There are two voicing options used in audio description, which are described below:
With this option, professional actors record the timed audio descriptions in soundproof booths. The actors are carefully chosen, so as to capture the tone and delivery that best complements the style of your program/video. For a series, we can arrange to use the same actor in an effort to maintain consistency in the vocals. Once the voiceover is recorded, the audio descriptions are thoroughly reviewed with the actors re-recording certain sections as needed.
The use of professional actors for voiceovers is most suitable for projects with big budgets, long timelines and where there is a need to convey different moods or emotions in order for the content to be truly effective.
Alternatively, synthesized speech uses software to produce the vocals needed for your project. This technique eliminates the need to spend time recording and editing. After the script is created by our expert description writers, it is then vocalized using a state-of-the-art machine that produces the synthesized speech word-for-word directly from the script. Unlike voiceover talent, the use of synthesized speech allows you to make your own decisions about variables such as the reading rate (WPM), tone and dialect. Overall, this is a viable option for those interested in having greater control over the final output as well as cutting time and costs.
The standard rate of speech for audio descriptions is 160 words per minute, however if you need the reading rate to be slower or faster, we can do that for you.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 253 million people worldwide were visually impaired as of October 2017. Certain federal laws exist that require various types of entities to make their content accessible to citizens with disabilities.
The 21st Century Communications & Video Accessibility Act
Under this act, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires the following broadcasters to provide 50 hours of audio description every calendar quarter for prime time and children’s programming:
Affiliates of the top 4 national broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC) located in the top 60 TV markets; The top 5 non-broadcast networks (USA, TNT, TBS, History Channel).
Rehabilitation Act – Section 508
Under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, all federal agencies must provide audio description for videos that contain visual information necessary for complete understanding.
While audio description is a requirement in most cases, organizations that offer this feature should feel proud in knowing that they are making a positive impact while also broadening their audience base. USA Studios would love to help you in accomplishing this.
USA Studios is proud to offer the most high-quality service for an affordable rate that companies of all sizes can afford. We have worked on every type of project so we’re experts at providing the most cost effective rates