Plosives
Plosives are specific sounds in speech that can cause issues in voice recording, like 'p', 'b', 't', and 'k' sounds. When voice actors say these sounds into microphones, they can create unwanted popping noises that distract listeners. Being able to control these sounds is an important skill for voice actors, similar to how singers need to control their breathing. Voice actors often use tools like pop filters (protective screens in front of microphones) and specific speaking techniques to manage these sounds. You might also hear these referred to as "explosive consonants" or "stop consonants" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Mastered control of Plosives for clear, professional voice-over delivery
Trained other voice actors in Plosive management techniques
Recorded 200+ commercial spots with clean audio free of Plosives and other technical issues
Typical job title: "Voice Over Artists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Voice Over Artists
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you train others to handle plosives in their recordings?
Expected Answer: An experienced voice actor should explain their methods for teaching proper microphone technique, breathing exercises, and various tools like pop filters. They should also mention how they demonstrate the difference between correct and incorrect technique.
Q: What's your process for directing other voice actors when dealing with challenging scripts full of plosives?
Expected Answer: They should discuss their experience in coaching others, providing examples of how they break down difficult passages, and methods they use to help actors maintain quality while keeping natural delivery.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What techniques do you use to control plosives in your recordings?
Expected Answer: They should mention specific microphone positioning, use of pop filters, and techniques like speaking across rather than directly into the microphone.
Q: How do you handle scripts with many plosive sounds while maintaining natural delivery?
Expected Answer: Should explain their preparation process, including marking troublesome passages, practicing specific words, and maintaining flow while controlling problematic sounds.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are plosives and why are they important to control?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that plosives are sounds like 'p' and 'b' that can cause popping in recordings, and why controlling them is important for clear audio.
Q: What equipment do you use to manage plosives?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic equipment like pop filters and understand proper microphone positioning for minimizing plosive sounds.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of plosive sounds
- Use of pop filters
- Basic microphone technique
- Simple script reading
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced plosive control techniques
- Natural delivery while managing difficult sounds
- Quick adaptation to different script styles
- Basic coaching abilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and directing other voice actors
- Complex script mastery
- Technical understanding of audio recording
- Project management skills
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate basic plosive control
- No knowledge of proper microphone technique
- Lack of understanding about pop filters and their importance
- No experience with professional recording equipment
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