One of the most common tools used to process professional voice-over recordings is a DeEsser. In this video, I show you my procedure to set a DeEsser processor to yield a great voice-over sound. I’ll explain exactly what a DeEsser is and how it works. I’ll also explain when the use of a DeEsser for voice-over is necessary, in my opinion, and when it’s not. By the end of this video, you’ll understand how to use any DeEsser on a voice-over recording to get optimized results.

A DeEsser is a compressor that can focus on a particular frequency window. When working with voice recordings, we usually use a DeEsser to focus on high-frequencies and sibilant sounds. Those are the “SH” or “ESS” sounds we make with our voices. A DeEsser can reduce high-frequency sibilant sounds but offers you lots of control. You can have the DeEsser only work when those sibilant sounds reach a specific loudness, leaving the high frequencies untouched when they’re not loud. Also, many DeEssers allow you to fine-tune which high frequencies are being affected. This is helpful because, as you might expect, everyone’s voice is different.

When deciding to use a DeEsser or deciding on the amount of DeEsser processing, I suggest you approach the decision with balance in mind. You will likely intend to remove an overabundant sibilant or offending frequency. However, you need to weigh how much of the “Ess” sound is part of the voice-over artist’s personality and character. Ask yourself if removing too much changes the authentic sound that makes the voice-over artists who they are (original).

A DeEsser generally has two main features. First, a frequency selector allows you to identify the frequency space to be modified. Second, a threshold that sets the processor’s engagement level. Setting a DeEsser for voice-over is a snap once you understand a few concepts about frequency. In this video, I show you my method for finding the optimal DeEsser frequency. I accomplish this by using a real-time frequency analyzer found in some parametric EQ and other plugins.

Want To Learn More?
There are many more ways to manipulate audio. You can learn more about shaping frequencies and other processing techniques to improve voice-over recordings. Understanding audio frequencies and using an EQ is a fundamental audio engineering skill and a significant first step. You can enroll in the EQ Fundamentals For Voice-Over training course here https://www.lennyb.com/eq-fundamental...

▬ Training Course Links ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
EQ Fundamentals For Voice
https://www.lennyb.com/https://www.le...

See All Training Courses From Lenny B
https://www.lennyb.com/training-courses

▬ Custom Processing Link ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Submit your voice for a free sample of Lenny's custom processing.
https://www.lennyb.com/get-your-voice...

▬ Equipment / Plugin Links ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Fabfilter Pro DS
http://sweetwater.sjv.io/6eZ5gb

iZotope’s Insight
http://sweetwater.sjv.io/9govQj

Waves F6 Floating-Band Dynamic EQ Plugin
http://sweetwater.sjv.io/q4dyxq

Waves Scheps Omni Channel Plugin
http://sweetwater.sjv.io/GmKZYm

Lenny's microphone used in this video: Roswell Mini k87
https://roswellproaudio.com/lennyb

Lenny's Preamp used in this video: Neve 1073spx
https://sweetwater.sjv.io/an924j

Lenny's audio Interface used in this video: Apollo X6
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/deta...

▬ About Lenny B ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
I help content creators make a stronger connection with their audience. Voice-over artists, actors, musicians, and performers worldwide come to me to help improve their production quality, expand their influence, grow their audience, win more auditions, and get more work. Some of the links on this page are links to affiliate websites, and I receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. My affiliates include Sweetwater, Roswell Microphones, Gik Acoustics, Waves, and Amazon.

#audioproduction #voiceover #voiceoverartist #voiceactingadvice #voiceactingadvice #acoustictreatment