Discover the Truth About Microphones and Singing Self Tapes!
Elevating Your Self-Tapes: The Impact of Using an External Microphone
If you're anything like me, a dedicated performer navigating the world of self-tapes and online content creation, you've probably wondered whether investing in an external microphone is truly worth it. Well, today, I'm going to share my personal journey and experiences with various microphones, shedding light on how they can transform your content and whether it's the right move for you.
As a musical theater performer, I've experimented with a wide range of microphones, from budget-friendly options to more premium ones. While the quality of the microphone does matter, I want to dive into the specifics of how using an external microphone has not only elevated my content but also added a layer of complexity, both physically and emotionally. So, let's jump right in with a real example of how I incorporate an external microphone into recording my self-tapes.
The microphone I use is one that I plug into my laptop, capturing both audio and video simultaneously—a setup similar to what you see in this very video. I use the same microphone for singing, speaking, teaching classes, recording voiceovers, and even while on the go for self-tapes. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, you can find the details of the microphone in the description box below.
Now, let's examine the difference in audio quality. First, I'll share a snippet of a self-tape without the external microphone—just the raw audio from filming with my phone.
[Audio Clip: Self-tape without external microphone]
Now, let's add in the external microphone audio to showcase the stark difference.
[Audio Clip: Self-tape with external microphone]
Quite a difference, right? This contrast becomes even more apparent with another example, this time focusing on a more subdued vocal performance.
[Audio Clip: Another self-tape without external microphone]
And now, let's introduce the external microphone audio.
[Audio Clip: Another self-tape with external microphone]
The drastic improvement in audio quality is undeniable. It not only enhances the viewer's experience but also allows your voice to be heard more clearly, as if you were performing live. But, of course, with great audio comes great responsibility—there's more work involved.
Now, I'd love to hear from you. Do you currently use an external microphone for your self-tapes? Drop a comment below with a 'yes' or 'no,' and let's continue the conversation.
Moving on to spoken content, whether it's sides or monologues for callbacks, let's explore another example. Here's a snippet without the microphone, using just the audio from my iPhone.
[Audio Clip: Spoken content without external microphone]
And now, let's enhance it with the fancy external microphone.
[Audio Clip: Spoken content with external microphone]
The difference is striking, isn't it? You might be wondering, "Where do I set it up?" Well, the setup varies based on the content. For speaking, I try to position the microphone as close as possible, often on a stool just below eye level, ensuring it's not in the shot.
Now, let's address the burning question: Is it worth it? The answer depends on your self-taping experience. If you're just starting out, simplicity is key. Invest time in honing your performance rather than drowning in technicalities. But if you've been at it for a while and are ready to elevate your sound quality, consider investing in a microphone.
Speaking of investments, I'll be transparent about the microphone I use. It took me years to decide on it, and yes, it's an investment. However, its compact size and excellent performance make it travel-friendly and a constant companion in my artistic journey. Check the description for details.
Remember, done is better than perfect. Prioritize delivering a stellar performance over obsessing about equipment.
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. With her expertise as an experienced actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she helps artists build fulfilling lives and careers based on their definition of success.
