Voodoo Sound

26/06/2024

Ask any voice actor who’s been around the block more than once, and they’ll tell you that mastering your mic technique is crucial for delivering clear and impactful performances.

Back in February, I wrote a blog on the topic and figured I’d share it again, given how well it was received.

Key Takeaways:

Proper Placement: Learn how to position your microphone to capture the best sound.

Control Your Dynamics: Tips on managing your vocal volume to avoid distortion and ensure consistency.

Use Pop Filters: Reduce plosive sounds for a cleaner recording.
Experiment with Distance: Find the sweet spot that works best for your voice and style.

Perfecting your mic technique can make a huge difference in the quality of your recordings, helping you to deliver every word with clarity and impact. As an added bonus, it will have every Audio Engineer worth their salt screaming your praises!

Curious to learn more? Check out the full blog post here: Mic Technique: Making Every Word Count

What’s your go-to tip for mic technique? Share it in the comments below!

https://www.voodoosound.com.au/post/mic-technique-making-every-word-count

A mate of mine, and Pro Audio Suite Co-Host George 'The Tech' Witham recently shared a great diagram on mic techniques that sparked a bit of a brainstorm for me on the sublect. So I thought I'd expand on his genius and give you some real-deal strategies to nail your next recording. 1. Harnessing the...

25/06/2024

I was in a casting session for a major agency on Friday. As we worked our way through the prospective talents' demos, I was reminded of a crucial tip that many of the VOs had neglected: making sure your demo reflects current and emerging trends.

Why This Matters: Your demo is often your first (and sometimes only) chance to impress potential clients. From my experience sitting in casting sessions with many of the top Australian and international agencies, I can tell you that the first 5 seconds are critical. That’s about all the average demo gets in the first round of 'listen-throughs' before those in the room make up their minds whether you go into the next round or are just flat-out rejected.

Tips for a Standout Demo:

Reflect Current and Emerging Trends: Stay updated with industry trends and incorporate them into your demo. This shows you’re versatile and in tune with what’s popular and upcoming.

Nail the First 5 Seconds: Make sure the beginning of your demo grabs attention immediately. Highlight your strengths right from the start to make a lasting impression.

Professional Quality: Use top-tier equipment and techniques to ensure your demo sounds crisp and professional.

Tailored to You: Showcase your unique strengths and style. Your demo should truly represent your abilities.

Ensure Repeatability: Make sure your performance is repeatable. Spending hours editing together the perfect take can come back to bite you if you can’t repeat the performance in the studio when requested.

If you're ready to take your career to the next level or need to update your current demo, check out my Voice Over Demo service. With a client list that includes Lofty Fulton, Matt Cowlrick and Andrew Peters amongst many others, you're in good company.

https://www.voodoosound.com.au/vo-demo

Have questions or want to know more? Drop a comment below or send me a message. Let’s kickstart your week with a step towards achieving your voice-over goals!

24/06/2024

I take pride in helping voice actors create transformative demos that showcase their unique talent. Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of working with Phil Cantone on his voice-over demo, and the results were fantastic!

Phil was looking to get back into voice over after spending some time away. Together we crafted a demo that highlights his versatility and range, from energetic commercial reads to heartfelt narrations. The transformation was incredible, and Phil has been landing more auditions and jobs since.

The demo production process focuses on three key principles:

1. Repeatable: Ensuring that the demo showcases your skills in a way that you can consistently replicate.

2. Believable: Creating authentic reads that connect with the audience.

3. Goal-Focused: Tailoring the demo to achieve specific career goals, whether it’s landing more auditions or securing high-profile gigs.

Check out Phil Cantone’s demo below to hear the quality for yourself! And if you're ready to take your voice-over career to the next level, drop me a line and let’s create a demo that truly represents your skills and sets you apart from the competition! 🎙️✨

23/06/2024

Tuesday Tip: Achieving a Natural Conversational Read 🎙️

I wanted to share some tips on how to achieve that natural, conversational tone that clients love. It's becoming more and more the go-to read in many sessions I'm involved in with some of the top agencies in the country.

Tips for a Natural Conversational Read:

Be Yourself: Authenticity is key. Speak as you would in a normal conversation, using your natural voice and tone.

