How to Prep Audio Assets for a Smooth VoiceOver or ADR Session
When it comes to ADR or VoiceOver work, the smoothest sessions begin long before anyone steps into the booth. Whether recording dialogue to picture or voicing a commercial script, preparation is the difference between a productive day and a costly delay.
This guide covers essential prep tips—what to send, how to format it, and which tools are typically used—based on professional studio workflows. The goal: get the best performance on the day, without wasting time resolving avoidable tech issues.
Why Proper Prep Matters
Every ADR or VO session is a collaboration between client, performer, and engineer. Poorly labelled files, mismatched formats, or missing media can introduce unwanted delays. Clear, consistent preparation helps:
Ensure correct cueing and timing
Streamline communication during the session
Deliver cleaner, more efficient post-production workflows
It also gives actors the space they need to focus fully on performance—without interruptions from technical hurdles.
What to Send Before an ADR or VoiceOver Session
For VoiceOver:
Final script in a clean, readable layout (Word or PDF). If the delivery requires nuance, tone notes or emphasis guides can be added inline or as margin comments.
Pronunciation guide for unusual, branded, or foreign words.
Reference audio (optional) to match tone, pace, or direction from a previous take or campaign.
For ADR:
Picture lock video:
Visual material should contain burnt-in timecode (BITC) from the first frame. Preferred formats include Apple ProRes 422 or DNxHD for playback stability. H.264 is accepted but may need to be reviewed in advance to confirm real-time performance.
Embedded audio split:
Many studios prefer audio embedded within the video. For example, guide sync dialogue might be panned hard left and temp music/SFX panned hard right. Alternatively, supplying isolated WAV stems for sync sound, temp ADR, music and effects is common practice.
Cue sheets:
Studios use various cueing systems, including EdiPrompt, VoiceQ, ADR Master, or custom streamers within DAWs. When cueing with EdiPrompt, cue sheets exported from EdiCue in PDF format allow for seamless session prep. Regardless of the tool, cue sheets should include:
Character name
In/out timecodes
Line text
Direction or context if applicable
Original production audio:
Even if lines are being replaced, having the original location audio helps match tone, timing and pacing.
Technical Standards
Studios typically record at 24-bit / 48kHz in stereo WAV format.
For ADR recordings:
Boom mic is usually recorded to the left channel
Lavalier/clip mic to the right channel
Common microphones in professional ADR and VO workflows include:
Sennheiser MKH60 (shotgun)
DPA 4060 (lav)
Neumann U87 (ideal for close-mic vocal work)
Sessions are often run from Pro Tools Ultimate, with cueing handled via tools like EdiPrompt, VoiceQ, or ADR Master.
Remote Sessions: Source Connect and Zoom
Remote ADR and VO sessions are standard across the industry. Studios may offer sessions via Source Connect Pro, Source Connect Now, or Zoom, depending on the project needs.
Source Connect:
Studios using Source Connect often recommend a short line check ahead of the session to ensure everything is working correctly. This can take place a couple of days before the booking or on the morning of the session, depending on availability and complexity. It’s especially important when connecting from a new location or network that may involve firewall or port settings.
For sync accuracy, LTC (longitudinal timecode) may be sent down Channel 2 to keep picture and audio locked in real time. A wired internet connection is strongly advised for stability.
Zoom:
Used primarily for remote direction or supervision. Audio from participants is typically not recorded unless arranged in advance. Headphones are advised for all remote participants to avoid bleed and echo in the control room.
What a Studio-Ready Workflow Looks Like
Studios like Kore Sounds in Nottingham are equipped for both local and remote sessions, offering:
Dedicated ADR booths with broadcast-standard mic options
Engineers experienced in dialogue, sync, and delivery
Source Connect Pro with LTC support
Fast turnaround and secure file delivery
To learn more about how a professional ADR session works, visit: What Makes a Great ADR Session
Final Thoughts
The most successful recording sessions begin with clear prep. Knowing what to send—and how to send it—can eliminate technical barriers and keep the creative process flowing.
Studios may differ in the tools they use, so it’s always a good idea to confirm preferred formats ahead of time. A short checklist and an hour of prep today could save an afternoon of troubleshooting later.