Improve Your Audio For These Project Types

If you capture your voice with a microphone, I can help you improve your sound, intelligibility, noise floor, and more. Here are just some of the types of projects that can benefit from the custom processing service.

• Commercial Voice-Overs
• Podcasts
• Audiobooks
• Broadcast Radio
• Tutorials
• Vlogs
• Meditation
• Gaming Streams
• ASMR Video
• Live Streams
• Webinars

• Educational audio/video
• Language Learning
• Voice acting for Animation
• Voice acting for Storytelling
• Voice acting for video games
• Advertising
• Corporate Training
• Personal messaging
• Voice Journaling
• Text-to-speech applications
• Voice assistants

What Is A Lenny B Custom Processing Setting? 

A Lenny B Custom Processing Preset is a meticulously crafted audio toolkit for your DAW, designed to streamline and enhance your mixing and mastering workflow.  At its core, it’s a pre-configured chain of audio processing settings—encompassing equalization (EQ), compression, saturation, limiting, and other essential tools—tailored specifically to your voice, your microphone, your room, and your mic's position in that room. These presets are not one-size-fits-all templates; instead, they are precision-engineered configurations based on your music style, vocal characteristics, or desired tonal balance. Each parameter is fine-tuned by Lenny B to ensure optimal clarity, punch, warmth, and cohesion. A custom preset simplifies complex audio processing tasks, reducing guesswork and saving valuable time. With a Lenny B Custom Processing Preset, you gain access to professional-grade sound processing at the click of a button, empowering you to achieve polished, radio-ready results effortlessly.

How Does The Custom Processing Service Work?

To start, you need to submit a sample of your raw (unprocessed) audio. It is essential to provide a completely unprocessed audio recording to identify any potential issues with your fundamental recording process. Please adhere to the submission instructions provided on the submission page. Our submission form also allows you to describe your equipment setup, any challenges you faced, and your goals.

Next, I will conduct a quality diagnosis and provide assistance. During this phase, your audio file will be reviewed. If any adjustments to your recording process are necessary, I will respond with suggestions to help you resolve those issues. Common problems include suboptimal recording levels and insufficient room treatment. If issues are identified, you can send another example file for processing once they are resolved.

Once your recording meets the required standards, I will move on to custom preset sound design. A processed sound design will be created specifically for your voice based on decades of professional experience. Professional processing plugins will be used to fine-tune your sound. The resulting audio will be my interpretation of what sounds great; however, I will respect your preferences if you wish to adjust the final sound.

You will then have the opportunity to review the processed audio. An example of the new processed voice-over sound will be provided for your evaluation. You can listen to it, share it with others, and compare it to reference recordings. I believe that a well-processed sound of your voice instills confidence and fosters a stronger emotional connection with your audience. At this stage, you can decide whether to proceed with the purchase of the custom setting. There is no obligation to buy.

If you choose to move forward, you can request an invoice. I will include a detailed explanation of the necessary plugins to install the setting on your system. If you decide not to purchase, there is no charge or pressure; I simply hope you will share information about my service with your voice-over friends and colleagues.

Finally, I will handle the preset delivery and installation. Once payment is received, I will prepare your preset files along with installation instructions for your system. If you need assistance getting the presets running smoothly, I can help you via video call. As a result, you will be able to make professional-sounding recordings every time you press record. The guesswork will be eliminated, allowing you to focus on performing with the confidence that your audio sounds great!

What Can A Custom Setting Do For Me? 

There are two main benefits you'll gain from custom processing settings from Lenny B. First, you'll have the assurance of a professional audio engineer, ensuring that your sound is the best it can be. Second, it will boost your confidence. You'll be able to focus on creating recordings and performing rather than worrying about whether your audio quality meets professional standards.

To succeed in today’s competitive voice-over industry, it's essential for your demos, auditions, and recordings to stand out. Voice-over artists from around the world are competing for roles at various skill levels. Without a professional-quality sound, you risk being overlooked for the opportunities that come your way.

How Much Does It Cost? 

Before I can provide an accurate price quote for your custom processing preset, I need to diagnose your equipment, system, and raw audio sound. Once I have a clear understanding of the work required, I will gladly send you an itemized quote for the cost of the preset.

You can demo the sound of your custom-tuned preset at no charge, allowing you to get an accurate idea of how the finished product can enhance your voice-over sound without any cost. Additionally, I often provide free advice on improving your recording process.

What Plugins Can Be Used? 

To enhance the quality of a voice recording, four essential processors are typically required: a parametric equalizer (EQ), compression, a DeEsser, and an expander/gate. Some plugins perform a single processing task, while others can accomplish multiple tasks within one plugin.

A standard plugin configuration often includes two reasonably priced Waves plugins that are compatible with most professional digital audio workstations (DAWs). These plugins are the F6 Floating-Band Dynamic EQ and the Scheps Omni Channel, both of which offer excellent control for improving voice recordings. This configuration works well with various DAWs, including Audacity, Adobe Audition, Reaper, Studio One, and others. Waves plugins provide a great balance of quality and value.

Additionally, you may need other plugins, such as noise reduction and restoration processors, to achieve optimal sound quality. We can discuss your preferred plugin choices during the review process. Please note that you will be responsible for any separate costs associated with the plugins used.

Specific plugin requests are also available, including stock DAW plugins and Universal Audio plugins. However, additional fees may apply for these specific requests.