Understand the Script: Take the time to really understand the script. Know the message and the emotions behind the words.

Practice Pacing: Don’t rush. Find a comfortable pace that feels natural and allows the message to come through clearly.

Use Body Language: Even though you're behind a mic, use gestures and facial expressions as you read. It helps convey emotion and makes the read sound more genuine.

Record and Listen Back: Record a few takes and listen back to them. Adjust your tone, pace, and inflections based on what sounds most natural.

Mastering the conversational read can make a huge difference in your voice-over work, helping you connect with your audience in a more genuine way.

What are your go-to tips for achieving a natural read? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

04/06/2024

🎧 Exciting News! 🎧

I'm thrilled to launch Just Ask Robbo – your go-to for personalized audio guidance. Get expert help with podcasting, home studios, and more!

🌟 Exclusive Offer: Voodoo Sound subscribers enjoy a 15% discount on their first booking! Use code VOODOO15 at justaskrobbo.com. 🌟

Let’s elevate your sound together!

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https://mailchi.mp/692e717e7806/elevate-your-sound

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news with you – especially since you've been such a valued member of the Voodoo Sound community. After 35 years of diving deep into the world of audio, I'm launching a brand-new venture that's near and dear to my heart: Just Ask Robbo.

03/06/2024

Dive into the results of our recent Facebook group poll on favorite microphones! From the trusty Shure SM7B to the high-end Sennheiser MKH 8060, we discuss the mics you love and why. Discover surprising mentions, hear some great customer service stories, and join the passionate discussion about the tools that shape our sound.

🔗 Listen Now

Thanks to our sponsors: Tribooth and Austrian Audio. Don't forget to use code TRIPAP200 for $200 off your Tribooth!

In this episode of The Pro Audio Suite, we dive into the results of our recent Facebook group poll on favourite microphones. From the Shure SM7B to the Sennheiser MKH 8060, we discuss the mics you love and why. Robbo, George, AP, and Robert share their insights on the top picks, including some surpr...

23/05/2024

🚗📱 Texting and driving is a deadly mix. This latest South Australian commercial is a powerful reminder to keep our eyes on the road and our hands on the wheel.

Watching this, I couldn’t help but get flashbacks to the infamous Simon Reynolds AIDS campaign of the 80s—proof that everything old is new again. Check out the spot and let me know in the comments if you agree!

Drivers are given a "Grim" reminder to stop flirting with Death in South Australia Police's new road safety campaign.The campaign showcases the idea that eve...

22/04/2024

For over a decade, I've had the privilege of shaping the sound for Singapore's ONE FM. On April 8, they launched a fresh new sound, and I was again at the helm of their imaging revamp!

This opportunity was special not just for its creative challenges but also because it was the first time I got to work on an Imaging Project with the legendary Andrew Peters in our 30-year friendship. AP isn’t just a phenomenal voice talent; he’s also my mate and co-host on the Pro Audio Suite Podcast alongside George "The Tech" Witham and Robert Marshall.

The chemistry was off the charts and I think the results really show it. We had an absolute blast, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear the new sound of ONE FM. Tune in and turn it up!

Samples of Voodoo SOund Imaging Production for ONEFM Singapore

19/04/2024

Exciting news from The Pro Audio Suite! Join Robbo, Robert and Andrew as they dive into the latest advancements in remote collaboration with Source Connect Four. Special guests from Source Elements share insights into the game-changing features and future integrations.

In this special episode of The Pro Audio Suite, join hosts Robbo, Andrew, and George as they dive deep into the latest advancements in remote collaboration technology with Source Connect Four. Joined by special guests Rebecca, Ross, and Vincent from Source Elements, the team discusses the game-chang...

12/04/2024

What a ride this week has been! I just wrapped up a thrilling re-launch for Singapore's ONE FM, rebranding them with the new tagline "The Hits Re-Imagined." It's always exhilarating to inject new life into familiar jams, and doing it alongside SPH media, my partners in crime since 2015 makes it all the more rewarding!

