Selecting Software; Setting Your Software Levels; Positioning Your Microphone; Protecting Your Microphone - Audio Technica AT2020USBi Instruction Manual

Additional Information

Selecting software

You have many choices in recording software. Audacity, available for free online at
http://audacity.sourceforge.net/, is a widely used software program that provides basic recording software.

Setting your software levels

Correct adjustment of microphone level is important for optimum performance. Ideally, the microphone
level should be as high as possible without overloading the input of your computer. If you hear
distortion, or if your recording program shows levels that are consistently overloaded (at peak levels),
turn the microphone volume (or level) down, through either the gain control on the microphone, your
control panel (or system preferences) settings or your recording software. If your recording program
shows insufficient level, you can increase the microphone gain via the microphone dial, the control
panel (or system preferences) settings or your recording program.
No further microphone level adjustments should be needed, as long as the acoustic input does not
change significantly.

Positioning your microphone

It is important to position the microphone directly in line (on axis) with the person speaking/singing, the
instrument (or other sound source) to achieve the best frequency response of the microphone.
For use in speaking/singing applications, the ideal placement for the microphone is directly in front of
the person speaking/singing. The same placement is optimal when miking an instrument such as an
acoustic guitar, drums or piano. Experiment with different mic placements to find the best sound for
your particular setup.

Protecting your microphone

Avoid leaving your microphone in the open sun or in areas where temperatures exceed 110° F (43° C)
for extended periods. Extremely high humidity should also be avoided.
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