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These workflows are designed to help you with scripting for Netflix compliance and other SVOD specifications
Timed Text Authoring Lineage or TTAL is a JSON based file format designed for exchanging scripts between tools in the localization pipeline such as authoring and prompting tools. TTAL was developed by Netflix for streamlining dubbing and audio description workflows. It carries dialogue text with timing information and other relevant attributes that can be used during translation, adaption and recording.
VoiceQ support for TTAL files reduces inefficiency and significantly improves reliability and project quality. The application offers a unique visual aspect to a user's script to improve spotting and editing, as well as visual aids to help reduce an actors recording time.
Below is a workflow for compiling and creating TTAL files with VoiceQ. As VoiceQ is a complete scripting application you can either create new projects from scratch and export as TTAL files or you can work on TTAL files distributed by Netflix backlot.
To create a TTAL you will need to import a timed script into VoiceQ with both start and end time values. If you don't have a timed script and only media there are several services that can sync the files for you and allow direct import into VoiceQ - See third-party services for more.
The most common script type we recommend is excel (xls, xlsx) or Comma-seperated (csv) in the following format:
Script (Language code) | Start time | End time | Character/Source | Comments
Please note that the placement of the columns is not important as VoiceQ can define the columns in our script import manager. Replace the language code to read e.g. Script (en-us) or Script (fr).
Steps:
For the following you will need a Script file for translation or adaption and a video file. IF you need an example please download one of the following:
1. Open the VoiceQ Pro/Writer application
2. Import your script file using the Script Import Manager (SIM) - SIM allows you to choose many options from the column headers. First select the TYPE of the column, for example: "Timecode In" and then select the additional options such as "Timecode type" i.e. "Hours:minutes:seconds:frames" or "Minutes:Seconds"
Each column can be customized, however be sure to check your selection before selecting "Import" as once you import the file it creates your events and allocates characters lines based on the import script selections made.
3. Once the selections are made select "Import". You will see events created in the VoiceQ timeline allowing you to easily move, adjust and edit lines visually.
4 . Import your media file either by "drag and drop" into the timeline or via 'File>Import Media'
5. Be sure to select the audio file when importing your media if you have more than one audio track to select.
6. Take your time and translate, adapt and/or record your script.
Insert FORCED NARRATIVE to the script if they have not been defined already. These three options MUST be selected for FORCED NARRATIVE:
- The Character "FN" column needs to be selected
- The "Character on screen" selections need to be selected
- The "Screen position" selection needs to be selected
To do this select a line that is a FORCED NARRATIVE and select the character in the characters list. If there is no FORCED NARRATIVE character, create new one and select the "FN" column checkbox to confirm "All lines set" are FORCED NARRATIVE.
Once you define the character assign it to the line that is to be defined as FORCED NARRATIVE. Then open the comments window and select the "Character on screen" position and also the "Screen position".
7. Once you are done, Select "File>Export>Export TTAL".
8. Select the script type that you need to export. All official script types will be shown. The export language is important to get right when exporting out TTAL files.
If you don't have original language information, please leave the checkbox unchecked.
9. Then select export Choose a location to save. Then save your project for future use if you haven't already.
10 . Upload the Timed Text Authoring Lineage (TTAL) file to the Netflix backlot for Validation. If you have validation errors, open the VoiceQ project and select "Script>Validate Script" this will check for issues with timecode or word timings that may throw off the validation on backlot. If you continue to see errors you may export a CSV from VoiceQ via Fiel>Export>Export Comma-seperated (CSV) and upload it directly to the NEtflix TTAL Converter: https://dubstudio.prod.netflix.net/ttal/convertor
Repeat the steps for each file you work on.
If you have more questions, please contact our voice support team.
1. Open VoiceQ, create a new project and then import the file via "File>Import>Import TTAL"
2. Select the file stored on your computer and select "Open".
3. You may choose to replace comments or leave default if not required.
4. Once the file is imported, save your project.
5. Take your time and translate, adapt and/or record your script.
6 . Because the script is a pre-created TTAL it should have FORCED NARRATIVE definitions. If not you will need to do the following.
These three options MUST be selected for FORCED NARRATIVE:
- The Character "FN" column needs to be selected
- The "Character on screen" selections need to be selected
- The "Screen position" selection needs to be selected
To do this select a line that is a FORCED NARRATIVE and select the character in the characters list. If there is no FORCED NARRATIVE character, create new one and select the "FN" column checkbox to confirm "All lines set" are FORCED NARRATIVE.
Once you define the character assign it to the line that is to be defined as FORCED NARRATIVE. Then open the comments window and select the "Character on screen" position and also the "Screen position".
