Audiobook Production Audio Editing and Post-Production 2

Question 1

What does 'normalization' do to an audiobook audio file?

Accepted Answer

Adjusts the overall level so the highest peak reaches a target value

Answer

Normalization raises or lowers the entire file's gain so that the loudest peak hits a specified target level, commonly -3 dBFS for ACX delivery.

Question 2

What is a 'compressor' used for in audiobook post-production?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the dynamic range by lowering loud peaks

Answer

A compressor automatically reduces the gain of audio that exceeds a set threshold, evening out the loud and quiet passages for a more consistent listening experience.

Question 3

What is the ACX maximum noise floor requirement for audiobook audio files?

Accepted Answer

-60 dB RMS

Answer

ACX requires the noise floor—the background noise present in silence—to be at or below -60 dB RMS to ensure a quiet, professional-sounding recording.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a 'limiter' as the final stage in an audiobook mastering chain?

Accepted Answer

To prevent peaks from exceeding a set ceiling and causing clipping

Answer

A limiter acts as a hard ceiling, preventing any audio transient from exceeding a maximum level such as -3 dBFS, ensuring clean delivery without digital clipping.

Question 5

What does the term 'punch and roll' refer to in audiobook recording?

Accepted Answer

Re-recording from just before a mistake by punching in mid-sentence

Answer

Punch and roll allows the narrator to play back the recording, then seamlessly 'punch in' to re-record from a point just before an error, maintaining flow.

Audiobook Production Practice Test

Audiobook Production Practice Test

Audiobook Production Audio Editing and Post-Production 2