How to record high-quality sound on the headset. How to turn the iPhone into a real recorder or external microphones for the iPhone. Smooth rapidization and recovery

The following text contains information on voice recording using a computer and software. Information can also be taken into account for podcasts, video sounding, audiobook records and other similar multimedia projects.

Essential equipment:

Microphone: It is he needed to capture sound. The quality of the microphone will be important for the final result.
Headphones: necessary to be able to listen to the material.
Microphone stand: A microphone is installed on it for convenience.
Anti-vibration fastening reduces the level of vibrations and a shaking of the microphone.
: Often the microphone captures a large stream of air from explosive consonant type "b" and "n" that can overload the signal. Pop filter dissects this thread and these problems disappear.
Acoustic environment: In the room where the record will occur, there should be no extra sources of noise, otherwise they will all be recorded with the voice. Accordingly, the acoustics need to take care in advance.

There are several types of microphones:

USB microphone. Such a microphone is connected directly to the computer through USB port. For beginners, this is one of the best options characterized by a small value. By type of capsule, such microphones are usually condenser.
Dynamic microphone for broadcasting. In most cases, used on broadcasting. Have warm sound and less sensitivity. The level of recording of the surrounding noise they have less, but also to speak directly into the microphone, from the most close distance.
Condenser studio microphone with a large membrane. Often such microphones are used on sound recording studios for writing vocals and tools, as they have rich and detailed medium and upper frequencies.

USB microphone connect to standard USB port computer
Recording is possible directly to a computer without attraction of additional equipment
Comparatively low cost

Can not be used as a professional microphone, as is USB device, and, accordingly, does not always have support for ASIO.
For the most part, such microphones depend on the computer, and therefore it is impossible to call them universal.

Compared to microphones with a large membrane, a dynamic microphone is more convenient in operation, as it has an explosive sound when writing.
For work, the microphone for broadcasting does not require phantom nutrition. (The phantom food will be told next).

Despite the warm sound, the dynamic microphone has a low detail of the upper and medium frequencies.
Because of less sensitivity to speak the microphone will have to be at the most close distance.
When working with a computer, additional equipment will be required.

Detailed sound with saturated upper frequencies.
FROM correct settings Microphone can record the sound of great quality.

The ultra-sensitive capsule of such a microphone is more susceptible to vibrations and unwanted noise.
Additional equipment will be required to work with the computer.
Requires phantom food for work.

What is phantom nutrition and why is it necessary?

For normal operation, some microphones are needed electricity Voltage from +1.5 to +52 volts. As a rule, +48 V is used. It is called phantom nutrition. Working with him is not difficult at all, so it is not necessary to ignore this aspect.

Audio interface - here the best way Connect a professional 3-pin XLR microphone to a computer. Audio interface is a device connected to a computer by means tires PCI, USB, FireWire or Thunderbolt. Most audio interfaces are equipped with appointed microphone XLR inputs, headphones, and some other connectors and control elements for convenient operation.

Is it true that audio interfaces provide better sound quality?

Microphone connection directly to the external audio interface will give a clean and even sound, but to obtain the highest sound quality, it is recommended to use additional external equipment as in Studios. USB Microphones do not support connection to external sources.

What additional equipment is worth using for recording?

There are many external deviceswhich can be used: microphone preamplifiers, dynamic processors, mixers, etc. The high-quality microphone preamp will provide a clean sound and will contribute to the identification of the best sound characteristics of the microphone. Dynamic processors (compressors, expanders and limiter) will help smooth the audio signal so that it sounds in the track smoothly and clean. Under the settings of the mixer is meant to control the microphone preamp and dynamic processor. Some of them are designed specifically for vocals and have special tools (de-Essers) that make them indispensable.

What is a de-Esser and why is it needed?

De Esser suppresses whistling and tough sounds - "C", "s", "sh". The device finds problem frequencies and makes them quieter, thereby smoothing the sound.

Pop filter - what is it?

Microphones for writing are very sensitive, they capture all the nuances, including whistling and explosive sounds. Words starting with letters "b", "P", create so sharp sounds that they can overload capsules. The words on the letter "C" sometimes create whistling sounds. Most effective method Prevent their appearance in the record - use pop filter.