7. Once you are done, Select "File>Export>Export TTAL".
8. Select the script type that you need to export. All official script types will be shown. The export language is important to get right when exporting out TTAL files.
If you don't have original language information, please leave the checkbox unchecked.
9. Then select export Choose a location to save. Then save your project for future use if you haven't already.
10 . Upload the Timed Text Authoring Lineage (TTAL) file to the Netflix backlot for Validation. If you have validation errors, open the VoiceQ project and select "Script>Validate Script" this will check for issues with timecode or word timings that may throw off the validation on backlot. If you continue to see errors you may export a CSV from VoiceQ via Fiel>Export>Export Comma-seperated (CSV) and upload it directly to the NEtflix TTAL Converter: https://dubstudio.prod.netflix.net/ttal/convertor
Repeat the steps for each file you work on.
If you have more questions, please contact our voice support team.
- Option to import/export 'DUB_SCRIPT' with the forced narrative indication in TTAL format.
- When importing a TTAL with 'FORCED NARRATIVE' the application sets the line as the character 'FORCED NARRATIVE'.
- When importing a TTAL with 'FORCED NARRATIVE' the data for 'Position on-screen' will import the settings for 'top, bottom, left, right'.
- FN in the characters menu defines the character as a 'FORCED NARRATIVE' - think of it like the title of a film or an on-screen credit that is non-spoken but still needs translation or adaption. i.e. The board says "I AM ALIVE" which would be non-spoken but set as a FORCED NARRATIVE as it appears as part of the story told to the viewers.
- The Screen position field can be found in the extension of the comment pop-out - here you can log the location of the FORCED NARRATIVE on-screen position.
- The Character on screen is also required for the actors to see if the person appears in view or not.
Can I open “VoiceQ Project 3.0” format with older series and versions of VoiceQ?
No, VoiceQ 6.1.0 will be the first version ever to export in the “VoiceQ Project 3.0” format. Users wishing to open projects created in “VoiceQ Project 3.0” format will need to upgrade to version 6.1+. Users can choose which format to save in if they wish to send the project to a user on an older version. If you are having loading issues from external drives or cloud drives we recommend using the new “VoiceQ Project 3.0“ file format over the legacy “VoiceQ Project 2.0” file format.
Can i connect VoiceQ via MIDI or AVID Satellite to Pro Tools on Windows?
You may run VoiceQ on a mac and connect it to Pro tools on windows but it will require a hardware MIDI connection or third party application to run successfully. We do not recommend it, but it is possible to use it in this configuration.
Download rtpMIDI and set it up just like the macOS set-up guide you may view on Setting up your studio.
For AVID Satellite it is not recommended, however is still possible to run over a network protocol.
Does the use of VoiceQ Applications cause a breach to TPN Assessment?
No, as per MPA guidelines, use of VoiceQ applications do not breach TPN assessment. Cloud-hosted systems and servers are strictly prohibited without the advanced written consent of content owners. Therefore the use of VoiceQ Cloud services may require the approval of the content owner before storing data in the cloud, etc.
How do I cancel or suspend my license?
To cancel or suspend your license please fill our cancellation form to confirm with our sales staff. Please note that you must provide us with at least 10 days prior notice before your cancellation request will become effective.
VoiceQ will generally offer refunds for any purchase within the previous 30 days, to any customer who accidentally purchased the wrong product or discovered after purchasing that the product did not work as expected. A service fee may be deducted where our payments provider refuses to refund their own fees.
How do I connect VoiceQ to Pro Tools?
You can connect VoiceQ via MIDI using an in-built IAC or share a connection over a network to another device. To learn more visit Setting up your studio.
How do I upgrade a license(s)?
To upgrade your license, you can contact our support team or If you wish to move from an monthly to annual you can cancel your current term and purchase a new license via our purchase portal.
How does VoiceQ Cloud licensing work?
1. Clients have the ability to tag in and out different users in Cloud. We can allocate you a large volume of licenses to add as many adaptors/users as desired and the manager of the cloud projects can review the teams that each time milestones are completed.
2. Cloud manager gives the project owners piece of mind by controlling who sees and can edit what on projects via our team’s system.
3. Users need to register to confirm their identity and then they can access and edit projects.
4. Volume can be monitored by VoiceQ Cloud managers.
5. Owners of VoiceQ writer on MacOS can easily access projects in the application and stream the media directly into the system without the need to share scripts and media files.
How does VoiceQ integrate with ProTools for recording?
To connect VoiceQ, you have two options: you can either connect it via Avid Satellite or MIDI using the in-built IAC, or you can share the connection over a network to another device. For detailed instructions on setting up your studio, please visit the 'Setting up your studio' section.
