Sound designer Arnaud Noble reveals the secrets behind creating immersive audio experiences across well-known game titles and interactive media (such as Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate – Jack the Ripper (2015) or Just Dance 3 & Just Dance 4 (2011–2012).
In his creative process, Noble relied on the Sennheiser MKH 8030 and MKH 8040 RF condenser microphones to capture original sounds through “sound expeditions” directly in the field.
According to Noble, audio has a transformative role in enhancing the atmosphere and helping players navigate complex storylines. “Capturing a unique and original sound source is an important step in creating soundscape strong,” he said.
Advantages of Mid-Side (MS) Stereo Configuration
In his latest projects, including field recordings in Japan, Noble uses a combination of MKH 8030 (pattern figure-8) dan MKH 8040 (pola cardioid) in stereo configuration mid-side. Some of the technical advantages highlighted include:
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Post-Production Flexibility: MS configuration provides precise control for changing stereo width and balance after recording is complete.
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Detail and Clarity: This microphone is capable of capturing crystal clear audio in complex urban and natural environments.
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Sound Manipulation: Wide frequency range makes manipulation processes such as adjustments easier pitch and refinement of details during stages sound design.
Sound Texture Experiments at High Resolution
Noble emphasized the importance of recording at the 192 kHz rate to capture a wide frequency spectrum. This technique allows him to perform precise manipulations, such as slowing down sound sources to reveal unexpected textures that enrich the game’s sound palette.
“Sometimes, just by slowing down the sound source the results can be magical. The MKH 8030 and 8040 provide incredible detail and image convincing stereo for engineering layering which I use often,” explained Noble.
Compact Design for High Mobility
Apart from audio quality, the compact physical form of the MKH 8000 series microphone is an added value when recording in public places. Noble noted that while in Japan, people around him often didn’t realize he was recording, so he could get sound ambience natural without distractions.
Disclosure: This article was prepared with the help of AI and under the supervision of an editor.