As another incredible season of DIY SOS: The Big Build Ireland comes to an end on RTÉ One this Sunday, I’ve been reflecting on what a privilege it has been to handle the re-recording mixing, sound design, and audio post-production for such a powerful series.
DIY SOS isn’t just great television—it commands a massive audience, previously capturing up to a 46% viewership share on RTÉ One. Being responsible for bringing these emotional, life-changing stories to life through sound in our Dublin recording studio is always a highlight of the broadcast year.
1. Crafting the Mix: Dialogue, Voiceover & Emotional Balance
Every episode brings a unique blend of heart-wrenching real-life stories and light-hearted banter on site. One of the core technical requirements for broadcast television post-production is ensuring absolute clarity in dialogue and voiceover narration.
Working on the voiceover recording and mix sessions with presenter Baz Ashmawy is always a highlight. Baz’s warmth and natural humor drive the narrative, so setting up precise EQ, dynamic control, and vocal processing ensures his delivery connects seamlessly with viewers while maintaining strict broadcast loudness standards.
2. Elevating Comedy with Creative Sound Design & FX
This season across the 4 episodes, we decided to push creative boundaries in the post-production studio. We experimented more heavily with customized sound FX and punchy sound design choices to accentuate the light-hearted moments, banter, and ongoing gags among the build team.
Whether highlighting a comedic stumble, emphasizing a dramatic deadline moment, or adding subtle comedic punctuation to Baz’s interactions with the crew, using tailored sound effects gave the edit an extra layer of energy while contrasting beautifully with the deeply moving build reveals.
3. Stepping Out of the Studio: Volunteering on Site in Bray
While my regular role happens behind the mixing console at Egoboo Recording Studios, I wanted to get even closer to the heart of the project this season. I rolled up my sleeves and volunteered on site in Bray for two full days during the build.
Experiencing the sheer energy, camaraderie, and relentless dedication of the volunteers, tradespeople, and production crew firsthand was inspiring. Being on site gave me a whole new perspective on the sweat and heart that goes into every single frame—making the final re-recording mixing pass in the studio feel even more personal.
4. Tune in for the Season Finale This Sunday
Across all 4 episodes this season, the stories have shown the extraordinary power of community coming together. The final episode airs this Sunday on RTÉ One, and it is guaranteed to be an emotional powerhouse.
If you are producing television broadcasts, feature documentaries, or corporate content and need high-end re-recording mixing, voiceover recording, or creative sound design in Dublin, reach out to us at Egoboo Recording Studios.