Adding An External Mic Preamp To A Voice-Over Equipment Chain
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- čas přidán 21. 03. 2023
- A lot happens to a voice recording audio signal, from when you record a voice track to when it finally gets to the listener's ears. A conventional voice-over recording system usually includes an XLR microphone in an interface with clean preamps. It's then connected to a computer via USB or some digital connection. Some voice-over equipment configurations may include an additional external preamp before the audio interface, bypassing the internal, clean preamp in the interface. This configuration might be used because the external preamp can offer lower noise, lower distortion, and a cleaner sound, giving you more detail in our voice-over recording. In this video, I illustrate the difference in sound between using a Focusrite 2i2 independently and using an external preamp, the Cranborne Audio, Camden EC1.
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The following links are links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliates include the following: Sweetwater
Cranborne Audio Camden EC1 Preamp sweetwater.sjv.io/oqRKqY
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 sweetwater.sjv.io/B0E304
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 sweetwater.sjv.io/zNgKN7
Universal Audio Apollo X6 sweetwater.sjv.io/WqXeqn
Neumann TLM 103 sweetwater.sjv.io/0ZQ6ZL
About Lenny B
Lenny B is a professional voice-over audio engineer and producer, currently living in Southern California. He produces national (TV and Radio) jingles and has experienced FM Radio success with original music (airplay). In addition, he is an experienced radio imaging producer and morning show air talent who has been heard on numerous major market commercial radio stations worldwide. Lenny most recently worked as creative director and executive producer for a cluster of commercial FM radio stations before leaving his radio career to focus on his own brand. Thousands of voice-over artists worldwide trust Lenny to improve their quality, effectiveness, and presentation. - Jak na to + styl
Lenny is the best! He built a voice over effect stack for me and it sounds incredible. I am more confident now when I record. I can focus on the "performance" and not the sound quality. It really has made me a better VO talent. Take advantage of his free evaluation. You won't be sorry.
Thanks John. Yes, you are indeed a member of the Custom Preset Club! Thanks for the endorsement 👍
Very informative and well explained Lenny B! Thanks for giving our Camden EC1 a spin!
It is a ABSOLUTLY MUST. Drops the input levels for 1 unit. I use 4 - Behringer Composer - Behringer Ultra Gain pro - Yamaha MG10xu - ( cloud lifter ) SM7b 7 years strong so far.
This lowers noise for a clean end use output. All from Ebay.
Informative as always, Lenny!
Hey! Welcome back! Happy to see new content.
Lots more coming soon.
This was a very helpful and informative video, Lenny. Thanks for the great content as always.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hey. I found your vidoe because of the Camden EC1. Just wanted to say, excellent job at discussing this topic for the uninitiated.
Absolutely digging every aspect of your videos Lenny and I'm sharing them with my coworkers. I work in govt production facility and am transitioning over to much more v/o work, particularly from home. Not being technically trained in it but being told i have "the voice" (my training was in script writing and videography) your videos are like going back to school. I could hear the difference pretty quickly with the Scarlett versus Camden (years of singing I guess). Definitely different sounds. Both pleasing I guess depending on what one wants. But the Camden definitely gives much more presence to the voice. I've got the 3rd Gen Scarlett and I love what it does. But hearing that side by side and knowing that I eventually want to get much more serious about the v/o work.. got me looking around. Kudos to you for all the knowledge you're sharing. It's invaluable. You've made a subscriber out of me!
Hearing this makes me so happy and inspires me to do more. Follow your dreams! I'll do everything I can to share my experience and help you get there.
I swear Lenny deserves to hit 100k subs! Such a great educator!
That's the goal Matt! Thanks for taking the time to pump me up!
wonderful stuff. I am a Bamboo Flute player, doing it professionally. I wanted to upgrade my raw recorded quality. I use SM58 with UAD apollo twin. Your video is quite helpful in making me see how an external mic pre can help. I have tried to saturate base flutes using some analog saturators, and I can instantly see the difference too. I will checkout other videos on your channel.
welcome back ☺️
Thanks. Now that the marketing course is complete, there will be lots more video content coming soon. I appreciate you Faizan!!
