Why Certain Voices Should Be Avoided for Audiobooks

Choosing the right narrator for an audiobook is crucial for its success, and differentiating between what works and what doesn't can make a significant impact on the overall listening experience. Here are some voices that should be avoided, along with the reasons why.

Mike Tyson – The Depths of an Intimidating Persona

Our choice for the worst voice for an audiobook is none other than Mike Tyson. Known for his fierce and intimidating personality, it's hard to imagine Tyson tackling audiobook narration. Although his presence might add an element of shock or uniqueness, his voice simply does not fit the format. Consider the following snippet:

Thilly Thuthan sat thteadily while thhe thlurped her thupper of theathoned thquathh thhe thummoned from the thtore thalethman thtanding thtupidly in the thrumptiouth thurroundingth.

This is good for a laugh, but it's clear that even the prospect of Tyson doing it makes for an unrealistic and potentially unpleasant experience.

The Unbearable Voice from Shane Company Commercials

Another voice that should be avoided is the one from the Shane Company commercials. This unique individual has caused absolute disdain in listeners, making anyone want to cover their ears. On the other hand, Sam Elliot, a seasoned actor and voice-over artist, would be a delightful and engaging choice for audiobook narration. His natural and soothing tone would make for an excellent listener experience.

The Droning Narration of Roy Dotrice

Consider the late Roy Dotrice's narration style. Even though the voice was special in its own way, his rather droning tonality and the mispronunciations of character names made it challenging to listen. This issue was magnified even more in the third book, which prompted the narrator to reread the books instead. It's essential to ensure that the narrator's performance enhances the story rather than detracts from it.

Bobcat Goldthwait – When in Character

Bobcat Goldthwait brings another voice to avoid for audiobook narration. When he's in character, his voice can be particularly off-putting. Goldthwait, with his unique and often cartoonish tone, can be difficult to listen to for extended periods. An audiobook should be enjoyable and engaging, and Goldthwait's style doesn't quite fit the bill.

High-Pitched and Midwestern Accent – A Personal Nightmare

Going beyond the famous and famous personalities, there are common real-life people whose voices can also make an audiobook unenjoyable. For instance, a high-pitched voice that reminds one of Minnie Mouse pinching her nose, coupled with a lower Midwestern accent, can be extremely discomforting. Adding to the discomfort, a voice comparing unfavorably with a baby aspirator further emphasizes the issue. Moreover, even the most unique or attractive voice can be a potential deal-breaker if it doesn't suit the needs of the audiobook.

Wimpish Vices – A Turn Off

A wimpish voice is also a significant turn-off for many listeners. It lacks the gravitas and the command required to carry an audiobook effectively. A voice that's too soft or lacks power can make the narration feel weak and insubstantial, detracting from the overall quality of the audiobook. This is especially true if the audiobook is part of a series or has a dramatic or action-packed plot.

Conclusion

When selecting an audiobook narrator, it's crucial to consider not just the actor's fame or charm but also their natural voice and how well it fits the tone and narrative style of the book. Avoiding voices that could be off-putting or disruptive is essential for creating a seamless and enjoyable listening experience. Whether it's Mike Tyson, Bobcat Goldthwait, or even a wimpish voice, these examples illustrate the importance of choosing the right narrator for your audiobook.