Cubase 9.5 Tutorial: Voice Over Post Processing Using Stock Plugins

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to effectively post-process voice overs in Cubase 9.5 using stock plugins. This guide will provide you with practical tips and techniques to enhance your voice recordings, making them sound professional. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, these steps will help you achieve a polished audio output.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Project

• Open Cubase and create a new project or open an existing one.
• Import your voice over audio track by dragging it into the project window.
• Make sure to set your project’s sample rate to match the recording for optimal sound quality.

Step 2: Noise Reduction

• Select the audio track you want to process.
• Use the DeNoiser plugin to eliminate background noise.
  • Go to the Insert Effects section.
  • Add the DeNoiser from the list of stock plugins.
  • Adjust the Threshold and Reduction settings to minimize unwanted noise without affecting vocal clarity.

Step 3: Equalization

• Apply an EQ to enhance the voice quality.
  • Add the Channel EQ plugin to your track.
  • Use the following settings for vocal clarity:
    • Boost around 3-5 kHz for presence.
    • Cut frequencies below 80 Hz to remove rumble.
    • Slightly boost around 10-12 kHz for brightness.
• Make adjustments while listening to ensure the vocal sits well in the mix.

Step 4: Compression

• Add a Compressor to control the dynamic range of the voice.
  • Choose the Compressor from the insert effects.
  • Set the Ratio to around 3:1 or 4:1.
  • Adjust the Threshold so that the compressor engages during louder parts.
  • Set the Attack to 5-10 ms for a natural sound and the Release to around 50-100 ms.
• Listen to the track in context to ensure the voice remains dynamic yet balanced.

Step 5: Adding Reverb

• Introduce a subtle Reverb effect to give the voice a sense of space.
  • Add the Reverb plugin to the audio track.
  • Use a small room setting with a low mix level to avoid overpowering the vocal.
• Adjust the settings to create a natural ambiance without making the voice sound distant.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

• Listen to the entire track and make necessary adjustments.
• Pay attention to the overall mix and ensure the voice stands out clearly against the background music or sound effects.
• Use automation on the vocal track to enhance specific phrases or sections if needed.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively post-process voice overs in Cubase 9.5 using stock plugins. Start with noise reduction, then move through EQ, compression, and reverb to achieve a professional sound. Remember to listen critically and make adjustments based on the context of your project. With practice, you'll refine your skills and create high-quality voice recordings. Happy mixing!