[@invataascultandcartiaudiod6116]

Thank you, Bill, Now I know what combination of equipment I need.I will definetely switch from my USB microphone to this kind of setup.

[@MaskedMan66]

Glad to hear that a starving artist can work with what he's got in order to get food. According to what you say here, I've already got a good enough set-up to get started. And I'll definitely be checking out VoiceOverPlaybook. Thanks as always for your invaluable help!

[@hewrecbizman]

I'm really glad I found this You Tube video because trying to get an audio and video recording business off the ground isn't really going too well where I live. I guess because I still do get an either just audio or video recording job of some kind at least once in a while I'll still want to do that kind of work, but now that I know from this video that doing voice over and ebook recording work is also a big enough thing I feel I'll also want to get into doing that. It makes me wish I would have found this kind of video a long enough time ago to have found that out back then, because I could have really possibly gotten somewhere better income wise by now.

[@AVUltra]

Really great information. Thanks for putting this together. I'm constantly frustrated by people pushing heavy products (which I can understand from a financial standpoint) and appreciate your candidness, experiences and expertise. Greetings from Milwaukee. -S

[@gregdeltorto9029]

Bill, thanks so much for sharing. Great stuff.

[@ChicagoPaul2020]

Because of this video I just threw down on the mic and mixer you recommended, and I have my own audio interface from a while back that I'm sure will suffice (Kontrol something or other). I'm serious about trying to get into the business, and I wanted to thank you for showing some of the startup stuff I can use! Now it's just a matter of finding a quiet place to record and tuning my voice and finding opportunities... hah

[@mariaottavia]

Thank you for your kindness and generosity! Your KZbin channel is very very helpful! Most definitely, I will call upon your services for help.

[@MeridithBinette]

Thanks for the info! I have a home voice over studio, but always need to learn.

[@jahovahjira]

Wow! this was a real blessing.! Thankyou so much for this great video. It helped me see that I am on the right track (no pun intended.) :)

[@9letterstudios]

Hey Bill, I was watching this a reference to get some new equipment now that we got my demo completed. Can you list the models of the items you mentioned in the description? Thank you.

[@BlackLion1290]

Is there another video or a erbsite as to how to set up all of that equipment correctly in relation to a laptop or pc? I would greatly appreciate it

[@elvinlewis4233]

Thank you so much! As luck would have it, I'm a music producer and already have the gear. This appears to be a very legitimate opportunity to expand my enterprise.

[@mikecullen2008]

Hi Bill from North East England, I started on a shoe string budget, in fact the only thing had to pay for was my SE2000 Mic which was £75, I was given a machine to run Pro Tools and the hardware (Digi Design 001 Interface) for nothing, I was aware that It wasn't cheap to buy so I grabbed these with both hands. I'm not a professional though. I found my bedroom to be quite ambient so for the time being I'm using Pro Tool's VST gate as a way of diminishing the ambience, it works fine.

[@BlackLion1290]

Coming back after having kids and wanting to start. I am still taking notes.

[@Sasha0927]

I see you did have some specific knowledge on sound treatment available, lol. Thank you for the advice! I'm just getting started and intend to hoist blankets up in my bedroom somehow (perhaps with some proper acoustic paneling on one of my walls). We'll see what more specifics I can find. I love the way you explain things and have subscribed for more VO learning. :)

[@actnow520]

Bill, this is a great video. Do you have anything to add or updates on equipment since this video is several years old - especially during the current pandemic?

[@DanielLenard]

Bill, My philosophy has always been you work to get good equipment, not the other way around. It worked for you.

[@onelovemanymemories]

A great watch! Thank you Bill.

[@Roman_The_Russian]

this is really good advice. THANK YOU :) i'm looking for ways to start voice over work so this is definitely going to help me with my V.O. and KZbin channel work. thank you :) ALSO you could buy a condenser microphone, instead

[@JammerforJuctice]

thanks so much...just in the process of creating my setup.. Thanks for the very helpful tips!

[@1StaleCracka]

You rock Bill! Thanks!!

[@tomduggan4364]

Hi Bill. You inspired me to look around for some cheap recording gear and I found one of particular note. I went to Sweetwater and I found the Presonus Audio Box Studio Bundle. I set it up and It works great for voiceover work. The price is right too. You get a large diaphragm studio condenser mic, a digital audio interface withj phantom power included, and a pair of headphones. With a mic stand and a pop filter, you can get the whole thing for about $235. I used other people's ideas for creating a sound booth and came up with one that I made from foam mattess toppers and a storage bin that I found for nothing, and it cost me only about $24 for that. Hope this helps. I have read reviews about the setup that I have and some people love it and others hate it. I think that the naysayers are full of it, The whole thing works fine and I use Audacity to record with and the audio results are outstanding. For those out there that want to start out from scratch this is the way to go. Thanks for the inspiration and the encouraging words. Tom Duggan

[@sligon00]

Tom , amazing info , thanks ... are you still doing vo ? :-)

[@bradkovnat6782]

Hi Bill...thank you for your generosity in the great info you shared. The links don't seem to be working though.

