VO-BB - 19 YEARS OLD!

[Tren Hester]

I came across the Layla and Gina series by Echo. Can someone tell me the basics (and only the basics) of digital audio recorders?



Specifically, the pros/cons for basic voiceover work with windows-based Adobe Audition.



I definetely appreciate any advice on home studio gear.

[Frank F]

How simple do you want it?



The real basics are: Layla and Gina are audio cards. If you already use Audition, then you already have something to input your audio into the computer - a sound card.



Layla is used for multi-tracking (6 analog inputs/8 analog outputs - Echo Layla3G), and the Gina3G is a two I/O card. Both need PCI slots INSIDE your computer - unless you wish to pay extra for another adapter to make them Firewire capable. Which translates to you could use the devices with your laptop.



The Gina would be a semi-costly bet for VO, but would easily interface with Audition. Layla would be - very expensive.



DAR's are a standalone device which oftentimes come with a small mixer and may use a hard drive or MMC/SD card as a storage medium. Many are able to convert the digital file you have recorded to several different types of formats such as MP3 - some do not have this capabilty.



DAR's are usually a cute toy for the bored musician. The reason - they are capable of some multi-track capabilities, and have limited editing funtions/interfaces - many are unlike what you are used to with Audition and are fairly expensive for what you get. Musicians sometimes feel that the more they spend - the more they get.



Could one use a DAR for VO? Yes. However, my personal experience would tend to say get a laptop and a Firewire or USB soundcard and you will feel more comfortable and will likely enjoy a smaller dollar amount to receive better results for your needs.



Soundcards are available which operate with USB connections and as mentioned earlier - Firewire (IEEE 1394) from companies such as: PreSonus, Edirol/Roland, MOTU, DigiDesign, M-Audio, Tascam, RME, SoundBlaster, E-Mu, TerraTec, etc.



That - is the "basics", as requested. We could go into multitrack recording, quality of microphones, sampling, MIDI, and a whole myriad of other areas of the audio world, but there is not enough space on this forum for that kind of detail.



Remember the "KISS" system - Keep It Simple Silly - it a great acronym when it comes to your pocketbook and your business world of Voice Overs.



Frank F