Meanwhile, I've also been secretly cooking up a rebrand for a major Australian network. Details are hush-hush until May, but let's just say, it's been an interesting ride. The takeaway for me? Don't overthink things, and more importantly, trust my instincts more often. I can't wait to tell you more, so stay tuned.

Amid all the chaos, I also found solace in some tunes I hadn't spun for some time. Dire Straits— a band that hadn't even been on my Radar for so many years popped up on Spotify during a let night "Destress" walk this week. Since then they've been on high rotation whenever the chance presents itself. Proof that the right melody can be a sanctuary.

I also spent some time diving into podcast sessions for the clients of a mate of mine who is taking some time out of the studio. While he's fine, I'm looking after his key clients for him. Working with new faces and hearing new perspectives on podcasting has reminded me how refreshing it is to exchange ideas with someone new. Every voice has a story, and every story sparks a new insight.

On a personal note, I'm looking forward to unwinding with the fam this weekend—footy, birthdays, and a few surprises for the kids! It'll be my first full days off since February, so I'm choking at the bit to get started. It all kicks off tonight (literally) with round two of the Sydney Golden Oldies Rugby comp close to 50 years running around the square oval and I still love it. Why? Because why should kids have all the fun?

Enjoy the weekend, and keep your ears open and your spirits high!

08/04/2024

🎒🎙️ On the go but still in the show! This week's "Pro Audio Suite" takes you on a journey with AP's compact recording setup – a kit so portable, it travels on a Vespa! We're breaking down barriers (and a few iPhone generations) to show you how to keep your audio sharp, no matter your location. With tales from the road, tech tips, and a few laughs about our beloved old iPhones, it's an episode not to be missed. Hit the road with us and discover how to bring professional sound everywhere you go. 🚀

This week on "The Pro Audio Suite," we're exploring the art of on-the-go recording with AP's road trip setup. Sponsored by Tribooth and Austrian Audio, we delve into how to maintain professional audio quality without the confines of a studio. AP unveils his compact kit, perfect for any travel scenar...

05/04/2024

🌟 Creativity Unlocked: Discovering Your Peak Time 🌟

Ever wondered why sometimes your creativity flows like a tidal wave, while at other times, it's more like a trickling stream? The secret could be simpler than we think: it's all in the timing.

After years in the audio production game, I hit a creative block. The more I pushed, the harder it became to find that spark. That was until I stumbled upon a game-changer: "When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing" by Daniel Pink. This read didn't just enlighten me—it transformed my approach to creativity.

Turns out, our peak creative times might be wired into us, dictated by our natural rhythms. Are you an early bird or a night owl? And how does that affect your creativity?

In my latest blog, I dive deep into my personal journey from creative stagnation to revelation, and how understanding my chronotype unlocked a world of creative potential I didn't know I had. I share how adjusting my schedule to align with my peak creative times has not only boosted my productivity but also made the creative process much more enjoyable.

Whether you're crafting melodies, mixing tracks, or brainstorming the next big idea, discovering your optimal creative time can be the key to unlocking your full potential.

Curious to learn more and find your own peak creative time? Dive into the full story on my blog. Let's embrace our unique rhythms and make creativity flow on our own terms.

👉 https://bit.ly/dpinkwhen

"Creativity is intelligence having fun"Albert EinsteinFive years ago, I found myself at a creative crossroads, wrestling with a problem that seemed all too familiar to many in the creative field. Every time I booted up Pro Tools, I was greeted with a blank canvas that remained stubbornly empty. Proj...

05/04/2024

🌙✨ When Are You Truly Creative? Discover Your Peak Time! - https://mailchi.mp/746785b0b89d/when-are-you-truly-creative-discover-your-peak-time

27/03/2024

We're rolling out the red carpet for this week's special video episode of The Pro Audio Suite. Austrian Audio is in the spotlight, and we're unboxing some of their finest gear just for you.

From the studio-ready OC818 to the versatile CC8, and the voiceover-friendly OC7, join us for a visual and auditory feast. Big thanks to Austrian Audio for the gear and believing in our little program. Also Tribooth for their support (remember, code TRIPAP gets you a $200 discount).

