https://librivox.org/uploads/tests/test_andrewkaake.mp3
Recorded using Audacity on Windows 11. XLR mic (Blue Bluebird) via USB interface (Behringer UMC204HD).
1-Minute Test by andrewkaake [OK]
Welcome Andrew
I reviewed your test sample, and while it sounds good there are some technical changes needed. LibriVox requires audio that is 128kbps constant bit rate MP3, 44.1kHz sample rate, mono, and between 86dB and 92dB, preferably 89-90. Your test audio settings are correct except the volume, which is too low at 83dB. There are also significant plosive sounds on the P's where your breath hits the mic.
Make sure input gain slider in Audacity (upper right with the little mic icon) is well to the right. Then adjust the input gain on your mic so your raw recording has wave forms that peak at about the 0.5 marks in the Audacity window:
If necessary, adjust the volume level before exporting by going to Effects>Amplify and enter an amount.
Reposition your mic so that it is off-center about 45 degrees. Add a pop filter or foam wind screen if necessary.
You can pre-check your audio yourself by downloading the free Checker app: https://cgjennings.ca/projects/checker/
Passed with Warnings is a fail with regard to volume.
Please make a new test recording and post it in a reply to this message. I will come back and review it for you.
I reviewed your test sample, and while it sounds good there are some technical changes needed. LibriVox requires audio that is 128kbps constant bit rate MP3, 44.1kHz sample rate, mono, and between 86dB and 92dB, preferably 89-90. Your test audio settings are correct except the volume, which is too low at 83dB. There are also significant plosive sounds on the P's where your breath hits the mic.
Make sure input gain slider in Audacity (upper right with the little mic icon) is well to the right. Then adjust the input gain on your mic so your raw recording has wave forms that peak at about the 0.5 marks in the Audacity window:
If necessary, adjust the volume level before exporting by going to Effects>Amplify and enter an amount.
Reposition your mic so that it is off-center about 45 degrees. Add a pop filter or foam wind screen if necessary.
You can pre-check your audio yourself by downloading the free Checker app: https://cgjennings.ca/projects/checker/
Passed with Warnings is a fail with regard to volume.
Please make a new test recording and post it in a reply to this message. I will come back and review it for you.
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andrewkaake
- Posts: 3
- Joined: September 3rd, 2024, 12:46 pm
Thanks! Believe it or not, I have a pop filter on it already, and the software sliders are maxed in Audacity and Windows (gain knob on interface is over halfway, not sure how much further I should go because the signal light remains lit even when I'm silent if I increase the gain beyond this point). This is the new recording, amplified and with the mic at 45 degrees off-axis: https://librivox.org/uploads/tests/test_andrewkaake.mp3
Okay, you are good to go.
Happy narrating!
Happy narrating!