Good dubbing goes unnoticed. While watching, you forget that the characters originally spoke a different language. Making that happen takes a whole team working hand in hand: translators, script adapters, dubbing directors, voice actors, editors and re-recording mixers. In this article we walk you through a professional dubbing production step by step, just as we do it at Hertz Studio in Munich.
1. Material and preparation
Everything starts with the material: the video with burnt-in timecode, the original audio and, most importantly, the M&E track (music and effects, also called the international track). It contains music, sound effects and ambience, but no dialogue. Without it, effects have to be rebuilt later, which costs time and budget. On top of that come the original dialogue list and details on delivery formats and deadlines.
Our tip: Clarify before the project starts where the dubbed version will be shown (TV, cinema, streaming or online). The mix format, loudness and deliverables all depend on it.
2. Translation and dubbing script
First, the original dialogue is translated. This rough translation, however, is not yet speakable. The script adapter adjusts it to length, rhythm and above all to the lip movements: in close-ups, lip sounds like B, M and P should land in the same place as in the original. At the same time the text has to sound natural and carry the personality of the character. The result is the dubbing script, the basis for all recordings.
3. Casting: finding the right voices
The dubbing director and the production choose voices that match each character’s age, look and personality. For series and sequels, continuity matters: familiar characters should keep their voice. On request, we put together suitable voice samples from our pool of voice actors.
4. Splitting into takes
The material is divided into short sections called takes, usually just a few lines long. This way each voice actor can record their own lines without everyone having to be in the studio at the same time. A daily schedule defines who records which takes and when. This saves studio time and keeps the production easy to plan.
5. Recording in the dubbing studio
In the recording booth, the actors watch the picture, hear the original audio on headphones and read their lines from the dubbing script. The dubbing director listens for timing, emphasis and emotion, the engineer for clean sound and lip sync. Each take is repeated until it is right.
At Hertz Studio in Munich we work with separate recording booths and control rooms. Directors, agencies or producers can attend in person or join remotely via SessionLink and Source-Connect, listening live and giving direction. The studio is wheelchair accessible, with an elevator and a ramp.
6. Dubbing edit
After recording, the best takes are selected and precisely synced to the picture. A shift of just a fraction of a second decides whether voice and lips match. Breaths and non-verbal sounds such as laughing, coughing or effort are added so that the dubbed version feels alive.
7. Mixing
In the mix, the new dialogue is combined with the M&E track. Reverb, level and tone are adjusted so that the voices sit naturally in each scene: a conversation in a car sounds different from one in a church or outdoors. Depending on the use, we mix in stereo or 5.1, for broadcast according to EBU R128 (−23 LUFS), and for cinema and streaming according to the respective specifications. Learn more on our page audio post-production and sound design.
8. Approval and delivery
Finally, the client reviews the finished version. Last corrections are made right away. The mix is delivered in the required formats, and on request with separate dialogue, music and effects tracks (stems), so that later changes remain possible at any time.
How long does dubbing take?
It depends on the running time, the number of roles and the work required on the script. A short corporate film or a commercial can often be recorded and mixed in a single day. A feature film or a season of a series needs several recording days, followed by time for editing and mixing. Send us your material and deadline, and we will draw up a concrete schedule.
Frequently asked questions about dubbing
What is the difference between dubbing and voice-over?
Dubbing completely replaces the original dialogue, in lip sync. With voice-over, the original audio keeps running at a low level and the translation is spoken on top, without matching the lips. Voice-over is typical for documentaries, interviews and reportages.
What is ADR?
ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) is re-recording dialogue in the original language. It is needed when the production sound is unusable, for example because of wind or traffic noise, or when lines are changed after the shoot. Learn more on our page voice-over and ADR.
Do we really need an M&E track?
For high-quality dubbing, yes. Without an M&E track, music and effects cannot be cleanly separated from the original dialogue. If you do not have one, we are happy to advise you on possible solutions.
Can we attend the recording?
Yes. You can come to our studio in Munich or join remotely via SessionLink and Source-Connect, listening live and directing from wherever you are.
Your dubbing project in Munich
Planning a dubbing project for a film, series, documentary or commercial? Send us the running time, number of roles, target language and preferred dates, and you will quickly receive a tailored quote. Learn more about our dubbing studio in Munich or go straight to contact.
