Talking Book Productions' methodical but fluid process is designed to keep even the most complex project moving forward, while fully exploring creative and technical opportunities to enhance the recording's impact. Remaining in constant contact with you, we manage the details so that you can focus on the larger vision. Take a moment to review our services, and contact us to discuss what we can do for you.

Pre-Production

At TBP, we know that any project's success is determined long before anyone enters the studio. That's why we take time to focus on the big picture. After establishing the scope and schedule of the project, we work with you to flesh out its creative and technical requirements. During the pre-production phase, we outline the deadlines and milestones that will keep the project on track once production is underway.

Our pre-production phase also helps us get to know you. We recognize that each client is unique, and we'll tailor the process to suit your needs. If you want step-by-step technical or creative guidance, our staff will walk you through each detail. If you prefer a more laissez-faire approach, your producer will keep you informed and give you opportunities to provide feedback at important junctures.

No matter what your preferred communication style is, by the end of the pre-production phase we'll have established the basis for a productive, efficient working relationship.

Casting

Selecting from a wide pool of renowned actors, singers, and voiceover professionals, the TBP casting team finds the best talent to give voice to your content.

Imagine the voices of Broadway, television, and film bringing life to your words. Based in New York City, TBP has access to the country's most gifted vocal artists. Our extensive pool of in-house talent includes well known actors, singers, and voiceover professionals, offering a limitless range of vocal types and language skills.

Our casting team excels at selecting the right voice from this wealth of talent. At TBP, content drives the casting. Our staff reviews your material in detail and determines the most effective vocal style for the piece. Whether your recording demands precise, measured speech or a lively, animated tone, or whether you require a bilingual adult or a chorus of children, TBP will find the best match for your material.

Directing

Each recording session is overseen by a director experienced in the art of spoken-word recording. From a creative and technical standpoint, the director shapes the recording to reflect the client's vision for the project.

Any great performance requires skilled direction. TBP's directors, selected for their expertise in spoken-word recording, understand the intricacies of communicating the different varieties of content. Throughout the recording process, the director executes the client's vision, guiding the talent to vocalize the content expressively, appropriately, and in an engaging way. Equally important, the director ensures that the content is read accurately and in its entirety. Pronunciation, emphasis, cadence, and pacing are targeted for the correct audience.

Recording

The recording process is the heart of TBP's operation. All of our preparation and expertise coalesce in the studio. Once we assemble the right team members for your project, we put their skills into action in an impeccable recording environment.

TBP boasts eight fully equipped studios, five mastering stations, and fourteen editing stations. The size of our facilities means that we'll always have the capacity to handle your project and meet your deadlines.

Like our staff, our studios are devoted exclusively to spoken-word recordings. Our state-of-the-art equipment and acoustically superior studios create the optimal environment for TBP engineers to create the highest quality audio product. From microphone placement to overall acoustic design, our staff and technology work in tandem to produce flawless recordings—no matter how complex the project.

Music and Scoring

Whether you're recording an audio book that requires background music or an educational project that contains a sing-a-long, you've probably thought about the score. But even when music isn't the centerpiece of a recording, it adds depth, atmosphere, and interest. An effective score can mean the difference between a dry, lifeless piece and an engaging interpretation of the text.

TBP views music as complementary to many audio projects, and we maintain a large library of music suited to a variety of genres. Looking for more customization? We'll commission an original score from one of the composers on our staff. Whatever your needs, we'll make sure that music enhances your end product—not your budget.

Sound Design

Superior sound design doesn't call attention to itself. It flows organically from the content, subtly providing an ambiance for the recorded text. Sometimes a few prerecorded sound effects are sufficient; other times, designers must reinforce a narrative with a detailed soundscape. TBP's sound designers consistently create results that enrich the content at hand.

TBP's sound designers have unlimited access to our tens of thousands of prerecorded, customizable effects. But they also have the expertise to create effects expressly for your project through on-location sound recording.

Whether your project requires a few sound effects or an elaborate soundscape, our sound designers will devise creative, cost-effective solutions.

Quality Assurance

For nearly a century, TBP has built its reputation on the strength of its quality control (QC). We accept nothing less than a perfect match between the printed text and spoken word, and we've developed a rigorous, three-step process to ensure a flawless end product:

• Assembly Edit: First, our editors perform an individual review of each component of a recording—including voice, music, and sound design—to verify that all files are complete and pristine.
  
  
• Polishing: Once the technical elements of the recording are approved, our QC editors and educational supervisor scrutinize the assembled project's content, focusing on pacing, continuity, accuracy, and sound quality.
  
  
• Quality Control: As a final step, we perform a holistic review of the project. We check content word for word against the original script and evaluate the interplay between voice and sound design. With accuracy and technical quality verified, TBP's editors review the recording once again to ensure that it meets your requirements.

Mastering

Mastering is the process that fine-tunes and perfects the audio track. Mixing the various components with optimum balance, our technicians ensure that all of the different elements work together to reinforce the intent of the recording. With mixing complete, the project is formatted for the appropriate media delivery—whether it's audiocassette, CD, or the Internet.

Packaging and Design Services

Why hide a superior recording in a sub-standard package? Showcase your recording in an eye-catching package by TBP. Our custom packaging and design service ensures that your product makes an impact from the moment it's in the hands of consumers. We know your market, and we're adept at creating a package that will resonate with your customers.

Duplication Services

Once your customers experience a TBP-produced recording, don't be surprised if demand exceeds your supply. Simply let us know what your duplication needs are, regardless of how small or large. TBP provides high-quality audiocassette and CD duplication—with fast turnaround and competitive pricing.