Running Live, Microphone Setup, and Semi-Real-Time Voice Tracking

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Running Live, Microphone Setup, and Semi-Real-Time Voice Tracking

PostedSeptember 2, 2024
UpdatedSeptember 6, 2024
Byaxisdj

Section 9: Running Live, Microphone Setup, and Semi-Real-Time Voice Tracking

This section covers how to run NextKast in a live environment, set up your microphone for broadcasting, perform semi-real-time voice tracking, and manage transitions for a smooth and dynamic live show.

Running NextKast Live

To run NextKast live, begin by setting up your microphone:

  1. Microphone Setup:
    • Click the Mic Settings button on the main screen.
    • Select your microphone input and adjust the Master Volume.
    • If your input is not available, plug in your device and click Refresh Available Inputs to detect it.
    • Use Audio Attenuation When Mic is Active (ducking) to lower background music while speaking. Adjust this setting based on personal preference through trial and error.
  2. Advanced Microphone Features:
    • Enable Microphone Effects for more control over audio quality, including adjustments for gain, attack, release, threshold, pre-delay, and compression settings.
    • Utilize EQ Adjustments specifically for the microphone input.
    • Activate Mic Auto Gain and Noise Gate to optimize sound quality, being mindful that auto gain might introduce background noise.
  3. Monitor Delay and Feedback:
    • To eliminate delay when monitoring your voice, check the Mute Mic Monitor option. This mutes the feedback in your headphones, reducing distractions.
    • If you need to hear your voice, consider using the Line In External Mixer Method for real-time monitoring without delay.

Semi-Real-Time Voice Tracking

NextKast supports semi-real-time voice tracking, allowing you to fine-tune and perfect your voice tracks before they go on air:

  1. Insert Voice Tracks:
    • Right-click on the desired playlist position and select Insert/Edit Voice Track.
    • Preview the current song, record your voice track, and adjust as necessary.
  2. Editing Voice Tracks:
    • Voice tracks can be edited using external audio editing software to ensure they meet your quality standards.
    • Use sample buttons to add sound effects, music, or other audio elements to your voice tracks.
  3. Live and Semi-Live Operation:
    • Switch between live and semi-live modes seamlessly, using the Next Button Switches to Automated Mode option for easier control.
    • Use the Start Next button to manually control the playlist transitions during breaks.

Additional Features for Live Broadcasting

  • Jump to Any Position: Right-click within the playlist to skip to a specific track or segment.
  • Add or Move Tracks: Easily search for and insert new tracks or reposition existing ones during a live show.
  • Repick Tracks: Select the Repick option to replace a track while adhering to all scheduling rules, providing flexibility in programming.
  • OnAir Player Volume: When running in left and right player mode the user can adjust the volume of the left or right track by left clicking and boving the mouse on the waveform where the player song titlt and artist is displayed. This allows the user to raise and lower backdrop song volume during a talk break..

Transitions in NextKast

  • Crossfades: Control the duration and style of crossfades between songs or audio elements. Crossfades help maintain a smooth listening experience by gradually transitioning from one track to another. NextKast allows different crossfade times for each category (e.g., Music, Commercials, Imaging).
  • Auto Trim: Automatically trims silence from the beginning or end of tracks to create tighter transitions. This feature can be customized by category to maintain a consistent sound flow.
  • Fade-Only Mode: Provides an option to use auto trim and next-start functionality without adjusting the crossfade time into the previous track. This mode allows the broadcast to maintain momentum while respecting specific cue points.

Combining Live and Automated Modes

The live and semi-live features can be integrated with NextKast’s automation modes:

  • Full Automation Mode: Allows for 24/7 hands-off operation, where NextKast handles everything from scheduling to playback.
  • Semi-Automation Mode: Offers a balanced approach, where automated scheduling is combined with manual live interventions.
  • Manual Override: Complete control over playlist and scheduling, ideal for live shows or special events.