Don't miss out on this unique viewing experience. Click to watch and elevate your audio skills: https://bit.ly/AAepisode

Strap in for this week's episode of The Pro Audio Suite, where we dive into a box of Austrian Audio marvels that's just landed on our doorstep. Thanks to Aus...

25/03/2024

🎤 This week on The Pro Audio Suite, we're diving deep into the art of recording on the move. 🚀 From shotgun mics in echoey rooms to the tightrope walk of using plugins like de-reverb and noise reduction, we've got you covered. 🛠️

Ever wonder how to maintain studio-quality sound in less-than-ideal conditions? Or how to navigate the tricky waters of audio correction without losing the essence of your sound? 🤔💡

Join us as we explore the black belt techniques of mobile recording, share our top tips for acing your audio setup anywhere, and laugh about our own misadventures in the wide world of voiceovers. 🌍🎙️

Tune in to for a blend of expert advice, technical deep dives, and a dash of fun, ensuring your next on-the-go recording hits all the right notes. 🎶🔊

This week on The Pro Audio Suite, we tackle the intricate world of recording on the go. With the ever-increasing demand for mobility in voiceover work, we dissect the use of shotgun mics in less-than-ideal environments, the golden rule of getting your setup right from the start, and the tempting but...

25/03/2024

I released a blog on the perfect DAW for Voice Over a couple of weeks ago. It certainly caused a stir and led to some choice comments about the DAWS I had not mentioned. So to put the issue to bed I'm hitting you with an encore on our DAW series!

🚀 Introducing Part 2 of our Ultimate DAW Guide for Voice-Over Artists: this time, featuring the unsung heroes like Reaper, WavePad, and the rising star, Studio One. Whether you’re just starting to lay down tracks or you’re on the lookout for something that offers more bang for your buck, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Dive deep into the pros and cons, get the lowdown on what makes these DAWs stand out, and find your perfect match. Your next masterpiece is just a software choice away!

Check out the full encore here: https://bit.ly/dawpt2

Let’s keep the conversation going! What do you love most about your DAW? Drop your thoughts below! 🎤✨

21/03/2024

A big shoutout to the legends at Austrian Audio for hooking me up with a sweet stash of audio gold! Just landed at Voodoo Sound HQ: a pair of HIX 65s, HIX X 55s, and the majestic OC818 Studio Set. 🎧🎙️

Brace yourselves, folks, because my unboxing videos are about to hit your screens soon. These aren’t just any pieces of gear; we’re talking about the Rolls-Royce of headphones and a mic set that I can't wait to try out!

A massive thank you to the crew at Austrian Audio. Stay tuned to see these beauties in action on the Pro Audio Suite real soon. And remember, if it sounds good, it’s probably Austrian Audio. 😉

18/03/2024

🎙️ This week on The Pro Audio Suite, we're unpacking a hot topic from the MEAA - the push for phone-only voiceover auditions. Is it a game-changer or a step back? Plus, we dive deep into the treasure trove of audio tech history, from the marvels of smartphone mics to the tales of anti-piracy measures that sound more like spy stories. 📱🔊

Join us as we explore the implications for voice actors and the industry at large, reminisce about the days of digital watermarking and CD hacks, and debate whether AI is reshaping our future or if we're just hearing the echo of past tech battles. 🎤✨

Don't miss out on the laughs, insights, and a few pro tips that might just save your next audition. Tune in to for a journey through sound and technology that's as informative as it is entertaining. 🔍🎧

This week on the Pro Audio Suite, we've taken a deep dive into the evolving landscape of voiceover auditions, with a particular focus on a new directive from the MEAA suggesting auditions be conducted solely via phone. We debate the potential impacts, from audio quality to AI protections, and whethe...

13/03/2024

Hey guys, Robbo here! 🎤 Ever feel like picking the right software for your voice-over work is like trying to find a needle in a digital haystack? Well, although I've been a Pro Tools grouper for almost as long as there's been a Mac in my studio, I do love to tinker with less familiar platforms. So I decided to share some of my discoveries along the way.

I’ve put together a blog all about choosing the perfect Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for your home voice (or podcast) studio. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re in the market for something more advanced, I’ve covered options from the free and easy, like Audacity, to the full-blown pros, like Pro Tools. And, because love to keep things interesting, I've thrown in a curveball. While I'm not going to give it away here (you'll have to read the blog for that) it’s a ripper piece of software that might just be the easy-going DAW you were looking for.