@@HeyLennyB Thank you sir☺️
Best review ever
Thank you.
There's a difference for sure. The Cranborne sounds more open and wider than the Focusrite that sounds more sibilant. I would have loved that you've included the Apollo's preamp on this comparison cause I'm sure it would have found it's place in the middle of those two sound quality wise. Now there's a new kid in audio town called Neumann MT48 and I've heard from another CZcamsr's review that it sounds much better than the Apollo. My guess is, UAD is working over something to compete, cause they are not definitely the king of Desktop interfaces anymore. Thanks for your review, keep the good job.
Hi Lenny!! Thank you for presenting us with one more of your helpful videos, that makes all the difference in the voice over world. One question for you: does the Apollo twin x accept external preamps ? I think so because it says Line/mic1 or Line/mic2. A big hello to to you, from the other side of Altlantic ocean.
Hey Pedro. Thank you for following along and I appreciate you being part of the "Custom Preset Club!" The answer to your question is yes. The Apollo Twin X does have two line in jacks. You just need to make sure that you select "Line" on your Apollo console software for the channel you're using. PS I love your underwater Scuba photos on Instagram! 👍
Hi Lenny great video and explanation with clear instructions on bypassing the internal preamp of the interface. I am getting mixed info on using my Warm 73eq with my SSL 2 even with selecting Line for both , what's your advice. Great to see you building your business.
Hi Howard. The Warm 73EQ can definitely add a flavor option to your VO. Use the "line in" on your SSL and then (red) gain knob and output on your W73 to arrive at the sound you want.
Quality video from quality educator. Would have made the point stronger if you had compared interface preamp v Cranborne preamp + line level one using the SAME interface (eg 4i4). Keep putting content out there.
Hi Lenny. I always love watching, listening, and learning from your videos. Thank you for that. I was curious if you have any experience with the Rodecaster Pro 2? It seems to have really good preamps. It does have Aphex processing, but it seems like there are better plugin processing options working in a DAW.
Hey Beards and Banjos. I owned a Rodecaster Pro 1. I currently have have a Rodecaster Pro 2 and I've run it through it's paces. It's awesome for recording multiple people at once. It's a wonderful, mobile piece of gear with lots of features. I lend my out to friends all the time and I'll never get rid of it (unless I replace it with a Rodecaster Pro 3). However, if I'm looking for the absolute best quality for voice-over recording, it's not my first choice. I don't think the effects give me enough control, but I'm spoiled with that because I love the details that plugins offer. I'll end with this. Can you get a great sounding recording for Voice-Over with the Rodecaster Pro 2? YES. I have several clients that record on them and are experiencing success. That's my opinion. Thanks for commenting and watching the channel!!!
I believe the original Scarlett 2i2 (gen 1) had a selector on the front to choose if its line or mic level.
That's the 2i2 I'm using.
Lenny: I'm glad I found you here on CZcams. This was the most helpful video I've seen on introducing a preamp to the vocal chain. Where did you buy the wind screen for your TLM 103. I'm using a pop filter for mine, but I like how the wind screen sounds. Thanks a million.
Hey Gregg, It looks like the windscreen you see in the video (Auray WCF-UB440 Foam Windscreen for Large Diaphragm Condenser Mics) is not longer available on Amazon. However, I'm sure you can find one that is similar. It may just take some trial and error before discovering one that fits to your liking. Thanks for watching.
