[Hidden-tech] improved audio for videos

[Alan Fleming]

Hello,
The Scarlett 2i2 is a small usb audio interface that encodes very high
quality digital audio and is reasonably priced (about 180-200). The 2i2 is
the 2 channel version and least expensive but scales to larger versions
with more tracks (8i8 etc). This is what I use in a small studio, and works
great with no time latency and very high quality recordings. If using a
mac, you can use the application 'line in' to hear the audio as its
recorded if you need that functionality, such as recording vocals. On PC
channel mapping allows this without a plugin.

The KEY though to good vocal recording with consistent levels, whether for
narration, singing or otherwise, is a good compressor. Even a not so good
compressor can be a huge improvement, and make everything sound
professional. The scarlett interfaces come with plugin VST packs, and
include a good enough compressor option.

Also, its good to use a pop filter and to have the client stay away from
the mic. Being too close can cause pops, smacks, and other artifacts, if
you can keep the mic about a foot from their mouth as well as use a pop
filter, it will greatly reduce those things.

On Tue, May 24, 2016 at 11:22 AM, Allen Cohen <acohen at svcable.net> wrote:

>
>
>
> Thank you, Rikk.
>
> I'll check the link and also check out USB mixers.
>
> Best,
> Allen Cohen, MAT
> (802) 387-0220
>
> On 5/24/2016 11:06 AM, all at pinehurstpictures.com wrote:
> > Allen,
> >
> > Recording into a laptop is not good audio quality. A USB mic like the
> Snowball mic might do the trick.
> http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=836611&gclid=CLaOlbL98swCFYsmhgodj-cKeg&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876,92051678402,&A=details&Q=
> >
> > You can of course add a pop filter, home made (nylons) or purchase one.
> As for a mixer, you may not need one. If you want to go that route for even
> better sound quality get a USB mixer and a regular xlr mic. It can get
> complex.
> >
> > If you want to chat about other possibilities give me a call at
> 413-584-6200.
> >
> > Rikk Desgres
> > Pinehurst Pictures & Sound
> >
> > -------- Original Message --------
> > Subject: [Hidden-tech] improved audio for videos
> > From: Allen Cohen <acohen at svcable.net>
> > Date: May 24, 2016 10:26 AM
> > To: "hidden-discuss at lists.hidden-tech.net" <
> hidden-discuss at lists.hidden-tech.net>
> > CC:
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Hello all,
> >
> > I am working with a client, editing his educational videos.  He is using
> > a Dell laptop and Camtasia to record screens, which he sometimes
> > simultaneously narrates or adds narration later.  His audio is
> > inconsistent.  Sometimes there are a lot of "pops" and the levels can be
> > quite different.  I am using Camtasia to edit the videos, so the sound
> > level is pretty easy to adjust, but the pops require way too much time.
> >
> > In a previous life I was involved with professional sound and am aware
> > of mixing consoles with built in metering.  I am looking for a
> > relatively inexpensive solution to the problems mentioned above,
> > probably a microphone with a screen in front of it and maybe a very
> > small microphone interface that has some controls and a built in meter.
> > I am open to other suggestions as well.  All suggestions are welcome and
> > appreciated.
> >
> > Thank you,
> > Allen Cohen, MAT
> > (802) 380-2182
> > _______________________________________________
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