overdubbed

Overdubbed refers to the act or result of overdubbing, a recording technique in which audio is added to or replaces a portion of an existing recording after the initial take. It is used across film, television, music, and interactive media to improve quality, translate dialogue, or expand the sound.

In film and television, overdubbing is commonly achieved through Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) or looping, where actors re-record dialogue in a studio to match lip movements or to provide a foreign-language version. The process involves syncing the new tracks to the on-screen performance, adjusting timing and tone, and mixing with effects to create a seamless sound track.

In music production, overdubbing involves recording new instrumental or vocal parts on top of an existing track, allowing layering and harmonies that were not captured at the original take. This is standard in multitrack recording setups and can produce a fuller, more complex arrangement.

In animation and video games, overdubbing can be used after animation or motion capture is completed to improve vocal performances or to add localized versions for different markets. The technique helps align voice work with characters’ movements and game or film timing.

The term overdubbed is used to describe a scene or recording that has undergone this process; for example, "the soundtrack was overdubbed for the international release." Overdubbing has been a common post-production tool since the early days of sound cinema and remains widespread in modern media.