Remote Audio Voice Recording During The COVID-19 Lockdown, Part 3: Comparing Source Connect Now, ipDTL, & Session Link Pro

by Bob Kirschner

In my previous post Remote Audio Voice Recording Part 2 I took a look at the top two platforms for remote voiceover connections in the audio post industry: ISDN and Source Connect. In today’s post I will do a similar comparison on what I’m referring to as my ‘Group 2’ platforms: Source Element’s Source Connect Now, ipDTL and Session Link Pro.

As a reminder, these are the remote technologies I’m writing about, and how I am grouping them for comparison purposes:

Group 1 - Highest Audio Quality

• ISDN

• Source Connect

Group 2 - Very Good Quality (Google OPUS codec)

• Source Connect Now

• ipDTL

• Session Link Pro

Group 3 - Acceptable Quality (standard audio over IP)

• Skype

• Uberconference

The three ‘Group 2’ platforms have many things in common, but the most important point is that these are all based on the open-source codec developed by Google, the Google Opus codec. Opus supports a wide range of bit rates and sample rates, making it very flexible to implement. And the audio quality of its compression is very good. So, as far as audio quality is concerned, these three platforms can be considered practically identical (assuming the connection settings are the same).

What makes these technologies different? The major differences are price and features. I’ll start with an overview for each platform:

Source Connect Now is a free platform with much fewer features than the others. It connects two parties, and lets the user do in-app recording. A registered Source Connect user can invite anyone else to connect. Easy and straightforward.

ipDTL is subscription-based, and the basic subscription cost is $80 annually for an individual. Costs increase depending on the features you need, and there are many amazing features available! ipDTL supports multiple parties (up to 5 simultaneous connections), telephone number dialing, ISDN compatibility, video connections, and in-app audio mixing and recording. An all-in subscription is in the neighborhood of $500-$600 annually. Their custom browser provides and excellent user interface. And they have an excellent FaceBook group for support from ipDTL and users. One down side to note - registered users can only invite other registered (paid) users unless your subscription plan includes guest invitations, which is an additional cost.

Session Link Pro is also subscription-based. This platform is widely used in Europe but is not used much in the U.S. Cost annually is 200 Euros (about $228 USD). They have a Recording package which connects up to three parties and includes features like in-app recording and MIDI support (a benefit for remote musical collaborations). They also have a separate Conferencing package which connects up to four parties but at a lower bit rate. Video is supported in both packages. The user interface is excellent.

Now let’s take a look at some specifics to see how these platforms compare:

App/Browser Support

The Google Opus codec is supported by a few different browsers. But to use these remote connection platforms Google Chrome is required for full support. ipDTL has developed their own custom browser (free for Mac and Windows) which is recommended for their platform. Generally, desktop and laptops are fully supported, but tablets and mobile devices are not.

Audio Quality: Bit Rate & Sample Rate

All platforms support 48K Sample Rate. So It’s the Bit Rate that determines the overall quality of the connection. All platforms support multiple bit rates, and you should use the maximum available bit rate unless you don’t have the fastest internet speed, in which case you can connect with a lower bit rate. So what are the maximum bit rates?

• Source Connect Now - 256 kbps per channel in mono and stereo

• ipDTL - 260 kbps in mono, 320 kbps in stereo (which means 160 kbps per channel in stereo)

• Session Link Pro - 256 kbps in mono, 320 kbps in stereo (which means 160 kbps per channel in stereo)

How Many Parties Can Connect?

While Source Connect Now allows two parties to connect (user and one guest), Session Link Pro in Dual Mono provide connections for the user and two guests. But ipDTL stands out here - with their Gold subscription the registered user can connect with four guests. This allows for a scenario where a studio or producer/engineer can host a podcast or interview recording, and send invitations out to four guests to join. Additionally (and incredibly), the producer/engineer will have access to the isolated audio from each connected guest. The isolated tracks can be combined later for mixing and post production. Session Link Pro also offers this same access to isolated audio for their guests.

