How to Improve Audio Recordings at Home

Recording audio at home can be tough, especially if you don’t have the environment. On top of that, what app do you use to record, and how can you prevent that “robot voice” that happens if you’re recording online with other people. Let’s take a look at a few helpful techniques.

Capturing Your Audio

First thing’s first: how do you capture your audio? Luckily each platform has a built-in recording app. Let’s look at both Mac and Windows

On a Mac

On a Mac, using Quicktime is the best way to go. They will put out a high quality audio file and it’s really easy to get started.

1. Open QuickTime Player and go to File > New Audio Recording.
2. Click the tiny arrow next to the record button and select Quality Maximum and the correct microphone
3. Drag the volume slider all the way to the left (off)

On a PC

Depending on your version of Windows, this app will have a different name, but it’s just as easy as on a Mac. The only caveat is you’ll need to change your microphone in settings.

1. Search for Voice Recorder from you apps (or Sound Recorder before Windows 10).
2. Click the big blue button to record!

Don’t forget to save your file! The apps might not do it automatically.

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Improving Audio

Number One Tip: Use headphones. That will ensure your mic is only capturing your audio, and not the computer’s. This will reduce feedback and echoing.

You’ll also want to reduce the amount of sound bouncing around in your environment. I did an entire video about room acoustics that might be helpful.

Recording with Other People / Over the Internet

Other things that could help, especially for online recordings, via Zoom, or Skype:

• Pause Dropbox and other cloud syncing services
• Connect via Ethernet right into the modem or router
• Use a mic other than the one built-in to the computer
• Restart the computer and click on the Zoom link in the calendar invite right before our call.

If worse comes to worst, you could also put a blanket over your head. For real – it works. I’ve done it!

These simple tips should help you record the best possible audio for your podcast, video, or just general voice messages. If you have any other tips, leave them below!