Will The Custom Preset Be Compatible With My DAW? 

Professional DAWs are compatible with any of the plugins I recommend for achieving optimal sound. However, it's important to note that some free DAWs, like Audacity, may not work properly with certain VST plugins. Additionally, compatibility and the proper functioning of plugins can depend on the computer they are running on and the available memory.

That said, this shouldn't discourage you from submitting your voice if you're interested in a custom setting. If you have any concerns, we can test the plugins to see if they function correctly on your machine before you commit to any purchases.

Can I Hear My Custom Preset Sound Before Buying? 

Yes, you can review the custom preset sound before purchasing the setting. To get started, please fill out the form and send me an audio sample of your voice following the provided instructions. Once I receive your recording for processing, I will let you know if the audio quality needs improvement. Certain issues can affect the processing and enhance the audio quality.

If your recording requires improvement, I will provide suggestions to help you identify and resolve any issues before asking you to resubmit the enhanced audio. Conversely, if your audio quality is sufficient for processing, you will receive a free sample of your custom-tuned processed sound for review, with no obligation to purchase.

If necessary, we can modify the processed sound based on your feedback. Once you approve the final sound, you will have the option to purchase the custom setting, which can be installed onto your machine so that you can use it every time you record.

Real-Time vs. Post-Processing? 

Real-time processing refers to applying equalization (EQ), compression, and other effects while you are recording. In contrast, post-processing means that these effects are applied to the audio file after it has been recorded. Generally, real-time processing is beneficial for situations like live streaming or making video calls, such as on Zoom.

The debate between real-time and post-processing frequently arises in discussions about the Universal Audio Apollo line of audio interfaces. The Apollo interfaces come equipped with onboard DSP (Digital Signal Processing), allowing plugin processing to occur in real-time on the unit itself. This design frees up your computer’s CPU to handle other tasks. In contrast, other audio interfaces, such as the Focusrite Scarlett, lack this onboard DSP, which means you have to rely on your computer’s CPU for signal processing. This can introduce latency, resulting in a noticeable delay in milliseconds. Additionally, real-time processing can also be achieved using hardware processors like the DBX286s.

So when is it worth the extra investment to choose Universal Audio's Apollo platform for your voice-over studio? Here’s my suggestion:

If real-time effects processing is a priority for your voice work, the UA Apollo platform may justify the higher cost.

It's important to note that plugins for the UA platform are proprietary and designed to take full advantage of real-time processing capabilities. The pricing for these plugins often falls within the moderate to expensive range, while there is a wider price variation for non-UAD plugins. Additionally, the UA interface itself tends to be moderately expensive compared to other available options.

Therefore, if real-time effects processing is not essential for your work, you can achieve comparable, professional-quality sound with a non-UA Apollo platform at a lower investment.

Lastly, Universal Audio's Apollo line is not the only option that offers onboard DSP; other manufacturers, such as RME, Antelope Audio, and Apogee, also provide this feature, though some may have limitations in the variety of available effects.

What's Included In The Custom Setting? 

If you decide to purchase the custom processing setting, you'll gain access to several valuable features included in the package. Here's a list of what the custom setting components entail:

1. **One Custom Preset Setting**: This is the final adjustment based on the sound you approve.

2. **Preset File Setup and Installation**: Your package includes this service. Additionally, I am available for further assistance via phone or video if needed, ensuring you can get your custom processing setting up and running on your system.

3. **Four Sound Strength Levels**: The setting offers four different styles based on strength levels: Standard, Maximum, Light, and Tone-Only. Each of these strength level options are explained further in the following section.

4. **One Revision of the Custom Setting**: This revision can be made using the same microphone and plugins as the original setting and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Additional consulting services can be included in the package for additional fees. These services can cover room acoustics suggestions, equipment purchase advice, engineering techniques, and more. For more information on consulting services, please refer to the provided link.

Please note that plugins used for the custom setting are purchased separately.

Strength Levels / Will It Work With All Types Of Reads? 

You might be wondering if the preset will work with different reading styles. For example, will it deliver an improved sound for a soft, detailed audiobook passage versus a loud, in-your-face auto commercial? The answer is yes! As long as your recording level is correct, your custom setting will optimize your sound. Additionally, the strength level package (referenced above) is designed to provide you with all the tools you need to impress your clients, exceed expectations, and stand out from your competitors. Below is a detailed explanation of what each strength level offers and accomplishes.

**Standard Strength Level Version of Your Custom Setting**
This version is suitable for most situations. It provides clear, authentic, and polished sound for your voice recording.

**Maximum Strength Level Version of Your Custom Setting**
This version features increased compression, resulting in a more energetic and punchy sound. It offers a "broadcast" type of quality, which may be ideal for dynamic, powerful, and energetic reads.

**Light Strength Level Version of Your Custom Setting**
This version uses about half the compression of the Maximum Strength Level. The sound remains more natural while still polished, making it a great choice for delicate and intimate deliveries.

**Tone-Only Strength Level Version of Your Custom Setting**
This version includes frequency balancing but has no compression. It might be a good option if a client requests an "unprocessed" recording. The Tone-Only strength level provides an "unprocessed" sound while ensuring the EQ balancing optimizes your recording.

Requests for modifications, alternatives, and special effects are available upon request (additional fees may apply).