Guest Invitations

Connecting with ‘guests’ (non-registered people) who you’d like to record is a common thing to do. Both Source Connect Now and Session Link Pro allow connections to guests. But as I mentioned above, ipDTL doesn’t allow guest invitations unless you pay more for this service, called ‘Send A Link’. You can connect with any other paid ipDTL user no problem, but if you want to connect with a guest you’ll need to double your subscription cost: If you have the $80 subscription (Bronze) it will cost you $80 additional to ‘Send A Link’.

So in summary, I will say without a doubt that ipDTL is the most feature-rich and flexible platform of this group. From a studio or producer point of view, allowing you to record a host and four guests with isolated audio is really incredible. ipDTL covers pretty much any need you may have, including adding a dial-out telephone feature, and ISDN compatibility. Their support is excellent as well. For someone with a career in audio post, ipDTL’s service is well worth the cost. For someone just starting out in remote session work, Source Connect Now is a very good platform that is free and easy to use. Session Link Pro, while not having much presence in the U.S., seems to have some features more tailored to musicians and group conferencing. But the cost is perhaps a bit higher than a similar level of service at ipDTL.

That’s a wrap for my ‘Group 2’ comparison. In my next post I’ll discuss voiceover recording using consumer conference connection platforms like Skype. Stay tuned!

Remote Audio Voice Recording During The COVID-19 Lockdown

by Bob Kirschner

The Corona Virus stay-at-home rules have drastically impacted our audio post production industry. Without the ability to gather together in a recording studio, group voice recordings that rely on multiple people interacting simultaneously need to make use of remote audio (and video) technologies to connect people in real time while recording the audio tracks. Voiceovers, narration and podcast recordings are the common types of recordings that are taking place. These recordings are done by both professional voice actors as well as non-professionals. There are a number of different remote platforms available, of varying audio quality. Some platforms lend themselves to professional use while other platforms are more suited to non-professionals for things such as internal business use and podcast purposes. In this and a series of future articles, I will describe and compare the various remote technologies that audio and voiceover professionals are using to record from their homes. I’ll go into the techniques involved to ensure the best audio quality, and cover options that allow non-professionals the ability to get their audio recorded with minimal technical issues.

I’ll start with a summary of the most commonly used platforms for remote audio voice recording.

1. ISDN - Historically this has been the most commonly used technology for broadcast-quality audio connections. But in the past decade ISDN usage has seriously declined, and has been mostly replaced by internet-based technologies. ISDN requires copper telephone lines (it doesn’t work on fiber) which are being phased out by communications companies, and is very expensive for companies to maintain. The COVID-19 situation has definitely increased the speed of its decline and as such, it doesn’t appear the professional audio community will be using ISDN much longer.

2. Source Connect - Created by Source Elements, this proprietary broadcast-quality remote technology has become the industry standard for audio and voice professionals. There are a few different ‘flavors’ of Source Connect, but all versions require that each connected party purchase their own Source Connect license. The technical setup is somewhat involved, but it allows users to connect to other users while also recording audio on their computer workstation. For professional voiceover actors working from home, Source Connect offers the highest-level platform for remote audio quality.

3. Source Connect Now - Also created by Source Elements, this free remote platform uses Google’s OPUS open-source codec. Users can register for an account, then invite anyone else to connect via their Google Chrome browser. This free platform only supports a connection for two parties, one of which typically is the audio engineer handling the recording, the other is usually the voice talent. All audio is transmitted via Google Chrome browser.

4. ipDTL - Meaning “IP Down The Line”, this platform, also based on Google’s OPUS codec, has probably become the most commonly used remote platform during the COVID-19 shutdown. ipDTL is a paid subscription service, and works via a browser or their stand-alone application. Their feature-rich platform includes professional features like on-board recording, audio playback during connections, the ability to connect up to four parties, ISDN connections, and telephone service, some of which are available at an additional cost. I’ll be going into this platform in more detail in a later article.