[@chickenbooks7244]

You're the best! Helped me a lot and pointed me in the right direction, thank you!

[@conzza96]

Thanks for this video, very informative. Been looking for a video like this. I have a condenser microphone, phantom power pack and leads etc, works fine in my amp but doesn't pick up on my computer, do I need an audio interface?

[@adolfogomez-herrera1348]

Thanks so much. Not only a lot of knowledge but very entertaining.

[@wadebarrett8734]

Hey Bill, thanks for the awesome video. I live in the tropics and can imagine that with acoustic pads or any other soundproofing material, my room will get even hotter. How do you keep your room cool, minus the noise?

[@raoulmorgan656]

Awesome & Thank you so much!!! I can't wait to get started!!!

[@RosePetal17]

So Awesome Bill!!!! Thank You for imparting your great knowledge!!!! :D

[@jay8inches]

Awesome advice. Keep up the great work.

[@Standardchannel01]

Same I have a blue snowball, and it sounds pretty nice.

[@rodsapyta7059]

Bill let me know when you are having a new training I will book a week or a few days off from UPS I am ready to get this show on the road. No more just saying, it's time to start doing.. Thanks brother.

[@greggeller9591]

Hi Bill, Great videos. What about a desk? Do you think a wood or glass surface is better? Would I have to cover either one?

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

@soundgun I really appreciate the info! Technology is certainly moving forward at full steam (and gets cheaper as well)

[@Abbyminifun]

Would be great if you included the equipment in your video description. Thanks for the video.

[@c4r50n1]

I have a large diaphragm usb mic. The audio technica at2020 and it sounds great. There's also a great USB mic called the Yeti and there's the Yeti pro. They're both THX certified.

[@TJMilamFitness]

Hi Bill, awesome content! Just getting started myself. What about a LaCie external drive? I have a 2 TB Dell laptop.

[@MatthiasLenardt]

Thank you! So inspiring! Really good

[@wetlazer]

I have done improv com-erdy and some public speaking as well as doing hypnosis for friends. We have a reading service for the blind in town. You can volunteer to read books. I found that when I tried to read for the audition I 'died'. The woman who set me up to read said I had a good voice, but there was so much to read I was overwhelmed and stumbling over everything. have you heard of anything like that?

[@steprockmedia]

For newer folks, please note the small Behringer Xenyx boards now have USB options. Like a Xenyx 302USB. Well under a hundred dollars.

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

@rlunel1 Ah...those where the days! Considering the price of gas, I'm REALLY glad we get to stay home to record :-)

[@smilesallen]

This was very helpful Bill, thank you so much for your help!

[@TheDavidN]

Getting set up is one thing, but also take into consideration when you are asked by a client or agent about what equipment you have (since they want to be sure they are getting the best quality). If you say, "I'm using Audacity with a USB mic" - regardless of quality - it could be a red flag that says "I am an amateur" right? Whereas if you say "I'm using industry standard equipment" that has a bit more cache when marketing I'd think. Now, could you *stretch* the truth when you tell them that? Or can they tell the difference?

[@Mark-OutWest]

"I'm using industry standard equipment" that's a meaningless phrase to me. YES they can tell the difference if you are using low quality equipment.

[@pmacaleavey]

Great advice, thanks Bill. You're the man

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

@Vsingle23 You are most welcome...and all the best!

[@MMSanchezNY]

A great video Bill, thank you.

[@TheSoleProprietor]

I liked watching this. But I plan to do more in the future than just audio books. I want to record narration, singing and instrumental. Why don't you recommend USB Microphones? Well I guess I'll watch "Should Voice Talent Use a USB MIc" next and find out! I already use Audacity and it is cool for starters!

[@tedryan124]

Love your vids Bill

[@MaryBartnikowski]

Informative and inspirational video thank you! - what microphone are you using in this video?

[@henriettasenkwe12]

I wish I had the necessary equipment to get started 😭 am really getting inspired here.

[@noodleshogun293]

Cool man. Now it's time to sound proof my Closer and buy some equipment. Also do you do anything else other than Audio books. I'd be interested to know.

[@deserontont]

Thanks again Bill - excellent video tutorial - it helps

[@honestrefinement2517]

Can you make an updated video of this? Maybe what to do if you are still wanting to use a closet and a portable sound box? I’m a student full time and I’m trying to start my business on the side so I have little income ( until I start studying your content and make a difference :) ) thank you for all of this content!!

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

You're welcome! Glad you've found my videos helpful. I actually recently made an updated home studio video. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHvEqqSwgLOHn9k

[@j.stephenson6468]

Thanks for all of your valuable information!

[@ytwetethx]

Bill, I really enjoy your channel. I find it very helpful. I was wondering I own a rode microphone it’s an NT1 - a. Will that’s suffice to start with?

[@Hamptainment]

hey thanks for this info, Im just getting started and you give good advice

[@roanokejoe]

Great video! Have you updated it since 2012?