@@HeyLennyB Thanks, Lenny. I found one on Amazon advertised for the TLM 103. Let's see if it works. Also, thanks for highlighting the extraneous sound in the Portuguese voice over that sounded like crackling. I've had similar issues. I believe I'm not using my Golden Age Project Pre 73 preamp correctly. I'm going to follow your tips to see if I should either keep it in my vocal chain or just use my Focusrite Clarett + 2 Pre by itself.
hello! Could you recommend a software to be able to use with a zoom call, google meets, etc. and that the client can listen to what I reproduce from the Reaper?
I see. A preamp is to process the sound from the mic before feeding it to the amplifier. In 2024, we may simply use Rodecaster Pro II.
Hi lenny, you sound great as always, why did you go back to the TLM103?
I change mics constantly. However, I think I lean toward the TLM 103 the most. It's just comfortable for me.
Hello Lenny, your videos help me a lot, thanks to you and the magic of CZcams with the subtitle translated from English to Spanish I can receive great essential knowledge to reinforce my learning. Although I do not speak English, I rely on the translator to write these letters for you and I am very grateful that you share your knowledge with all of us. Today I learned that I shouldn't use my 3rd Generation Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 to convert my analogue to digital processing because the interface's preamps are acting on my audio chain, this is something I didn't know and it helps me to achieve a more professional sound. I currently use the following audio chain. ART Tube MP Project Series Preamp. SCL2 Stereo Compressor Limiter/Gate Expander from ART. The entire Audio chain was Digitized through my Scarlett 2i2. What would you advise me to improve? Thanks in advance.
I need to hear your raw, unprocessed example sound before I can make any improvement suggestions. Please fill out the form and follow the instructions to submit an audio example here www.lennyb.com/get-your-voice-processed-submission-form
Lenny is a first rate engineer and I was very impressed with the processing chain he developed for me. Especially when it came to applying EQ with his trained ears. Looking forward to getting his marketing course.
This review of the Cranborne Audio Camden EC1 peaked my interest. From the other reviews I've seen I'm convinced that the headphone amp would be a must have for monitoring. Also considering the Seventh Circle J99.
Thanks Lenny!
Great Video! can i use same time stereo tools + cloudlifter with electrovoice re 20 mic and DBX 286s ? thanks
Hi @EllinikosFM, Yes, you can. However, I suggest you get an external audio interface. You an find some that I suggest here www.lennyb.com/equipment#section-1680231919414
Thanks for the video! I cant find any informations about the measurments of the Cranborne Audio Camden EC1, because when i go with this one i want to custom build a 19rack mount for the unit, is it 1u or 2?
The Camden EC1 is a 1/2 space rack at 1U. I hope this helps. You can find more info here: www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/CamdenEC1--cranborne-audio-camden-ec1-microphone-preamp-and-headphone-mixer
@@HeyLennyB hey thanks but im more interested in the rack version after i found out theres one (EC2)
Very informative, Lenny. However, what is the point of adding the Camden EC1 if you already have UAD Apollo x6? Is it a significant preamp upgrade?
Hello. It is significant if the microphone used needs more gain (dynamic and ribbon mics especially). Different microphones and preamp combinations offer different sounds. It's true the result is often imperceptible to the untrained ear. However, it becomes more noticeable when stacking (multitracking) audio. I didn't really understand until I was fortunate enough to own a few different external preamps and tried them with different mic combinations. A comparable analogy might be playing your favorite song on two different car stereos. Both can be loud, sound good and get you pumped on the way to your destination. Yet, they each sound a different. It's like that. I hope that helps.
@@HeyLennyB Got it. Thank you very much, Lenny.
Hello, I want to congratulate you for this video. I definitely want to buy this pre amp. I am a voice over artist, and currently have an id4 audience and was thinking of buying a new sound card. What would you recommend me? I would like one that has two inputs and can work with the external pre amp. Thank you so much!
Hi, @diegochak7560. I'll try my best to recommend you a good choice. Can you tell me what you need that the ID4 doesn't offer you now? Thanks
@@HeyLennyB Thanks for answering me! Every time I plug the sound card into my macbook pro, I have to set the headphone volume again, I don't like it and I wanted to have a sound card that has two mic inputs. In case I ever have two mics, or one input doesn't work, have a backup. The other reason was to see if I could have a better sound with something higher, but with the external preamp I think I'll do it. Thank you!