5. Session Link Pro - This remote platform is more commonly used in Europe. It’s also based on Google’s OPUS codec, and has a feature-set similar to ipDTL.

6. Skype - A household name primarily used for video conferencing. But also used in the professional audio community to allow remote parties to connect in to recording sessions for listening and providing direction. Skype audio quality is not great, but since this is a free platform it is an option to easily allow non-professionals to record a group-style podcast by connecting in conjunction with an audio engineer who can record the audio.

7. Uberconference - This is a remote conferencing platform that is a replacement for a traditional telephone conference service, and supports video connections. It’s a low-cost subscription plan that offers unlimited calls and an unlimited number of connections to each call. The audio quality is similar to Skype, and is another option to easily allow non-professionals to record a group-style podcast by connecting in conjunction with an audio engineer who can record the audio.

If we want to group the above platforms into similar types for audio quality comparison purposes, I would do it as follows:

Group 1 - Best Audio Quality

ISDN

Source Connect

Group 2 - Very Good Quality (Google OPUS codec)

Source Connect Now

ipDTL

Session Link Pro

Group 3 - Acceptable Quality (standard audio over IP)

Skype

Uberconference

That about wraps up my summary of the current remote platforms for voice recording. Stay tuned for follow up articles that compare the features within each of these groups; for a deep dive into ipDTL; and for a look at what equipment I recommend and how to get the best sound out of your home recording.

Private Skype Voice Over Classes

The voice over industry is booming with more opportunities for voice artists than ever before. Those opportunities are coming from all over the United States. At The Voice Shop, we offer a wide variety of classes that cover virtually every facet of the voice over industry. Our classes aren’t just targeted to new artists, many seasoned professionals find that voice over courses and lessons help to polish their persona and keep up to date with the latest industry trends. Here at The Voice Shop, we understand that as a busy professional you may not be able to attend courses in person, and because of that we offer private voice over lessons through Skype.

Benefits of Private Skype Lessons

One on one private lessons with our seasoned voice over coaches can prove most beneficial. From the comfort of your own home, a hotel room or our private offices, you’ll learn the tips and tricks that have made our coaches popular and successful voice artists. More benefits include:

• Coaches will focus their full attention on you

• Hone in on developing your strengths

• Ask specific questions and practice various disciplines

• Work at your own speed

• You choose the direction of and techniques taught at each lesson

We work with many commercial clients who search for voice over talent on a consistent basis. With clients such as: UNICEF, Mastercard, Mercedes Benz, Calvin Klein, NBC, NBA, ESPN, Telemundo and Sony we are always looking for and casting talented voice over artists. Private lessons aren’t the only online option we offer, check out our webinar options below.

Call to Schedule Your Private Skype Lesson Today!

Whether you are a seasoned voice over professional or just beginning your career, our courses are designed to boost your VO skills and technique. Our instructors and coaches are all industry professionals who want to help you become a successful VO artist. Sign up for one of our elite voice over courses today to successfully launch your professional career. Or simply call 212-213-9487 for your free consultation!

Voice Over Schools in New York

Have you been considering a career in voice over but fear you lack the skill necessary to be successful? A New York voice over school could be just what you are looking for. Finding the right school for you could be tricky. How do you know what to look for and what classes would be valuable for the professional direction you intend to take? We’ve compiled a guide to choosing the right New York voice over school.

What to Look For

When looking for a seasoned voice over school, there are several things you’ll want to ensure are available to you. Here are the top things to look for:

• Courses are for all levels: You’ll need to make sure you have the fundamentals of the industry and that class material isn’t more than you can handle. As your skill level improves, more in-depth classes, honing your skills, will be needed.

• Private lessons: Occasionally, you may need individual direction or tips for recording. The ability to have a private session will be crucial.

• Webinar or internet classes: This may not seem like a deciding factor when you’re just starting out as you have lots of spare time. However, once you become a busy professional, internet classes will be convenient.

• Integrated services: Combining voice over classes with a premier audio studio will provide valuable guided recording time.

