Reducing "nasally" sound

[Macy]

We've recorded an audio commentary for a video using Cool Edit 2000. It came out sounding a bit nasally, almost like the person talking had a cold. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to maybe reduce this? We've tried upping the bass, or reducing the treble, but so far it isn't quite working. Any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks.

[Heavens to Betsy 2]

Too much low bass for voiceover is "rumbly." Too much mid-bass and low-midrange is "muddy," too much high-midrange is "harsh" or "sibilant" and too much treble is "glassy."

Nasally, honky sounds are from the midrange frequencies, generally between 1KHz and 3.5KHz. Try a high-Q parametric eq boost (20-100Hz wide if you don't go by Q) by about 12-20dB, and sweep until you find the problematic frequencies--essentially, the nasally sound will be blown out of proportion. Then, simply cut those same frequencies; use your judgement to find a balance between reducing those annoying frequencies and keeping the essence of the voiceover: while annoying, the nasally frequences are probably still vital to the overall clarity and presence.

Of course, if the announcer has a nasal voice, you won't be able to effectively fix the sound without seriously altering it.

[This message has been edited by Heavens to Betsy 2 (edited 09-12-2001).]

[Macy]

Thanks very much. I'll give that a try right away.