How To Improve Audio Quality of a Recording in 11 Easy Steps

May 23, 2023

Creating great content means being detail-oriented. You're in charge of everything from idea to presentation in terms of visuals, as well as audio.

When it comes to recording excellent audio for a video or podcast episode details of the garden variety aren't going to cut it. You have to master of both your environment and idea. This ranges from eliminating distracting background noises, eliminating silence, anticipating how your interviewees will sound when responding to surprising details, as well as regulating high or low-pitched voice.

First, pick your device: you can use smartphones, as well as digital recorders. While smartphones are easily usable, the latter provides a professional-looking output, and is ideal to record interviews, lectures, or gathering field notes.

It's also important to note that there is much more to improving your audio quality beyond the choice of device to record on.

In this article, we'll have a look at the ways you can improve the audio quality of a recording as a creator. Read on to learn more.

how to improve audio quality of recording video podcast

11 steps to improve audio quality

Your story is written or sourced the interviews and perhaps spent some time narrowing down options for intro music. First, you need to get it all on tape.

Of course it's not enough to have to put it "on tape." You want to achieve great audio quality which is so great that it will keep your audience interested.

Here, we've rounded up some helpful tips to aid you in achieving high-quality sound regardless of the recording device you use:

1. Be sure that your surroundings are quiet

Choose a quiet space. While recording, turn off fans, air conditioners, and other devices that can interfere with the quality of the sound.

2. Please use headphones.

Even if your recording space is silent, headphones are essential to help you identify faint sounds that can be erased during edits.

Although headphone quality varies quite widely, we like the Sennheiser Momentum for its sleek design and high-end audio quality.

3. Limit echos

The audio recordings can be ruined by echoing sounds due to their environment in which they are recorded. Echoes can be heard in huge room spaces, which are bare and cluttered. solid walls reflect the sound.

The optimal recording space is small and features cushions to help saturate sounds. Slight background noise will be muffled in your audio recordings and will improve the quality of the audio in the final edit.

If you're considering creating an area for recording that will last forever, consider dedicating a tight space like a closet or an office.

4. Consider investing in a high-quality microphone

Even though smartphones are equipped with microphones, they are not most suitable for recording high-quality audio. An easy and quick option is to utilize inexpensive external USB microphones like the ATR2100x from Audio-Technica.

However, USB mics can be difficult to use simultaneous, for example when you are conducting interviews or reporting in the field. When this happens, it is best to use an XLR mic to split audio channels into distinct ones. We like Shure MV7. Shure MVS7.

5. Ensure your microphone stays put

Sometimes, the most effective equipment to record audio is ... an tripod.

Microphones are sensitive: keeping your mic steady during recording will result in more clear audio tracks.

A microphone stand similar to Rode PSA1 Rode PSA1 , can help you to keep your microphone in its place while freeing up your hands to take notes during recording.

6. Pay attention to your plosives

Plosives are consonants that expel air out of the mouth. We're talking "p," "k," "t," etc. These air blasts could disrupt your audio.

A simple resolution? Consider investing in a quality pop filter. Pop filters that are well-made and reliable are available at most audio equipment stores and online with prices that can be as low as less than 10 bucks.

7. Place yourself in the correct position

An oft-overlooked culprit of poor audio quality? A bad posture for the mic. Avoid leaning back against your chair, or getting close to the mic. Fidgeting, moving, as well as foot tapping, are often required to be removed in post-production.

When you hit record, make sure you stand up straight and with a comfortable posture. Make sure to keep your mouth about four to six inches from your microphone, and don't forget to speak clearly.

Your sound quality will be like that of the person who's recording it: confident as well as loose and at the top of their recording space. Your body is among the key components of the audio recording software.

8. Use mixers when more than one person is recording.

Microphones will help you make amazing recordings even when you're not with anyone. But if you've got guests or an interviewee think about using a mixer for splitting audio channels.

In the case of someone speaks loudly while the other softly, you can modify the volume for the individual during post-production.

Don't skimp on two great microphones. You will need an XLR microphone per speaker in order to adjust each speaker's voice to perfection during the final edit.

