De-esser
A de-esser is a common audio tool that sound professionals use to improve the quality of vocal recordings. It helps control harsh "s" and "sh" sounds that can be unpleasant to listen to. Think of it like an automatic volume control that only turns down these specific sharp sounds while leaving the rest of the voice natural. Sound engineers and audio producers regularly use this tool when working with voice recordings, podcasts, music, and broadcast material.
Examples in Resumes
Used De-esser and De-essing techniques to improve vocal clarity in podcast productions
Applied De-esser processing on voiceover recordings for commercial projects
Implemented advanced De-essing workflows for multi-track music productions
Typical job title: "Audio Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Audio Engineers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach de-essing in a complex project with multiple vocal tracks?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss managing multiple vocal tracks simultaneously, maintaining consistency across different voices, and balancing de-essing with overall sound quality without creating artifacts.
Q: Can you explain your troubleshooting process when de-essing isn't working as expected?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving skills, explaining how they identify issues like over-processing, unwanted side effects, and their approach to finding the right balance for different vocal characteristics.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing de-essing settings?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they adjust settings based on the speaker's voice type, recording quality, and project requirements, while maintaining natural sound.
Q: How do you integrate de-essing into your overall vocal processing chain?
Expected Answer: Should describe their typical workflow, explaining when they apply de-essing in relation to other vocal treatments and why.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of de-essing in audio production?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of controlling harsh sounds in vocals and when it's typically needed in production.
Q: What are the basic controls found on a de-esser?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic settings like threshold and frequency range, and their effects on the sound.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic operation of de-essers
- Understanding of vocal processing
- Simple troubleshooting
- Following established processing chains
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced de-essing techniques
- Working with different voice types
- Multiple track management
- Problem-solving processing issues
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex project management
- Training and supervising others
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Creating processing standards
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic audio signal flow
- Unable to hear problematic sibilance in audio
- Lack of experience with professional audio software
- No knowledge of vocal recording techniques
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