Muuuh

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Sound Recordings: Outdoors and Indoors

My primary goal is to avoid depending on sound and music provided by third parties for my videos. Therefore, we must prioritize the creation of high-quality sound recordings, voiceovers, and music myself. This article describes the various setups I use in the field and at my desk.

Last changed on 2024-03-29

Available Gear

Over the years, I accumulated an impressive collection of gear for sound recordings.

Outdoors

To streamline video editing, we primarily capture all in-field sound directly in the camera using the Rode NTG-2 shotgun microphone connected to the camera via the Zoom F3. On occasions, stereo in-field sound is recorded by connecting both the Rode NTG-2 and Rode NTG-3 microphones to the camera via the Zoom F3. The varying sound levels of the NTG-2 and NTG-3 are then balanced within the Zoom F3.

For in-field streaming, we initially used iPhone earplugs with a microphone but have since switched to the DJI Mic. This change was prompted by the improved sound quality and the added flexibility in camera setup, as we no longer need to be constrained by the length of the earplug cable.

Outdoor recording presents its own set of challenges. There is virtually no corner on Montreal Island where you won't hear the constant roar of cars on one of the highways, resulting in a persistent background noise that must be addressed. Furthermore, when you stumble upon something interesting to record, you can count on having nearby photographers who are shooting in high-speed burst mode: click, click, click... try to eliminate these clicks from the recording!

Indoors

For voice over recordings in DaVinci Resolve, we use Shure SM7B connected via CL-1 to Scarlett 2i2 which serves as pre-amp and provider of phantom current. Scarlett 2i2 is connected to iMac.

After experimenting with different combinations of microphones and audio interfaces, I reached my breaking point and acquired the Shure SM7B, a CL-1 (CloudLifter), and a Focusrite 2i2 for voice-over recordings. I had encountered numerous issues in the past, such as high noise levels and inconsistency in recordings, which necessitated extensive post-production editing. The solution I ultimately settled on ensures consistent, high-quality recordings without the need for extensive sound editing."

For creating background sounds, I use a keyboard connected via USB to the desktop and Garageband as my audio interface. I'm looking forward to acquiring Logic Pro in the near future for better instrument emulations.