Pop filter is small screenwhich is attached to the microphone rack or even to the table surface with a special clothespin. The position of the pop filter can be changed thanks to the flexible goose neck.

What is the rack necessary for recording?

If you are going to sit at the table while working, the pantograph or desktop stand will be a good solution. The last option is a reduced version of the usual microphone rack. Pantograph is more balanced, it is attached to the edge of the table with a special screw. Pantograph is convenient because flexible use and can be installed almost at any angle.

For those who want to work standing, there are outdoor microphone racks. Their height can be regulated, which is very convenient.

Why do you need anti-vibration mount ("Spider", Shock Mount)?

Anti-vibration fastening is a special system to which the microphone is attached, as a result of which the occurrence of noise and vibration comes down to zero. The mount is installed on the microphone rack. The kind of anti-vibratory fastening depends on what microphone you are going to use. Sometimes such fasteners are supplied with a microphone.

Professional recording studios are usually equipped with a special vocal chamber that allows you to record without unnecessary noise. It is known that tough surfaces (gender, ceiling, walls, tables) reflect the sound to the entire space of the room. High ceilings and unusual forms are particularly characteristic of this problem. In everyday life, you can not notice such sounds, but the sensitive microphone must necessarily recognize them.

The best way to create a good atmosphere for recording sound indoors is to use sound-absorbing material. You can use the insulating filter. This is a kind of wall covered with absorbent material, which is installed behind and on the sides of the microphone. For the most part, such filters are very heavy, so you need to take care of the resistance of the rack in advance.

There is another way to minimize noise - the use of acoustic panels. They are different shapes and sizes, which is quite convenient.

Why should I use headphones?

When writing voice, headphones are needed so that the microphone does not catch the sound from your speakers. It is important to record in a quiet room, and the headphones will allow you to listen without the help of the AU. If the record is carried out with the AC included, then the sound quality will deteriorate, an unpleasant whistle may occur due to feedback (Feedback). In addition, the likelihood of hearing impairment and directly the equipment itself is great.

What type of headphones do I need?

Most best Type Headphones - closed. As can be seen from the name, the rear surface of the cups of these headphones is calking, which prevents external noise and other sounds.

Is it possible to provide several people with headphones?

Yes, but for this you need a splitter-amplifier for headphones, which allows you to send one jack jack for headphones from an audio interface or computer into several headphones. One of the advantages with a splitter-amplifier for headphones is the ability to independently lower or increase the volume on different headphones. That is, if three people work, they will be able to build the required volume level for each separately.

Instead of connecting the computer to computer or home AC, it is better to use studio monitors. A pair of good studio monitors will provide you with a sufficient idea of \u200b\u200bthe quality of sound while editing your entry. Classic speakers are very much changed by the sound, making it more attractive, while studio monitors guarantee even frequencies, reproducing the sound as it is.

Of course, first of all it is necessary to proceed from your own preferences. Most programs have specialized voice tools. There are also programs that import video files.

It is best to use that software, work in which does not cause you questions. That is, if there is no need to create a complex mix, then it is absolutely necessary to start the fight against complex software.

When mixing the plug-ins is necessary, they should be considered as external equipment. Professionals apply virtual processor plugins for post-production and achieving perfect sound. An interesting chip of this approach is that you can experiment until the perfect option is turned out.

In addition, there are many functions that can be implemented through plugins, not counting the settings of the equalizer and dynamic processing. Plugins offer a huge selection interesting effectsOne of the most popular effects is reverb and echo.

Why do you need to use effects?

Adding effects and sounds can significantly transform the mix, especially if you work on a project yourself and do not plan to resort to the help of professionals. Using commercial music, you can not forget about copyright. This may entail some difficulties if you plan to place track tracks, especially on YouTube. The way to avoid such a situation is to use free music. Sound effects You can use for emphasizing some moments so that the sound is such as you imagined it. There are large sound libraries, many of them include sound samples that allow you to create an atmosphere in the city, on the beach and any other place.

Is there any other way to write?