I receive a MIDI error in VoiceQ upon playback. How do I fix this?
This can be caused by two variables:
1. Check MIDI beat clock is set to the correct port in ProTools. The Beat Clock controls Playback and often is the cause of this issue. Navigate to 'Setup>MIDI>MIDI Beat Clock...'
2. In the Transport window or Synchronisation options via the transport, you need to select 'GEN MTC'. Once activated both PT and VQ will be in Sync.
Is VoiceQ Writer a cloud based system or native install on a local workstation?
• VoiceQ Writer is a MacOS application, however, we created VoiceQ Cloud as a windows friendly, and cloud-based equivalent.
• VoiceQ Writer (and Pro and Actor) fully integrate with VoiceQ Cloud
• VoiceQ Cloud replicates much but not all of the Mac OS functionality, it does provide advanced project management, collaboration, and reporting functionality
• Voice Cloud is available in 2 forms Manager and Collaborator, the former can set permissions while the latter receives permissions
Recommended MIDI hardware?
We recommend any general USB midi interface including the iConnectivity Mio2, Nektar MIDIFLEX4 or the mioXC. We strongly recommend using a Network interface but if one is not available to use then feel free to use hardware.
What are the benefits of using VoiceQ with AVID Protools vs using AVID Protools on its own?
When using VoiceQ with Protools, you can enjoy several benefits compared to using Protools on its own:
i. Interoperability with OOONA: VoiceQ allows seamless import and export of files between the two applications, facilitating easy sharing. This is especially useful for script updates and post-recording edits.
ii. Pre-recording script features: VoiceQ offers comprehensive reporting capabilities, including line counts and character word/letter counts. These built-in features benefit the casting of voice actors and provide project oversight.
iii. Filtered character lines during recording: VoiceQ enables you to filter the lines specific to each character, providing a defined list for voice-over (VO) recording. Both the audio engineer and director in a studio setup have full visibility of the script. This allows for easy export of the as-recorded script post-recording.
iv. Script display options for actors: Actors can view the script on screen using various methods such as Rythmoband, plain text, subtitles with the classic 3-beep method, or a combination of modern and traditional approaches.
v. As-Recorded script integration: VoiceQ allows you to incorporate all updates from the studio recording into one project file, resulting in an as-recorded script. This feature is particularly useful for post-production subtitling.
vi. Audio Description capabilities: With VoiceQ's As-Recorded script, you can easily perform Audio Description, with in-out points visually displayed on the timeline for users' convenience.
By utilizing VoiceQ alongside Protools, these benefits enhance the overall workflow, efficiency, and accuracy of the recording process.
What are the primary benefits of the OOONA and VoiceQ Dubbing and Audio description workflows?
The OOONA and VoiceQ Dubbing and Audio Description workflows provide several primary benefits:
Overall, the OOONA and VoiceQ Dubbing and Audio Description workflows offer a comprehensive and efficient solution for managing and enhancing the dubbing and audio description processes. They enable improved productivity, accuracy, quality control, collaboration, and inclusivity, resulting in a seamless and engaging experience for the viewers.
What do I need to start VoiceQ?
Users will need to sign up and register for an iLok account to use our products. Select the link to register your details and create a user name. Users will then need to download the ilok manager application and follow the installation process. Select the link to download the latest ilok Manager.
Once you have installed the application you need to open it and log in to save your details.
What is VoiceQ Project 3.0?
The new file format is a “VoiceQ Project 3.0 file” which securely contains all project data. It is designed to be more efficient and easier for the application to access than the legacy “VoiceQ Project 2.0 ” file format. If you save a VoiceQ project in the new “VoiceQ Project 3.0“ file format you will witness faster load times from external drives and local devices. You will see faster load times, consistent media connection and increased stability when working across multiple devices such as Avid Nexis and Enterprise servers. Our apple silicon version also uses “VoiceQ Project 3.0” as its default to future-proof projects.
What is the benefit of the OOONA platform for translation and captioning workflows?
The OOONA platform offers several benefits for translation and captioning workflows:
Overall, the OOONA platform offers an efficient and user-friendly solution for managing translation and captioning workflows, promoting collaboration, saving time, and ensuring transparency throughout the process.
Where do I download VoiceQ software?
New users can download VoiceQ software from our downloads/releases page. You will need to select the version you have purchased a license for. Please note that you will alos need to select the correct application based on the OS you plan to use.
Will a Cloud Manager account allow me to do the adaptation?
Yes, Cloud manager allows for project creation, sharing, editing and adaption all online.