Choosing the right DAW can make all the difference in your voice-over and podcast work. So, why not swing by the blog and see if I can’t help make that choice a bit easier?

https://bit.ly/mydaw

Here’s to making noise that’s music to the ears! 🎧

11/03/2024

🎙️ New Episode Alert: The Pro Audio Suite - “Echoes of Innovation: Remembering Bob Heil” 🎚️

This week, we're turning up the volume on the legacy of a true pioneer in the world of sound - Bob Heil. From the mighty organ to the invention of the talk box that electrified rock and roll, Bob's journey is nothing short of legendary. 🌟

🔊 Dive into exclusive clips, including a rare interview from the NAMM show in 2017, as we explore the stories and sounds that made Bob Heil a household name in pro audio. Discover the magic behind the birth of rock and roll sound and the iconic moments that defined an era.

💔 We also pay tribute to Bob, sharing personal reflections and the indelible mark he left on the industry. His innovations resonate through every note and his passion for audio has inspired countless to make their mark.

🙏 Special thanks to our sponsors Austrian Audio and Tri-Booth for supporting our journey into sound. Don’t forget to snag your Tri-Booth with $200 off using code "TripaP200" and experience the craftsmanship of Austrian Audio making passion heard.

Join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Bob Heil. Hit play and let's get lost in the echoes of innovation.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, or share your own Bob Heil stories. Let’s keep the conversation (and the music) going!

We delve into the legacy of Bob Heil, a titan in the pro audio industry whose influence reverberates through the echoes of rock and roll history. From his early days wielding the organ to revolutionizing live sound with his groundbreaking work alongside legends like The Who and Grateful Dead, Heil's...

29/02/2024

Whether you're frustrated with the one you've got, you're just starting out and not sure where to begin, or feel like it's time for a change, I've just laid out a no-fuss guide to help you pick the perfect DAW for your voice-over work.

I’ve covered everything from the easy-going Audacity and TwistedWave to the more souped-up Adobe Audition and Pro Tools. Plus, I've thrown in a bit of a wildcard for those looking for something straightforward yet effective and best of all FREE.

Choosing the right DAW doesn’t have to be like finding a needle in a haystack. Whether you're just kicking off or you're looking to level up, there's something for everyone. So, let’s get you set up with the right tools to make your voice-over projects shine.

Check out the full scoop here:https://bit.ly/therightdaw

23/02/2024

This week has been anything but 'Average", and I just had to share.

Firstly I found myself running the show from my parent's place as my Dad was in the hospital for a scheduled surgery, and I was needed here to help out my ageing Mum. While it has been a complete pleasure, it was also a reminder of life’s unexpected turns and the strength we find in family ties. It's been a change of pace from the regular studio’s hustle and bustle, proving you can mix tracks anywhere, but family’s a one-of-a-kind gig.

I was also privileged to have a deep and meaningful with Lachy on his podcast called "Behind the Scenes". It's about the unsung heroes behind the Australian media. Lachy is part of the "Radio Voice" Program, a beacon of light in the disability sector, showcasing the transformative power of radio and podcasting. You can listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21uwsiP62IHJtWMPW4Ygux

With some extra time on my hands, I jotted down a few words of advice on mic technique over on the Voodoo Sound blog. It’s the bread and butter of nailing that perfect sound, a blend of art and science on literally getting yourself in the right spot to record the perfect sounding session. Dive in here for the lowdown: https://www.voodoosound.com.au/post/mic-technique-making-every-word-count

With connections being the lifeblood of our industry, I also took the opportunity to catch up with Andrew "Oysters" Kilpatrick, the legend behind the Australian Radio Archive "The Radio Antenna". We shared stories and a laugh or two, and it reminded me of the community we’re all part of. It’s these moments that fuel the creativity and keep the passion alive.

Another thing that got me jumping this week was working in a new location. Even with a much more streamlined setup, the view of the golf course and a new environment kept the creative wheels turning with projects for SBS and SPH Radio Singapore on the Mac. The work never stops, but neither does the thrill of crafting something special.