Of course, you can record in other ways. For example, use a digital recorder. These devices have built-in capacitor microphones. Some models also possess additional inputs, To connect external microphones. it excellent option For those who often travel, but at the same time want to get a qualitative result. Pocket recorder can also be used to create your own collection of sounds.

Key points:

The microphone is not the only device that you will need;
Headphones are needed to monitor sound;
Work with microphone rack more convenient;
The sound insulation of the room is very important, use sound-absorbing material;
Pop filter will help cut off sharp sounds;
No need to ignore plugins and sound effects;
By connection type there are 2 types of microphones: USB microphones and analog;
USB microphone connects to a computer directly;
Condenser microphones have saturated and bright frequencies;
The best way to connect an analog microphone to a computer is to use an audio interface;
Audio interfaces are external tools that are connected to a computer via USB, Thunderbolt and other ports;
Work better with those programs that you know well;
The best microphone rack, if you work at the table, - Pantograph;
Anti-vibration fastening ("Spider") - a system that prevents shaking and vibration of a microphone;
The insulating filter is a good way to filter out unnecessary sounds;
Closed headphones are better suited for writing vocals;
Headphone amplifier will allow a signal to several different devices;
Studio monitors will give you an accurate picture of the sound of your track;
For control tools, you can use additional external equipment;
Microphone preamps are amplifiers that enhance the signal from the microphone;
Compressors make quiet parts of the track louder, and loud - quieter;
Portable recorders can also be used for recording.

The basis of the article Bhphotovideo.co

Built-in microphone, which today is equipped with most laptops, is a significant advantage in comparison with old models of laptops, when users had to acquire this device separately. This is not only an excessive waste of money, but also too much time for connecting, and a separate place should also be allocated.

However, the built-in recording device, as well as portable, must be configured. And it is important to configure it correctly because it directly affects the sound. It is on how to improve the quality of the microphone sound on the computer, we will talk today.

Standard tools of Windows

If your laptop is equipped with a recording device, and it is present in the "control panel", but noise does not work or hear noise, it is possible that it is adjusted to the quiet gear. That is, to improve the sound quality, you need to change some parameters:

After the work done, test the sound recording equipment. If the voice is heard normally, without interference, it was configured correctly. If the interference was left, read the article further.

Note that malfunctions may be associated with the sound amplification parameter, the adjustment of which is carried out in the "Improvement" tab. It is not recommended to set the value above 10DB. Here you can also increase the volume.

The same principle will act as for headphones with a built-in microphone and for a webcam.

Codecs

Improve microphone on a laptop using " Realtek High Definition Codecs »- codec and control panel to improve sound outgoing from you that are suitable for all types and types of recording equipment.
We perform the following steps:

Go to official site.
Select "Realtek High Definition Codecs".
Download actual version programs in accordance with the installed operating system;
Install the utility using the installer;

After the program is installed on your computer, you need to configure it:

Now the program is configured and ready to work. It will help to significantly improve the operation of the microphone on the laptop.

Software improvement

If you are interested in recording, then good post Can be provided with audio processing. For example, using the Adobe Audition program. This utility offers users a range of tools, including the setup of the headset:

Increasing clarity;
Removal of noise;
Change in tone;

In addition, you can additionally install extensions that conduct sound processing in automatic mode. Some of them make it possible to get incredible high quality Sound approximate to the studio.

Sound quality is the most important parameter for users who actively use programs for recording and Internet telephony. First of all, it is determined by the quality of the Internet compound. Moreover, the speed and state of the Internet is important from both interlocutors and affects the conversation equally.

Programs like Skype, Viber, etc. They have in priority stability of the conversation, and if you do not have the fastest Internet, then the software will automatically begin to receive the worst quality signal so that the user can listen to it continuously. To significantly improve the sound in Skype when talking, stop downloading and downloading any files. Sometimes it helps to fully solve the problem of bad sound.

How to write vocals

Starting to the cycle of articles on recording unconditionally made sense to start from the main element - vocal. Without it, it will not be clear what advertising or a song. And from unsuccessful doubles do not collect successful work. Let's deal with together, how to get a good double? Suppose the singer or announcer is physically and psychologically healthy, learned the text and rehearsed well the material, and so it came to the moment when he came to the studio.

