In online learning, audio quality plays a pivotal—yet often underestimated—role in learner engagement and comprehension. Clean, clear narration helps learners focus, reduces cognitive strain, and supports a more professional, polished learning experience. 

Whether you're an instructional designer, educator, or content creator, here’s a streamlined guide to achieving better dialogue and narration audio—no studio required. 

1. Environment: Optimize the Space You Have 

Great audio starts with the space you record in. If you notice echo or noise in a room, a microphone

will pick it up—and often make it sound even louder. 

Best practices: 

• Soften the surfaces: Blankets, cushions, rugs, and curtains absorb sound. Prioritize these over hard, reflective surfaces. 
• Minimize external noise: Choose a room that’s quiet, away from HVAC systems, busy streets, or common areas. 
• DIY-friendly: You don’t need expensive treatments—a thoughtfully arranged room with soft materials can be highly effective. 

If it looks a bit like a pillow fort, you’re probably on the right track. 

2. Talent: Deliver With Intention and Energy 

A strong performance makes narration more engaging and effective. Whether you’re recording yourself or working with a voice actor, tone, posture, and expression all matter. 

Tips for better delivery: 

• Smile when speaking: It subtly enhances warmth and clarity. 
• Stand or sit with good posture: It improves vocal tone and breath control. 
• Read aloud beforehand: Let your voice warm up before hitting record. 
• Match your audience: Elementary learners may need more expression and pacing than adult learners. 

The goal: sound natural, confident, and present—not robotic or over-rehearsed. 

3. Pace: Adjust for Comprehension and Retention 

Pacing affects how well learners absorb information. Too fast, and learners fall behind. Too slow, and engagement drops. 

Suggested word-per-minute (WPM) ranges: 

• Young learners: 100–120 WPM 
• Secondary/post-secondary: 120–150 WPM 
• Lectures/presentations: 150–200 WPM 

Use natural pauses and inflection to emphasize key points and allow concepts to settle. 

4. Microphones: Invest in Clearer Sound 

The microphone you choose significantly impacts quality. Built-in laptop mics or gaming headsets aren’t designed for professional narration. 

Recommended features: 

• Condenser microphone (preferably mid or large diaphragm) 
• Cardioid polar pattern (focuses on your voice, reduces background noise) 
• USB connection (or XLR with audio interface, if you’re comfortable with it) 
• Shock mount and pop shield (to reduce vibrations and plosives) 

Good microphones are affordable and can elevate the listening experience dramatically.  

If a proper mic or treated space isn’t available to you, consider using AI-powered tools like Adobe Enhance Speech. It can clean up substandard recordings by reducing background noise, evening out audio quality, and boosting clarity. While it’s not a complete replacement for proper setup, it can bridge the gap when equipment or location is limited. 

5. Post-Production: Clean Up the Audio 

Once recorded, audio should be edited and processed to ensure clarity and consistency. 

Key techniques: 

• Noise reduction: Helps to remove unwanted background noises, hums, and hisses. 
• Loudness normalization: Aim for a loudness of -16 LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale) for web distribution. This keeps playback levels consistent and prevents jarring volume shifts. 

These adjustments ensure your narration is listener-friendly across all platforms and devices. 

6. Export Settings: Balance Quality and File Size 

To ensure compatibility and ease of access for learners, export your audio in two formats: 

• WAV  
• MP3  

WAVs preserve quality; MP3s enable quicker load times with minimal perceptible loss. 

Quick Reference Guide 

Final Thought 

Well-produced audio doesn’t just sound better—it shows respect for your learners' time and attention. When dialogue is thoughtfully delivered and technically clean, it supports focus, reduces fatigue, and helps content land as intended. 

If you’re ready to elevate your course audio and have questions about setup or workflows, our Learning Services team is happy to help. 

Want to Learn More?

Connect with your institute's D2L Customer Success Manager or Client Sales Executive, or reach out to the D2L Sales Team for more information about how Learning Services can support you on your learning journey.