Gear Matters, But Skills Seal the Deal in Voiceover!

Let’s get something straight: good recording gear does matter. But it should never hog the spotlight. What actually books you the job? Spoiler alert—it’s not your mic, your interface, or the latest shiny plugin.

It’s you.

Your performance.

Your interpretation.

The way you bring a script to life and connect with the listener.

That’s what makes a client hit the “hire” button.

The Role of Gear in Voiceover

Now, don’t get me wrong—gear still has its place. A quiet space with low floor noise and a reliable setup sets you up for success.

Here’s a combo I often recommend for new and intermediate talents:

Mic: Rode NT-1

Interface: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

Headphones: Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

These won’t break the bank, but they deliver solid, professional results.

And here’s my friendly PSA: skip the USB mics. They tend to sound tinny, pick up every plosive, and amplify room noise like crazy. If you’re serious about voiceover, invest in gear that helps you sound like a pro from the start.

Treat Your Space Like a Studio

Even the best mic won’t save you in a noisy, echoey room. Luckily, you don’t need to spend thousands on studio construction—just a few smart moves:

Start with soft surfaces. Blankets, curtains, and rugs do wonders for reducing reflections. Hard floors and bare walls are your worst enemies.

Treat first reflections. Hang acoustic panels or thick blankets on the walls directly to the left, right, and behind your mic position. This keeps your voice from bouncing around.

Watch for corners. Corners exaggerate low frequencies (boomy sound). A simple bass trap or even a tightly packed blanket in the corner can help.

DIY vocal booth. A walk-in closet with clothes on the rack can be a surprisingly effective recording space. No shame in starting there—it works.

A treated space = cleaner recordings, less editing, and a more professional sound without fighting your room.

Where Your Focus Really Belongs

At the end of the day, gear and room treatment can only take you so far. The real magic in this industry comes from:

Script performance – understanding the rhythm, pacing, and tone

Technique – controlling your breath, articulation, and consistency

Interpretation – finding the story and meaning behind every line

That’s what gets you callbacks. That’s what lands repeat clients. That’s what grows a career.

Ready to Elevate Your Craft?

If you’re serious about developing your skills, coaching is the best investment you can make. Gear enhances your sound, and a treated room keeps it clean—but your skills are what truly sell it.

👉 My team and I at UVT Coaching would love to help you grow in this craft. Visit our VO training course page on this website.

I’ll be around for any questions. Let’s get you sounding—and performing—like a pro. 🎧