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Jeffrey Kafer · Posted: Sat Feb 28, 2009 7:37 pm Post subject: Audiobook demo question

I've got some great copy for my audiobook demo reel. But the secondary character is on the phone. Does it make sense to put a phone effect on those lines or should they be dry?
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Deirdre · Posted: Sat Feb 28, 2009 7:46 pm Post subject:

Think of it like this:
What would you like to hear?

When you're listening to an audiobook, do you like effects? or do you prefer just the reader?
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Jeffrey Kafer · Posted: Sat Feb 28, 2009 10:24 pm Post subject:

personally, I don't have a preference. I've heard so many audiobooks go both ways that neither bothers me. I'm just wondering if there's a "standard" when it comes to demos.
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Jeff
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Diane Havens · Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 6:04 am Post subject:

My gut feeling on audiobooks is that the reader should support the author's intent, involve the listener, and not distract. If an effect fits seamlessly into the style and mood of the book, and moves the story, not bringing attention to the reader himself, or the music, or whatever bells and whistles added. If this were the only effect used in the clip, it might stand out too much, but only you can judge. The only fully produced with music/fx et al I've done have been on the shorter side. Everything full novel length, just voice.
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Bruce · Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 8:49 am Post subject:

Anybody can add a sound effect to make a phone conversation sound tinny, but can you read a conversation to give us the feeling that your character is on the phone? That's what I think potential clients will be looking for.

I mean, can you give us the feeling that you're female when you're reading a woman's lines? You don't have to read in a falsetto, you just have to give us the subtle difference that helps us listeners believe. I think it's the same with a phone call. Let them add the bells and whistles if they wish.

B
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Gp · Guest

Perfect advice Bruce!

Jeffrey Kafer · Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 2:29 pm Post subject:

good advice, all. Turns out I found some better material that doesn't involve a phone.
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Jeff
http://JeffreyKafer.com
Voice-overload Web comic: http://voice-overload.com

louzucaro · Posted: Mon Mar 02, 2009 9:49 am Post subject:

Now you just have to get rid of the material that demands that you sound "handsome and taller" and you're all set!

Disclaimer: That comment was a jab at bad copy direction and in no way signifies any opinion of Kafer's looks or height.
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