Mystery mic sounds

Jenna Sharpe · **Voice Talent** Joined: 19 Sep 2007 Posts: 46

I'd really appreciate some advice on what exactly is going on with this clip I recorded.

I'm getting a strange sound on the words 'head' and 'smooth' (no it isn't a porn advert honest!). As the rest of my read is very very clear it is really noticeable to me

What exactly is causing this? Me, my mic, my recording environment and how can I avoid this happening again? I do have a pop screen and shock mount and record on a SE gemini.

Melba Sibrel · Posted: Tue Apr 15, 2008, 22:17 (GMT) Post subject:

I'm not an expert at anatomy, but I have an idea of what it might be because I sometimes have some similar issues.

It sounds like it's from within you. Certain hard sound combinations cause a thump or click that will get picked up on mic. If I had to guess (in very unscientific terms), I'd say it may be how you're closing off the throat where it meets the base of the sinus with the back of your tongue, pushing air back up where it hits the sinus cavity wall. One thing you can do is work on opening up your breathing -- basic singing lessons actually help a great deal with breathing issues.

If you still have some unwanted sinus sounds, go slightly off the axis on potentially difficult sounds to keep it from hitting too hard. Sometimes you can isolate those specific sounds in edit and cut amplification in half to minimize the hit as well.

Jenna Sharpe · **Voice Talent** Joined: 19 Sep 2007 Posts: 46

That was very well explained and makes sense as I do sometimes have sinus problems. Whenever I get ill my throat and sinuses are always the first to get hit! Thanks Melba

Robert Jadah · **Voice Talent** Joined: 17 Jun 2005 Posts: 2627

Call Phyllis K. Day, Jenna.
She's part of this forum, and she's one of us.

Do a SEARCH function...read the threads...and get a hold of her. You won't be sorry.

VoiceCoach On!

Larry Farina · **Voice Talent** Joined: 15 Jan 2005 Posts: 2

Jenna, if I may offer my input I think Melba is on target. Dry throat can cause that sound. Perhaps a little drink of water?[/quote]