If you are looking for world class voice over classes from industry professionals, sign up for one of our elite voice over courses today! Successfully launch your professional career today. We also provide a free consultation to our new clients wherein you can ensure we have the courses you are looking for. Working under CMD, we have the ability to offer our clients integrated services, combining premier recording services and elite training. A combination that is unrivaled.

Begin Your Lucrative VO Career Today!

Voice Over is a billion dollar industry and growing stronger every day. At the Voice Shop, we are committed to helping you reach your dreams. We have consistently trained and then cast thousands of voice over artists with high profile companies. We not only provide highly effective voice over training classes, we also teach you all about the industry and how to become a sought after artist. Our coaches and teachers are all industry professionals with years of valuable voice over experience. Call today at 212-213-9487!

Voice Over Jobs NYC

Jobs in the voice over industry can be difficult to come by. Working with someone with connections is proving to be the way to become successful. While hiring an agent is certainly a possibility, it isn’t always necessary to becoming a popular voice over artist. In addition to our comprehensive voice over voice over classes, we work under CMD and hundreds of high profile companies who are always looking for talented voice over artists.

What Can the Voice Shop Do for You?

As one of the first audio production companies to post talent demos on the internet for easier talent selection, our mother company CMD is the #1 company in the industry to integrate voice over technology. With clients such as UNICEF, Mastercard, Mercedes Benz, Telemundo, Sony and many more, we have the unique opportunity to cast hundreds of our artists into commercial voice over gigs.

Whether you work exclusively with CMD or choose to branch out on your own, the skills you learn here will be invaluable. That knowledge and industry experience obtained from The Voice Shop professionals will provide you with a competitive advantage in a cut-throat industry.

What Types of Jobs are Available?

Voice over artists are in high demand in our digital world. From radio and podcasting to anime and virtual reality, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of the most popular voice over jobs on the market:

• Automated Dialog Replacement

• Anime

• Audiobooks

• Cartoons/Animation

• Commercials

• E-Learning

• Internet

• Radio

• Telephone and IVR Jobs

• Video Gaming

A majority of these jobs, you probably hadn’t even considered as being in the voice over industry. Wherever there is technology and innovation, there is sure to be a need for talented voice over artists.

Choose the Voice Shop today!

The Voice Shop offers courses on creating your professional voice over voice and persona. With billions of dollars in the voice over industry, now is the time to develop your lucrative voice over career. Along with our on-site classes, we offer dozens of online courses designed for the convenience of the busy professional. Working with CMD, your voice over career is right at your fingertips. Call 212-213-9487 to get started today!

Best Voice Over Classes in NYC

How do you best prepare yourself for a profitable career in voice over? Just like any other career, becoming a successful voice over talent takes training and natural skill. The Voice Shop specializes in training and helping you develop the skills crucial to becoming a voice over pro.

Our comprehensive list of classes cover everything from technique, tips for teens, auditions and demo recording. We work with many commercial clients who search for voice over talent on a consistent basis. With clients such as: UNICEF, Mastercard, Mercedes Benz, Calvin Klein, NBC, ESPN, Telemundo and Sony we are always looking for and casting talented voice over artists.

Whether you are just beginning your voice over career or are an experienced professional, we offer classes to fit any skill level. Our teachers and coaches are all seasoned voice over professionals with years of valuable experience in this industry.

Our Most Popular Classes

No matter your skill level or your intended voice over professional direction, we have classes to fit your need.

• Fundamentals of Voice Over: This class is perfect for those people just starting out in the voice over industry. Our 2 ½ hour class will teach you about the voice over industry, allow you to record in the booth and receive a private evaluation.

• Intermediate Essentials: In this 3 part course intermediate essentials course, you will implement the techniques learned in the fundamentals class. You will also spend more time in the recording booth.

• Advanced Techniques: Applying what you learned in the first 2 classes, this is a more intensive class. With smaller class sizes and more booth time, this class will allow the more seasoned artist to hone their skills.

