Enhance Your Work-From-Home Experience with the Ideal Home Office Audio Setup Techread Shiba, October 29, 2023November 13, 2023 Discover the perfect blend of quietness and crystal-clear audio that elevates your home office environment. In this guide, we delve into a variety of audio equipment options tailored to meet your needs and budget. The Robust Audio Solution: Nvidia Broadcast + Dynamic Microphone + Active Noise Canceling Headphone A. Nvidia Broadcast (formerly RTX Voice)To create an optimal audio setup in a home office, consider using Nvidia Broadcast (formerly known as RTX Voice). This software-based solution utilizes advanced AI technology to effectively eliminate background noise from your audio input. By reducing distractions during conference calls and online meetings, it enhances the overall audio experience. Additionally, Nvidia Broadcast can improve the incoming video’s audio quality even when recorded in noisy environments. Check out this demo video showcasing the capabilities of Nvidia Broadcast (formerly RTX Voice): To enhance your audio setup, you can download Nvidia Broadcast or RTX Voice. Visit the Nvidia website and click on the ‘Download’ button to get the software. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation. Note that Nvidia Broadcast requires an RTX graphics card, but if you have a GTX card, you can still improve your audio with RTX Voice. Both programs offer noise cancellation capabilities for clearer online communication and reduced background noise distractions. Some other Some other alternatives are for example Krisp and Voice Isolation in iOS and MacOS. B. Dynamic MicrophoneWhile popular condenser microphones like the Blue Yeti are commonly used for streaming and as boom mics on headsets, using a microphone in an untreated home office brings different considerations. Instead of focusing solely on sound quality or capturing intricate details at high frequencies, our main concern is reducing noise picked up by the microphone. Dynamic microphones, which feature a moving coil dynamic element, are less sensitive to sound pressure levels and high frequencies. They have a narrower pickup pattern and excel at rejecting background noise, room echo, and even deep voices with heavy bass due to their proximity effect. Utilizing Nvidia Broadcast in conjunction with a dynamic microphone increases your chances of achieving clear audio without any unwanted noise in your home office. There are various dynamic microphones available on the market that can be suitable for your needs, such as the SE Electronic Dynacaster, Shure SM7B, Electro-Voice RE20, and others. It is important to consider that a dynamic microphone typically uses an XLR cable connection which requires an audio interface for connecting to your computer. This may result in additional expenses in setting up your audio equipment. C. Active Noise Canceling HeadphoneTo enhance concentration and improve audio communication during meetings, consider using a reliable noise-canceling headset. These headsets effectively block out external noises, allowing for greater focus and clarity in listening. However, it’s important to note that the built-in microphones on these headsets are omnidirectional and may pick up background noises when used for conference calls. To ensure optimal audio quality for your audience, it is recommended to use Nvidia broadcast along with a dynamic microphone alongside the headset. While the Sony WH-1000XM5 remains a popular choice, there are numerous alternatives available that provide outstanding noise-cancellation capabilities. Optimal Audio Setup for Non-RTX Users However, not every computer is equipped with an RTX card, and some companies may prohibit the use of remote desktops on personal computers. Therefore, a more practical solution would be to use a headset with exceptional background noise cancellation capabilities. These headsets often include their own control units and USB interface, allowing them to be used on different devices such as company laptops (software installation is usually optional). One example is the Jabra Engage 50 II, which utilizes three microphones to effectively cancel out background noise. It features a microphone at the end of the boom arm and two on the outer side, along with advanced algorithms that analyze the incoming sound to isolate and remove unwanted noise while focusing on capturing clear voice. Thanks to these additional microphone capabilities, the Engage 50 II can eliminate up to 36dB of noise. When searching for a headset, it’s important to prioritize models with strong background noise cancellation abilities and microphones specifically designed for isolating your voice and reducing external disturbances. Portable Audio Solutions: Stay Connected on the Go If you frequently answer calls while on the move or during physical activity, a wireless/Bluetooth headset with noise-canceling capabilities may be a better choice. These headsets are designed to reduce external noise and can easily connect to your laptop, tablet, or phone. One example is the Jabra Talk 65, which features two built-in microphones that utilize noise-canceling technology to minimize background noise and provide clear audio during conference calls. While these low-profile mono headsets may not have the same level of noise rejection as larger headsets with boom arms, they offer the advantage of being compact and portable, allowing for on-the-go use without compromising audio quality. Also, in my personal experience, using talk 65 together with iOS voice isolation brings exceptional capability in background noise removal. There are other options available in this category that also include built-in noise-canceling technology and multiple microphones to ensure clear audio and reduce background noise. Additionally, a stable and long-ranged Bluetooth connection can be beneficial if you need to move around while on your calls. Budget-Friendly Adaptability: Asus AI Noise-Canceling Mic Adapter For those who already have a preferred pair of headphones or earphones, the Asus AI Noise-Canceling Mic Adapter is an affordable and versatile option. Simply plug it into your computer via USB and connect your existing headphones or earphones to the AUX interface on the other end. This adapter uses advanced algorithms to effectively eliminate background noise during calls or recordings. By transforming your current audio devices into a noise-canceling headset, you can enjoy improved audio quality without having to invest in a dedicated set for noise-cancellation purposes. While it may not offer the same level of performance as Nvidia Broadcast software, particularly when dealing with nearby human voices or loud children, it generally does its job well and provides a cost-effective solution for enhancing audio clarity in home office setups. Conclusion Enhancing your home workspace with a high-quality audio setup is crucial for a productive and professional work-from-home environment. Take the time to explore different options that best suit your needs in terms of home office audio. Feel free to share any suggestions or experiences you may have in the comments below, and stay tuned for more informative guides on optimizing your home workspace. Computers