A production-audio Tech Scout at Viva Studio Rentals tests the planned microphones, set position, equipment noise, and room conditions.
Bring the audio lead, script, shot list, set plan, microphones, recorder, headphones, and any playback equipment required for the test.
Viva includes ten sound blankets in the base studio package. Microphones, recorders, and an audio crew are not included.
Test the complete recording setup during the Tech Scout and record the approved settings for the production date.
What to Test Before Booking
Before booking, test each required audio source separately in its planned set position.
- Dialogue: test the planned microphone, framing, movement, wardrobe, and monitoring position.
- Room tone: record the room with the set and equipment in their planned positions.
- Playback: test the required level and check whether it affects recorded dialogue or other live sound.
- Equipment noise: listen with cameras, lights, computers, HVAC, and set equipment running.
Run the Test in the Planned Set Position
Listen for traffic, HVAC, equipment fans, clothing noise, and reflections before recording a take.
- Run a practical test of the primary microphone in the position required by the frame and movement.
- Monitor a complete test take and record any reflection, clothing, equipment, or outside-noise problem.
- Viva’s stage is sound-treated, not soundproof. Run a practical test of the room before booking.
- Before booking, test the ten included sound blankets in proposed positions. Arrange additional treatment separately and confirm its placement with the studio.
Record the Room’s Limits
Document outside noise, room reflections, equipment noise, and any setup that could interrupt a required take.
Record the Test Results
Write down microphone models and positions, recorder settings, monitoring position, blanket placement, room tone, and unresolved noise risks.
- Dialogue test: save a representative take from the planned microphone position.
- Noise test: note HVAC, equipment, traffic, and other sound heard during the test.
- Blanket test: record the positions that helped and any additional treatment the production must supply.
- Decision log: assign each open audio item to the production sound lead, producer, or post-production owner.
Production Audio Tech Scout Checklist
Leave the Tech Scout with the microphone plan, tested set position, monitoring plan, blanket placement, room-tone sample, known noise risks, and the person responsible for each open item.
Book a production-audio Tech Scout to test the planned microphones, set position, equipment noise, monitoring, and room tone. Schedule a free Tech Scout.