1. Convenient sound of vocal in headphones
The first thing that the singer is facing in the process of work at the studio - the sound that he hears in the headphones is not the way he is used to hear it usually. The main factor affecting the perception of his own voice is that we hear it not only from reflections from the surrounding walls and objects, but also directly through the cranial bone. Slightly scares, right? And yet the tone that we hear in the headphones closest to the sound, which really hears the audience. How to cope with discomfort? First of all, adjust the sound in the headphones is comfortable on the volume and balance of vocals and music. Can help remove one earphone and listen to the natural sound in the room. Occasionally I met the way when a cardiac or hypercardoydoor microphone was used and in the maximum sound suppression zone, this microphone was put acoustic system. However, it is rather an imitation of concert conditions than studio practice.

2. Choosing a suitable microphone
The second, which can make a problem, is the microphone itself. We make a double and terrify how our voice sounds - the consonants began to whistle and drove the ears, the bass tambourite as if in a bucket. In this case, it is important to find a microphone in which the timbre will most correctly sound, and determine the point of removal of sound. Often the microphone is the complete opposite of vocals: more matte sounding equipment is suitable for a bright voice, and, on the contrary, the cap compension with raised medium and high frequencies will help. Thus, balancing is achieved. However, it is worth considering music. In a bright mix of vocals, it has the right to sound brightly, but in a warm and relaxed lounge track, a caustic voice can completely knock the listener from the gauge. You should try to squeeze the timbre as close as possible to the desired result. Equalizer will not fix the performer's sound so natural and beautiful as the faithful microphone and its position.

3. Defense characteristics
There are many different types of microphone capsule. The table below horizontally lists the types of microphones, and vertically their characteristics (from top to bottom): Corners of the gripping and maximum sound suppression, a signal attenuation that comes from the back of the microphone, the sensitivity to the surrounding noise and the distance factor (with respect to OMNI). This is a coefficient to which you can enlarge the distance to the object when recording to get a similar sound.

For example, recorded several samples from the lamp microphone Octave μL5000. The close distance is the lips on the pop filter, the average - about 40 cm to the filter, far - 80-100 cm.

What conclusions can be made? First, by themselves, different regimens can sound differently. In our example, "eight" sounds more smooth than the cardiomide and an omnidirectional option. Secondly, at close range, the circular orientation sounds more naturally, with a smaller lifting of the bass. Thirdly, at the far distance of the cardiomide and the eight more winning type, as the room reflections less.

4. Optimal distance to the microphone
In many directional microphones, there is a pronounced effect of "approximation". The closer the person sings, the more low frequencies in sound. With omnidirectional microphones, this effect is much less pronounced. The space between the singer and the microphone depends on what the timbre will be and whether it will require "artistic thread" on the equalizer. If the whisper is worth searching for a closer distance to create "intimacy" of the sound, then for screaming and loud, it would be worth a given gap to significantly increase. First, to preserve the integrity and performance of the finest membrane of the condenser microphone, and secondly, in order to obtain the right sound plan. Human hearing perfectly understands what "virtual" space is a voice. With a close voice recording, it is necessary to cut down enough and low middle enough to sit in the mix. Extra treatments worsen the quality of the recorded signal, can create phase problems, an attack may be lost. The good initial distance to the microphone is 30-40 cm. In some cases, it is worth trying to a meter. By the way, at a greater distance, air and turns of the head are less noticeable during singing. Pop filter does not save when recording from close distance from dirty sound sounds "S-Ch-Z-sh is." Also decreases the number of "saliva" and the chamber in the record, because the membrane simply ceases to capture them. If the recording room has good acoustics And it is sufficiently muted, then the increase in the distance to the microphone will not lead to a catastrophic increase in the intention of the room and noise.

5. Microphone position
Angle microphone caps Turn relative to the vocalist, also affects the sound. Sometimes you can turn the microphone by 30 degrees, and overly whistle tops are disappeared.

