Izotope VEA As A Voice Enhancement Tool For Podcasters

[@seekfactsnotfiction9056]

Which software would you recommend for transforming sound quality to professional without spending too much since I am not a content creator, but I love to create some family content which I try to narrate stories and make the audio in a studio like sound proof recording voiceovers

[@jesse.mccune]

There are a few routes here. If you are using a DAW (audio editing program) I'd probably go with Supertone Clear. If you're looking for something that is more of an all-in-one type app, you could look into Descript or Adobe Podcast, which has an AI powered audio cleaner. These options will have a lower learning curve than a DAW, but a DAW will give you more flexibility in the long term.

[@Jackson-eh3gv]

Have you tried VEA from iZotope? It works great, simple operation, and the best part? It’s only $29

[@Gongtopia]

VEA really seems to be aimed at the noob or casual user who makes KZbin type videos. I agree that the lack of de-reverb is a curious choice. Most bedrooms, kitchens, or offices have serious reverb problems. For a few dollars more there are much better software choices out there.

[@jesse.mccune]

It really is aimed at that demographic, but how many of those users will be using a DAW these days? In Part 2 of my VEA review I provide some insights into what Izotope was thinking when they developed the plugin and it makes a little more sense, but I still feel they missed pretty badly with this plugin.

[@TopTierAudio]

On your voice I like the shape between 30 and 40%

[@jesse.mccune]

Thanks for the insights. It’s always tough for me to gauge on my own voice, especially when I’m demoing something live. To me, Shape is the only element in this plugin that is useful. The noise reduction is average. The lack of a loudness meter makes Boost a little difficult to dial in, especially for the target audience who could use that guidance. And then no reverb reduction. Izotope could make some extremely powerful plugins for content creators, podcasters, and podcast editors…if they would take the time to find out what we really need. And if they’re willing to accept that such a tool could eat away at some of their RX sales. The reality is that I’d be more likely to buy a plugin with great noise and reverb reduction, mouth de-click and Shape than an update to RX. If they could add in a smart one-dial compressor with gain riding I’d easily pay $199 if it does those things well in one plugin.

[@TopTierAudio]

@@jesse.mccune Totallu understand that.

[@TopTierAudio]

@@jesse.mccune The thing I’m not super happy about with Shape and the similar features in other plugins is the lack of ability to define the target. Most of the tools I’ve tried are a bit dark or dull (or muddy) to my ears and I find I like to take out another 1/2 to 1 dB between 150 and 250 Hz.