The ID4 is a sound card with two mic inputs. I'm not sure I understand. The ID4 should have everything necessary to sound great. What is the "sound card" you are describing, if it isn't the ID4?
This is really awesome! I could definitely hear and appreciate the difference right away...it is not dissimilar to the difference in going from my DBX286s preamp to the SSL2+ I currently use. I tried unsuccessfully to use the DBX insert bypassing its preamp but I think the SSL I/O is just too limiting. (I'm considering upgrading to an Audient id24.) I guess my question would be for those of us interested in improving the sound we get from just the interface and plugins and have an okay preamp built in, would we be more benefited in getting a dedicated preamp first or analog processing, like a compressor or eq?
*edit: I actually did get the SSL to connect properly as it was a matter of routing the correct track in Reaper to Output 3 (duh!). Now at least I can A/B the different preamps through the DBX processing
Hi, @scotsmith565. I believe it's pretty hard to beat the detail and control of plugin compressors and EQ. Some hardware units can absolutely improve the sound. However, they usually come with a hefty price tag. Hardware can also offer an authentic analog tone/feel/vibe, and I'm sure the argument over which is better (analog or plugin) will go on for years to come. I believe whatever you end up getting is more for you than anything else. If it makes you happy, then go for it. Here's the question you might ask yourself when considering new gear. Will the lack of hardware or authentic analog vibe prevent you from landing your next voice-over client? Personally, I doubt it. Thanks for reaching out!
@@HeyLennyB Thanks so Much! Yes I so wish these things weren't so expensive...would just love to try out and experiment with different setups to see for myself what results I could get but I imagine we are really hitting the law of diminishing returns
Hi Lenny, I think that the ec1 sounds so amazing compared to the 2i2. Do you think the difference would be as big coming from an audient or similar higher quality interface?
I expect it would, yes. As long as you get the connections right, you should hear at least the same difference.
@@HeyLennyB Thanks Lenny, you are the man and I love the quality content of your videos!
DBX286s tends to get noisy, and that might be due to its circuitry. However, is there another preamp out there equipped with the same effects? Or at least a gate and a compressor?
@thesilencer6736, The Behringer UV1 is very similar to the DBX286. Then, other channel strips with the same effects are limited and increase in price. You might take a look at the Drawmer MX60 and the ART Voice Channel. I hope this helps.
@@HeyLennyB Thanks Lenny!
I can hear the difference, eaven when I'm listening on my phone speakers... That means it makes a difference 😅
I have a Zoom L-12 that I have been recording vocals into Cakewalk. I have never been able to record a reasonably strong take. This is cumbersome because I can't hear the original take immediately. I have to use a process to add gain using cakewalk software after I record. I have an AT2035 condenser mic. All my levels appear to be good, but maybe I'm missing something. After watching your video, I'm thinking you might be able to suggest a way to move forward. Thank you and great video.
Hi Danny, you can use the Zoom L-12 as an audio interface and record directly into Cakewalk. If you have it set up that way, you can use the input meter on Cakewalk to set your input gain while you're recording. That's what I suggest. Thanks
Thanks. Great idea.
When editing commercials I use plugins from Waves or Reaper itself
hi lenny,, but use that jewels behind you! ahaha
the avalon and the isa ehehe
ps
what about the uad preamps emulation?
neve, avalon, api, manley...
with unison technology?
how they sounds compared to the hardware?
E
Those are the videos coming next! Thanks
@@HeyLennyB excited to see them! ;)
ciao from Italy
Molte prove hanno fatto vedere che sono molto simili, ma non identici. L'Apollo mi permette di avere un bel suono senza la dover cambiare valvole, tubi e di registrare direttamente nella DAW un suono "pronto", fantastico per spot di piccole aziende, narrazioni e clienti che non hanno bisogno del suono pulito, senza processing.
