Special Reports  by Susan Berkley

How to Produce a Killer Voiceover Demo Tape
copyright 2000, The Great Voice Company | All Rights Reserved

If you are thinking of breaking into voiceovers, your demo tape is an essential marketing tool. Not having one is like an actor trying to get work without a head shot. You cannot work without it. Here are some guidelines to help you make sure the money you invest in your demo is well spent.

Just as models include tear sheets in their portfolios, established voice talent make a short (about 2 minute) compilation tape of current work. They duplicate this on audio cassette and send the tapes to producers, casting directors, and clients who keep them on file for future consideration. Often, talent are hired right from their tape. Sometimes, they must audition for the job.

Here's how a beginner with no prior experience can make a competitive demo:

No one wants to work with a beginner. To break into voiceovers you must produce a tape that sounds like you have worked before. The samples you include on your demos you make should sound like they are actual spots that could have been on the air.

Start saving some money. A competitive tape must be produced in a professional recording studio which has the proper background music and sound effects to put behind your voice. Studio time is expensive. Costs average $50-$100 an hour or more, depending on the facility and location. It can take as long as 6 hours (or more) for a beginner to produce a tape, including recording, editing , music selection and mixing. Once the tape is produced, you'll also have to pay for duplication and mailing costs, which can be as much as $2 per tape.

Don't make your demo tape before you are ready. Find a coach who will help you build your skills before you make the investment in the studio. If there is no voiceover coach in your area, ask about our teleclass and long distance coaching.

Shop around. Studio rates are competitive. Often you can negotiate a lower rate by offering to record during off hours. Some studios even offer special package deals for voice talent. This is a good thing. Studio costs can easily escalate out of control!

• There are two types of recording studios: those who specialize in recording music (recording singers, bands, record projects) and those who provide services for ad agencies and audio/video production houses. You want a studio which is used by ad agencies. They'll have lots of experience in working with voice talent and should have everything you need.
  
• Ask about background music. Choose a studio with a large library of background music and sound effects. Some studios charge extra for music (they have to pay licensing costs) but some will throw the music in for free as part of a package.

Strive for variety on your demo. Show them the full range of what you are capable.

Check out the studio before you invest. Go there during the day. Is it soundproof? Are the people pleasant? Will you feel comfortable there? Ask for references from other talent. Have the studio play you samples of other talent demo tapes they've made.

Don't duplicate more than 50 tapes at a time. After you've sent out your first 50 tapes and gotten feedback, you'll know whether or not you'll have to go back into the studio for some fine-tuning! Good luck, and let us know how you do!