The position of the microphone is slightly left or the right of the rokalist's mouth also affect the sound. The person sings not symmetrically, but a little twisting one half of the face. Sometimes experiments with the position of the microphone bring interesting results.

Placing the microphone on the rack below or higher from the mouth of the soloist can be achieved smaller in the membrane and get different shades of the performer. For example, a microphone located at the chin level can give a slightly better sound than the membrane at the height of the nose or somewhat higher.

6. Dynamics of vocal
The singer is important to try to get the correct voice dynamics on the record. Yes, compression and automation of the volume level will save the situation, but they can make their distortion. It would be true if the vocalist would slightly moved away from the microphone during high-profile notes and approached quiet. An extremely small distance gives a tangible result and lines the dynamics of the recorded batch. In doptop times, when writing the opera diva, to obtain the effect of smooth attenuation, they were dried on a small platform on the rails from the microphone during singing.

7. Recording level and format
IN digital recording There are two important parameters - the depth of quantization in the bits and the frequency of sampling in Hertz.

If you believe the Neuquist-Kotelnikov Theorem, the recording frequency range will be equal to half the sampling frequency. In other words, the theoretical range of 44.1 kHz recorded in format will be 44.1: 2 \u003d 22.5 kHz (!). This is more than enough for human hearing.

The depth of quantization determines the possible dynamic range of the signal. One bit "accommodates" in itself 6 dB.

Most often a voice is recorded in 44.1 KHz / 24 Bit format for audio and 48 KHz for video, which is multiple video format in 24 frames. The recording format can be determined by the final carrier in order to avoid re-recalculating the signal at another frequency - oversampling. This process can sometimes make their distortions.

The average digital record of the indicators is desirable to keep in Area -12 dB with peaks in -6 (one bit). Do not fear too quiet levels, because 24 Bit depth of quantization allows us to achieve the theoretical range of 144 dB. This is more than enough and often exceeds the dynamic range of the microphone and the preampa. But exceeding the level of recording can lead to digital distortion - clipping, and spoil the double to the root.

So, configuring everything as it should be pressed, press the button. "Record" And get ready for the execution of the hit!

How to turn the iPhone into a real recorder or external microphones for iPhone June 24th, 2015

How to turn the iPhone into a real recorder or external microphones for the iPhone.

You need to record high-quality podcasts, intervention, sound for video rows, live performances or video for Y Outube from good sound And you probably noticed that the built-in microphones from your iOS devices iPhone, the iPad does not always cope with the task. How to fix it or turn your iPhone to a real recorder?

Everything is quite simple, today there have been many special microphones designed in a sphere for iPhone and iPad, which are compatible practical with all popular applications,for example: Apple "S GarageBand, Jammit, Sunvox, Standard iOS Camera App, SoundCloud, etc.

Consider some of them.

Perping microphones are connected to the same iPhone / iPad connector as headphones or wired headset (TRRS connector) and secure on clothes. It is also worth noting that suitable for smartphones on android database (here you need to look depending on the phone, for example, with Nexus5 or with good Samsung will work, and with cheap LG no). It is worth considering such models:

Key Features:

Microphone capsule MID-SIDE (M-S) Stereo (90 ° / 120 ° / M-S)

Switchable microphone modes (90 ° / 120 ° / M-S)

Rotary element, you can perform sound recording both in the position vertically and horizontally to record video

Record Quality 44.1KHz / 16Bit, 48KHz / 16Bit

Maximum SPL 120db.

Gain controller on the housing +3 to + 43db

Mini connector Jack for connecting headphones or linear sound output

Free app Zoom Handy Recorder App for Sound Recording Available on the App Store

Key Features:

Stereo Condenser Microphone Capsule X / Y
. Turning microphones from 90 to 120 degrees
. Record Quality 44.1KHz / 16Bit, 48KHz / 16Bit
. Maximum SPL 130DB.
. Gain Regulator on Case -11 TO + 51DB
. Mini Jack Connector for Connecting Headphone or Linear Sound Output
. Free Zoom Handy Recorder App for Sound Recording Available on the App Store
Designed to record only sound, due to constructive features To write video, it is better to consider other models.