Piacere vedere un altro italiano qui! Volevo anche notare che sul tuo profilo CZcams il link per il tuo sito manca una 'o'.
Cordiali saluti,
Mark Mullens.
Ciao Marco, grazie per l'attenzione. Puoi dirmi specificamente dove vedi l'errore sulla mia pagina? Non capisco a cosa ti riferisci.
@@MarkVO ciao Mark 😄😄 grazie davvero per la segnalazione
non lo avrei mai notato!
lo correggo in giornata 🙏
un caro saluto
Would this help with the MixPre 3 II or are the Sound Devices preamps fine left alone?
The MixPre 3 preamps are top-notch! If you aren't getting a quiet, clean sound using it, something else in your system is likely causing the issue. Send me some audio, and I'll take a listen if you'd like. Please follow the three steps on this page: www.lennyb.com/get-your-voice-processed-submission-form
Thanks Lenny! I would like to provide audio sometime for an evaluation. I somehow thought it might be possible with this preamp to improve the MixPre 3 II sound even more. @@HeyLennyB
I’ve been following your videos for long and I’m a beginner . I’ve an Audient ID14 .I’m planning to buy DBX 286s ora Behringer UV1 as a preamp . Will they work with Audient ID14 mark 2 , or any other preamp within the same range . Regards
Or any other preamp if you think is better **
Yes it will work, however the DBX is a cheaper quality unit (in sound and electronic components) compared to your Audient ID14. The DBX will not add to the quality you can achieve. I can suggest a better preamp for you. However, I think I need more info first. What is your goal with adding a preamp? Do you want a better sound for real time streaming?
@@HeyLennyB Thank you so much for taking out your time and replying to my message . Appreciate it ! My goal is to get better sound . I was amazed by your video you made on DBX 286s . So , I thought to get one . Features like gateway , a good radio like voice coming out of it . Id love to get that . Thanks 😊
Ah that sounds good. It does create an amazing sound and they are fun little units. If your goal is to get a good, consistent "radio" type sound. They are really good. I have a video that you might be interested in watching. It goes through the UV1 and at the end compares the sound of the UV1 to the DBX 286s. czcams.com/video/mrW5Ml09CW0/video.html
@@HeyLennyB Thanks a ton ! I’ll go for it . God bless ! 😊
Excellent - not really a 101-type discussion, but this covers a lot of overlapping areas to consider. Obviously processing and using it skillfully can do a LOT, but even the pre-processing signals sound quite different, a difference which is then magnified by the processing. Having got a couple of external pres myself one thing I'm very aware of is matching the right pre to the right mic, and a general rule of thumb is hard with soft, spiky with smooth, dark with light ie a fairly bright, modern sounding mic like the TLM103 probably won't sound great with a hyper-clean or brilliant pre, but will with something softer or tube-ier.
Also room is such a HUGE part of the equation, without that all your processing is basically remedial rather than polishing something already good.
The only thing legitimate here was the buttons being cool......I mean you're right about the mic and pre amp stuff, it's just pre amps ARE cool looking. Makes your setup look like you've got some high tech process thingy going on. It's all complicated stuff so I won't go into details.......(no idea lol). That's just what I say
What mic are you using? Moreover, whats the exact setup you're using?
Although my equipment choice changes by day, for this video I'm using the TLM 103 to the Cranborne EC1 pre, to the Apollo X6. It's exactly the setup I'm used for the test.
@@HeyLennyB thank you very much Lenny
Okay. I have 3 questions.
1. Both preamp and audio interface got 48v, so should i turn both on then on while recording vocals?
2. How do i set it up? Like 1 xlr from audio interface to preamp then another to microphone to audio interface? (I dont even know whare to plug the xlr cable)
3. Direct monitoring. Again both got that option, if i just want to use my audio interfaces's (focusrite 2i2) direct monitoring can i do that.
