

Shawn Rigby
Professional Audiobook Narrator & Voice Actor
Behind The Mic with Shawn Rigby: A Glimpse Into My Audiobook Narration Process and Studio Setup
Ever wondered what goes into creating an audiobook? Welcome behind the mic, where storytelling starts to breath.
As a voiceover artist, I bring characters, plots, and emotions to life with every word I narrate. In this space, I’m giving you an exclusive look into how I transform written text into a compelling listening experience. From the initial script to the final edit, every detail plays a role in creating a high-quality audiobook that captivates listeners from start to finish.
My Audiobook Narration Process: From Script to Sound
When you hear an audiobook, it’s easy to forget the work that goes into bringing it to life. Here’s an inside look at what happens behind the mic:
​
Preparation & Script Analysis
The process begins long before I pick up the mic. I read through the script multiple times to familiarize myself with the story, the characters, and the tone. This allows me to identify unique character voices, special pronunciations, and the emotional undercurrent of the narrative.
​
Voice Selection & Character Development
Character voices are one of the most crucial aspects of narration. I carefully craft distinct voices for each character, ensuring they are consistent and authentic throughout the audiobook. Whether it’s a gruff detective or a soft-spoken heroine, each voice is chosen to match the character’s personality and role in the story.
​
Recording: The Heart of the Process
Using professional-grade equipment and a soundproof recording space, I bring the words to life. The recording process involves a lot of attention to detail. I focus on pacing, tone, and the emotional delivery of each scene to ensure the listener can connect with the characters and plot. I use Punch and Roll Editing to correct most errors as I go and helping me keep on track with deadlines.
​
Editing & Post-Production
After the recording is done, the editing process begins. This is where I fine-tune the audio—removing background noise, fixing any mistakes I didn't catch during recording, and ensuring that the pacing flows seamlessly. The goal is to create a professional, polished recording that feels natural and immersive.
​
Final Review and Quality Control
Before the audiobook is ready for distribution, I review the entire recording, ensuring the narration is clear, engaging, and free of errors. I also test the final product on different devices to guarantee it sounds great whether you’re listening on a smartphone, tablet, or speaker.
Why Quality Audiobook Narration Matters
​
A well-narrated audiobook does more than just tell a story—it immerses listeners into another world. Whether you’re an avid audiobook listener or someone new to the format, the quality of the narration can make or break the experience. That’s why I dedicate time and effort to ensure each audiobook I narrate is of the highest quality, from the first word to the final edit.
Behind the Scenes: The Technology I Use
​
Behind every great audiobook is a blend of professional skills and cutting-edge technology. I rely on my Rode NT1 mic, and Audient id MKII14 interface for some of the highest quality mic preamps, digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Reaper, and a range of editing tools from Waves & RX11 to ensure the sound is crisp, clear, and immersive. These tools help enhance the recording process and allow me to deliver the highest-quality sound to you, the listener.
AI and the Future of Audiobook Narration
​
Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in the audiobook industry. AI can assist in areas like script analysis & proofing, I use Pozotron. However, while AI tools can streamline certain aspects, human touch is irreplaceable when it comes to delivering an emotionally engaging performance. My goal is to blend AI’s efficiency with human creativity, offering audiobooks that are both technically proficient and deeply moving.
What Sets My Audiobook Narration Apart?
​
-
Dynamic Performance: I bring characters to life with distinct voices and an emotional range that keeps listeners engaged.
-
Attention to Detail: From script analysis to post-production, I ensure that every part of the process is handled with care to produce a flawless final product.
-
High-Quality Sound: Using the latest in recording and editing technology, I deliver crystal-clear audio that immerses you in the story.
-
Commitment to Authenticity: Whether it’s capturing a character’s accent or matching the tone of the story, authenticity is key to my narration.
Want to Learn More?
​
If you’re curious about the process or want to see how my narration can bring your project to life, feel free to contact me! Whether you’re a publisher, author, or audiobook listener, I’d love to share more about the art and science behind quality audiobook narration.
Explore
Check out audiobook samples and demos by clicking here!