• Commercial Audition Techniques: Learn to refine your auditioning skills, align yourself with industry trends and direct your delivery. Master level course.

• Intro to Podcasting: Learn all about podcasting in this 2 ½ hour class. Learn about genre, format, engineering and marketing your podcast.

• Narration of Audiobooks: This 2 ½ hour class on audiobook narration will give you the skills, technique and practice for reading aloud.

• Animation Voice Over Workshop: This 3 hour comprehensive class will teach techniques for animation and video game voice overs. Learn about the industry, record in the booth and receive a private evaluation.

• Voice Over for Teens: Especially geared to teens, this 2 hour class will help the teen discover and create characters and learn the secrets of their favorite animated characters.

• Intro to Spanish Voice Overs: Our 3 hour Spanish voice over class will cover an industry overview, finding your authentic voice, an evaluation and proper mic techniques.

• So, You Want to Be an Influencer?: This 3 hour course will give you a good overview of social media platforms, give you the skills to develop a following and teach you how to be true online influencer.

• Subtle Self Promotion...In Socks: In this FREE seminar, learn multiple ways to promote yourself while staying inside your comfort zone.

• Private Lessons: Customized to your specific needs, your private session can include: helpful critiques for an upcoming audition, take more advanced training, or whatever you need. Available via skype or in studio.

• Create Your Demo: Privately record and produce your voice over demo under the direction and supervision of our talented coaches and sound engineers.

Not sure which class best fits your needs? No problem, we offer free consultations in which we will give you voice over guidance and direction, suggesting the correct classes to fit your skill level and needs.

Become a Pro with The Voice Shop

Whether you are a seasoned voice over professional or just beginning your career, our courses are designed to boost your VO skills and technique. Our teachers and coaches are all industry professionals and want to help you become a successful VO artist. Sign up for one of our elite voice over courses today to successfully launch your professional career. Or simply call 212-213-9487 for your free consultation today!

NY Podcast

NY Podcast

Starting a podcast can be a difficult process if you don’t know where to start. From buying equipment to distributing on podcast platforms, there is a bit to learn before you create and launch your podcast. Luckily, there are a lot of resources in NY to help you learn If you live in New York and are looking for a way to learn more about podcasting, you’ve come to the right place.

The Voice Shop is now offering courses to help you start and grow your own podcast. You will get the best information on everything revolving around podcasts including, voice, equipment, recording, and editing. If you want to get the best quality sound for your podcast and make sure it reaches an audience, you can learn a lot through our courses. Here are some tips to starting a podcast in New York.

Starting Your Podcast

The first steps to making a podcast is figuring out everything you need to record a podcast. The first ingredient is definitely a computer or laptop. There you’ll be able to perform the actual recording, editing, and distribution of your podcast. You’ll need recording equipment, recording software, and access to the Internet. Once you have everything you’ll also want to make sure you have a quiet room to record in.

Of course, these are just the basics to what you’ll need. You also need a topic, audience for your show, and a distribution platform. The topic should be something you are knowledgeable and passionate about. This will make it easy for you to record episodes regularly. You also need to know where you are going to post episodes so they are distributed through all the channels.

Building an Audience

The most important aspect to your podcast aside from making it is your listeners. Every podcast needs an audience and knowing the right techniques to build an audience is crucial. You need to know what methods to follow in order to maximize your reach and gain loyal listeners.

This can be the most difficult part about podcasting and it never ends. Podcasters are constantly trying new ways to build their audience and make sure they keep their loyal following. Tracking your growth is also important so you get an idea of the value of your podcast. Monetization is going to rely on a steady audience. If you want to earn money through your podcast, building an audience is the best way to do so.

Sign Up for Podcasting Classes Today!

The Voice Shop offers great classes that will give you a clear understanding on creating podcasts. We provide industry overviews, podcast engineering, and marketing and growth. If you are ready to start your own podcast and make sure it makes an impact, don’t hesitate to get in contact with The Voice Shop. You can sign up for Podcast Classes here!