Tips For Recording Audio - Adobe CAPTIVATE 2-USING CAPTIVATE Use Manual

Headphones
Headphones are important because when the microphone is on, speakers can
cause distracting feedback. Additionally, it is best to use closed-ear headphones that prevent
leaking sound (which can be picked up by the microphone).
Recording software A wide range of recording software is available. Important software
features include editing functionality (to fix mistakes), music and sound effect options, and the
capability to create the file format you require (such as MP3 or WAV). An excellent, easy-to-use,
and free option is software named Audacity (available from audacity.sourceforge.net).
Recording area
After you have acquired the necessary audio equipment, the most important
action you can take before recording is an obvious one: find a quiet place to record. Try closing
doors, turning off any unnecessary computer equipment, turning off or lowering lights that might
be making noise, turning off phone ringers, beepers, and pagers. Of course, try to tell coworkers
that recording is in progress.

Tips for recording audio

Follow these tips to ensure that you are recording the highest quality audio possible.
Setup After you have acquired the necessary audio recording equipment, ensure that it is set up
properly. First, plug your microphone into your mixer or preamplifier, and then plug the output
of that device into your computer sound card's "line in." Plug your headphones into your
computer. Then, set the volume on your mixer or preamplifier. Begin speaking to test the volume
levels, and carefully raise the volume until it shows just under zero.
Sound card settings Open the software application that controls the sound card. (In most
Windows operating systems, you can find sound settings by clicking Start in the lower left corner
and selecting Settings > Control Panel > Sounds.) Select the recording source (line in) and adjust
the volume to 100%.
Note: You control the actual recording level with your mixer or preamplifier.
Audio recording software settings Start your audio recording software. Change the settings as
necessary. Note that mixers and preamplifiers do not have sound level controls, so you rely on the
meters when recording. While recording, ensure that you do not exceed zero on the meters, or the
sound will be distorted.
Microphone placement Positioning your microphone correctly can make a big difference in
the finished audio file. First, get close to the microphone (within 4 to 6 inches), so any other
nearby sounds have less chance of being recorded. Don't speak down to the microphone; instead,
position it above your nose and pointed down at your mouth. Finally, position the microphone
slightly to the side of your mouth, because this can help soften the sound of the letters S and P.
Tips for recording audio 87