1-Minute Test [OK]

All languages: post your test recording here. Help check audio files.
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maritimehumore
Posts: 7
Joined: June 18th, 2022, 10:13 pm

Post by maritimehumore »

https://librivox.org/uploads/tests/test_maritimehumore.mp3

Ran through the checker and passed with warning-- volume dB too low by 2 units. But still trying if this one can get the OK! Some specs below.

Software used: Audacity
OS: Windows
Mic type: Analog (AT2020 hooked to a Behringer interface)
Greetings from Mars. 🌌
sjmarky
Posts: 4798
Joined: August 28th, 2006, 8:47 pm
Location: Sacto CA
Contact:

Post by sjmarky »

Welcome Mars

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 volume is too low at 84.5db. There is also audible plosive sounds on the P's, and too much background noise. It sounds mechanical, like a PC fan. Your mic and interface would not create that much noise.

Make sure the the 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:
Image

If necessary, adjust the volume level before exporting by going to Effects>Amplify.

Reposition your mic so that it is off-center about 45 degrees. Add a pop filter or foam wind screen if necessary.

Try to isolate your mic from the noise, such as computer fan. If that isn’t entirely successful, use Audacity’s Noise Removal filter to reduce the background noise about 10db. Noise removal instructions are available here: https://wiki.librivox.org/index.php?title=Noise_Cleaning. A video tutorial on Audacity noise removal is available here: https://youtu.be/rvhqw7zBmEo

You can pre-check your audio yourself with Checker.
Passed with Warnings is a fail with regard to volume.
Go to Validation>Choose Validation Methods and check Background Noise. Be sure to leave 5 seconds blank at the end of your recording.

Please make a new test recording and post it in a reply to this message. I will come back and review it for you.
"Bringing you yesterday's tomorrow...today!"

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maritimehumore
Posts: 7
Joined: June 18th, 2022, 10:13 pm

Post by maritimehumore »

https://librivox.org/uploads/tests/test_maritimehumore2_cleaned.mp3

Hi there, here's my second try! Fully passed the checker this time, featuring less plosives and background noise.

Thanks for the tip on the 10db noise reduction and moving the mic off-center, that really helped smooth out the audio. Also switched from a foam wind screen to a pop filter, not sure if it helped here but thought I'd give it a quick mention.

Looking forward to feedback :)
Greetings from Mars. 🌌
sjmarky
Posts: 4798
Joined: August 28th, 2006, 8:47 pm
Location: Sacto CA
Contact:

Post by sjmarky »

Okay Mars, you are good to go.

Happy narrating!
"Bringing you yesterday's tomorrow...today!"

My website
My Librivox reader page
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