On Tuesday the Pro Audio Suite also dropped a new episode. We had a blast chatting about Podfest (George was a guest) , and uncovering the latest in audio and AI innovations. The episode is a real schmoozegasm, packed with insights and laughter. Tune in to get the full scoop: https://www.theproaudiosuite.com/podcast/episode/3a30851e/schmoozegasm-at-podfest-unveiling-audio-and-ai-innovations

In all, this week has been a testament to the power of adaptability, the warmth of connections, and the relentless drive of creativity. Whether it’s a makeshift studio at my folks', a heartfelt podcast, or a blog post shared across the waves, it’s all about making those connections count, sharing the knowledge, and keeping the tunes flowing.

Thanks for being part of this journey, for the support, and for keeping the good vibes rolling. Here’s to the moments that remind us of what truly matters. I'm off to crack the top of a well-deserved cold one, enjoy the weekend, and I can't wait to see what next week brings.

Cheers to more adventures ahead,

Robbo

21/02/2024

35 years in the studio, creating soundscapes for Radio, TV, The Cinema, Web and more has taught me a lot. But one thing that is true across all these disciplines is that laying the right soundscape isn’t just important—it’s crucial to immersing your listeners in your message. And this is true even for podcasts. The magic of a podcast isn’t just in the words; it’s in the world you create around them with music and sound effects. So, if you're lost in a sea of crazy FX and music that just doesn't sit right, let me show you how you can craft a soundscape that captivates, engages, and keeps your podcast sounding fresh as ever.

🔊 Cranking Up the Creativity with Music

Music isn’t just background noise; it’s the heartbeat of your podcast. Picking the right track is like choosing the perfect spice for your dish – it can make all the difference. Here’s the short and skinny on how to get the right vibe happening from the get-go:

Vibe Check: Match the music to the mood of your episode. Whether it’s high-energy, chill vibes, or anything in between, make sure it complements your content.

Audience Expectations: Think about what music your listeners are listening to. Keeping your audience’s tastes in mind ensures they stay tuned in and engaged with what you have to say.

Legals: Navigate the maze of copyright like a pro. Opt for royalty-free tracks or get those licenses sorted to avoid any buzzkill legal issues. There's nothing worse than spending an eternity getting your audio just right, only to have it muted, or worse, taken down because you tried to pull a swifty on a copyright owner. Download Royalty free tracks, or better still, create your own. (We'll cover that one another day).

💥 Sound Effects: The Secret Sauce of Storytelling
Sound effects are your aural brushstrokes, painting vivid images in the minds of your listeners. Here’s how to master this art:

Less Is More: Use sound effects to enhance, not overwhelm. Strategic placement can elevate your narrative without cluttering it.

Ambient Vibes: Create immersive atmospheres with ambient sounds. Transport your listeners to any scene, from a bustling city to a tranquil beach.

Creative Voice Play: Don’t shy away from playing with vocal effects for different segments or characters. Just a touch can add depth and intrigue to your audio canvas. (Again, we'll dive deeper into these another day).

🎚 Mixing It Up: Keeping Your Podcast Fresh
The key to a vibrant podcast is never letting the audio landscape go stale. Here are some beats to keep in mind:

Seasonal Refreshes: Change up your intro/outro music or sound effects with the seasons or for special episodes to keep things exciting.

Listener Input: Engage your audience by asking for their feedback on your sound design or music choices. It’s a great way to make them feel part of the creative process.

Experimentation Station: Always be on the lookout for new sounds, music, and effects to experiment with. Keeping your ears open can lead to some epic audio discoveries.

🛠 Tools of the Trade

Diving into sound design doesn’t mean you need to break the bank. There are plenty of accessible tools and libraries out there to help you find the perfect sounds for your podcast. From Epidemic Sound to Free Music Archive, start building your audio arsenal and explore the endless possibilities.

So, now that you’ve got the insider tips, it’s time to turn up the dial on your podcast’s sound design. Remember, the right tunes and a well-placed sound effect can transform any podcast from just another show to an unforgettable auditory experience. So, let your creativity loose, experiment boldly, and keep those beats fresh (and legal).