Realistically, you can use almost any microphone for voiceover recording, but the big boys have a handful of favorites. The Electro-Voice RE-20 is the darling of talk radio, while several imported large-diaphragm condenser mics are popular in Hollywood. Consider borrowing or renting a nice microphone for your next recording. The higher quality will impress your clients, and it will be easier on your ears too. There are several models available for less than $100 today. Add one to your collection. Even at these bargain prices, you won't be disappointed.

In addition to the microphone, you'll need a windscreen to protect against breath blasts called "plosives." Usually produced from the letters P, B and T, these vocal pops briefly overload the microphone and create distortion. Simply providing a windscreen will virtually eliminate this problem. Foam windscreens are available at your local Electronic Shack. You'll find the more professional hoop-type windscreens at your favorite online music or production retailer. You can even build one from an embroidery hoop and some pantyhose.

Slating your voiceover recording will make it easier to edit. Since there are very few visual cues when editing audio, some simple verbal reminders will make it easier for you to navigate. Have the vocal talent preface the performance with the project, section and take number prior to recording. This doesn't have to be a rigid thing, just a verbal bookmark. Later, if you need to assemble an edit from multiple takes, it will be much easier to identify good and bad content. You can give simple visual clues by shooting the talent's (or your) hands ticking off between takes. Even if it's dark, it's better than shooting with the lens cap on, at least you can see that there is video there.

The way you hear the copy in your head may or may not be the way the client intended. That's why it's good to record multiple versions of various phrases, using different vocal inflection. Don't get carried away with this idea - just concentrate on troublesome phrases, slogans and tag lines. This gives you options after the session and can save a great deal of grief if the client had something else in mind.

Professional voiceovers usually involve a producer to keep things on track and insure a high-quality recording. If you're not using an independent producer for your session, a second opinion may be in order. Once you've edited the voiceover, have someone listen to the project with an objective ear. Does the copy make sense? Does the structure guide the listener cleanly through the recording? Are there any words or phrases that are difficult to understand? Answers to these questions will help you step back from the project, rethink your edits and tighten the performance.