9. Test all your equipment before hitting record

If you do make audio recordings frequently, examining your equipment on a regular basis prior to the recording begins is vital. It is best to make a test recording then play it back to ensure that all equipment works perfectly.

It's also important to cut down on your background noise, control the possibility of glitches and sure you're informed of any new additions to your kit.

Though a test might feel like an extra step when you're keen to get moving It can actually save you hours -- perhaps even days of hard work.

10. Set your decibels correctly

The decibel volume of your input can create an ear-splitting sound in the recording of your audio, particularly when you set them excessively high. To select your "gain" (AKA your decibel input volume) correctly, simply:

  • Place your mouth about at a distance of four to six inches from the microphone. Then, use your voice to speak clearly.
  • Check the audio level of your audio recording software to make sure that the voice doesn't exceed the upper limit as displayed on the interface.
  • If decibel levels are above the threshold, lower your volume until the levels do not over that red line.

Performing this test prior to any recording will greatly improve the quality of your recording.

11. Consider investing in editing and proofreading services from a professional

Breathing deeply, coughing and the pause you take while searching for the perfect wordsThey don't sound natural or professional even if you try.

Editing may fix these normal occurrences that are within or out of reach of. Tools such as Descript, Adobe, Audition and Audacity are well-known for editing voice recordings. If you're able to afford the funds to invest in a professional editor to assist you in turning your audio file into a polished final product.

how to improve audio quality of recording video podcast

Bonus tips: Practice your soft skills

While technological aspects involved in recording are essential for improving audio quality, a myriad of other aspects can affect your final output.

State of mind emotionally

Are you happy and calm? Do you feel anxious and want to get this over with? Even experienced voice actors face difficulties blending their tone and tenor when they are on the best microphone.

Make sure you are in a calm headspace before you sit down in your recording area. Your audio quality will thank you.

Physical health

Do not underestimate the physical cost on producing audio of high quality. Are you rested? Have you been drinking fluids? Is your throat feeling slightly swollen? Being alert and healthy is evident in your final cut -the same way being tired or raspy will.

Keep hydrated

The most skilled voice actors understand that keeping their instrument lubricated is key to getting the best audio quality. This is also true for video and podcast creators. Even when you aren't recording, aim to drink at least 24 ounces water. Your throat will be grateful.

Practice or practice, Practice, practice

The cheapest thing you can do to improve audio quality? Practice impeccable enunciation. Audio recording software can only do so much. Yes, it can eliminate background noise or fix certain audio distortion However, the top software for audio recording can't make up for speech that is unclear.

Confidence

Hype yourself up! Look in the mirror and say "I got this." Making a mess of your words or being reticent in your questioning will make for a less engaging listen.

Knowledge and preparation

The more prepared you are in your ability to discuss the topic as well as the easier your recording will be and the more engaging the story you tell. Get familiar with your topic and be prepared to go to a direction you did not write.

Technical mastery

Being comfortable with the recording process and the equipment you use will result in fewer recordings, which means you'll save many hours.

Cover your area with blankets

We said it once and we'll reiterate it The reduction of background noise will reduce the amount of time you spend editing time.

Build a soundproof studio within a small space with soft walls. Blankets hung against the walls in a closet will go a long way in helping to remove any background noise. They can also produce a high-quality audio recording.

Audio quality reflects content quality

recording audio is just all about obtaining the best sound quality as it is about adjusting your content. A poor audio quality can detract from an excellent story yet great audio quality could punch up a project that requires a bit of affection.

Be sure to create an excellent recording environment, and your work will reap the rewards.

  The short version is that Preparation is the key  

Improving audio quality requires addressing many factors that range from the preparation of your space as well as your mental and physical state, and knowing the intricacies of the recording equipment.

If you're serious about producing a high quality audio recording do not just pull out your smartphone. Make the investment into a digital voice recorder, take audio in batches, and get professional equipment and editing support to ensure high-quality audio production on a massive an affordable scale.

Perhaps the most crucial component? The level of preparation you have. However good or great your sound is If you've not taken the time to research your topic, no expensive mic will save you. Before you begin making your video or podcast make sure that you're well-prepared to discuss whatever topic it is you're planning to explore. The people listening to your podcast will be able to hear the message.

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