Can you tell me the make/model of your equipment (mic, preamp, and interface)?
@@HeyLennyB yes its focusrite 2i2 and a condenser mic (Akg p220 ig)
I'm an upcoming artists wanting to improve the sound a lil bit 🙇♂️
What external preamp are you using?
Hi Lenny, I have a Rode NT1 going into a dbx286s then a Scarlett 2i2 then to my laptop, is this correct? I don't think i can bypass the Scarlett 2i2.
Hi Iain. No, unfortunately you need to go through the Scarlett 2i2. It's because Scarlett is giving you the analog to Digital converter necessary to get the audio to your computer. However, you can (possibly) get a better sound by bypassing the DBX and use only plugin processing to optimize your sound. The DBX 286s is a great unit and does a good job especially in a live or realtime situation. But to get the best recorded sound, I prefer using plugins to process. Send me a file (without the DBX connected) and let's see what it sounds like. Please fill out the form and follow the instructions to submit an audio example here www.lennyb.com/get-your-voice-processed-submission-form
2i2 doesn't have line input, he said that in the video. Lenny, is there any other budget interface with a line input in place, apart from 4i4?
There may be. I'd have to do some research. However, they'll likely be the same or more expensive than the 4i4. For the setup that Iain is describing (Rode NT1 - DBX 286s - 2i2) I would expect that using the 2i2 would be fine. The preamp in the 2i2 has slightly better stats than the DBX's pre. Bypassing the 2i2 (with a independent line in) would only matter if the external preamp you are using has better stats. Otherwise, you won't really notice much of a difference. I hope that makes sense.
Recently (6 months ago) I bought an ART Voice Channel, which I love … going into my Motu M2 however the noise floor is less desirable. The EC1 really seems like the way to go by-passing the VC's mic-pre's I really want something that is very clean like the M2 but can add color as needed. I thought about going with the Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV but knowing the EC1 also has the headphone mix I thinking I may be better off just saving a little. Anyone have any thoughts?
Hi @jonkthompson. You either have a connection or gain staging problem between your ART Voice Channel and your M2. I may be wrong, but that's my guess. You should be able to get an ultra-quiet sound with the equipment you have. I may be able to help. Feel free to email me if you'd like to schedule some consulting time. lenny@lennyb.com
@@HeyLennyB Great, thank you! I'll send you an email when I get off.
How do you get voice or dialogue to sound soft like it is in this clip? normally, when I hear a voice talking into a mic with good quality, everything you can kind of hear the mic itself or the voice hitting the microphone. It’s not soft like in this clip. Is it a matter of EQ or equipment? czcams.com/users/shortsu6pi6jLF2L0?feature=share
Hi Watching Hysteria, the link you sent isn't working. Can you resend?
@@HeyLennyB an alternative I suppose would be the one minute mark where they are in the studio at this link czcams.com/video/ZQ68G0CtD4Q/video.html
Ah, this is likely from a shotgun microphone. There is definitely the "sound of the room" included in the recording. Also the source of audio (voices/mouths) are far from the mic. So, to answer your question, it's due to the equipment and how the equipment set up is configured in the room.
Hello Lenny B, I'm Francisco Carlos, announcer and I follow your videos here in Brazil. If possible, I could pass on a technique tip to leave the voice in front of the radio and TV commercial. Thanks
Hi Francisco. I'm not sure I understand your question. Can you explain further?
@@HeyLennyB Yes. Thanks. When editing the commercial in the mix, to fit the voiceover perfectly, how can I leave the voice well ahead of the track. As in a song, when the singer's voice is well in front of the musical instruments, and we clearly notice, the voice stands out. In some radio commercials, this does not happen, the sound is muddy, the mix sounds bad, and the voice is hidden.
This explains how I achieve this. www.lennyb.com/day-3-the-EQ-masking-technique