Zencastr records audio in all recording modes and requires access to both the host’s and the guest’s microphones.
Best practices
Test your microphone setup before you record.
Share this article with your guests, so they can check their microphone setup.
Internal vs. external microphones
The key difference between an internal microphone and an external microphone is:
Internal microphones are built-in to the body or monitor of your laptop or desktop computer.
External microphones are attached to the computer, usually using a USB port, sound card, or audio interface.
When deciding which to use and which to advise your guests to use, keep in mind:
Zencastr has built-in features to help improve your audio, so you can use Zencastr with just an internal microphone.
An external microphone improves the quality of your voice and therefore can enhance the polish of your recording.
How to set a default microphone on your computer
If you often use the same microphone to record, you can set it as the default microphone in your computer’s settings.
For Mac users, follow Apple's instructions for setting the default microphone.
For Windows users follow Microsoft's instructions for setting the default microphone.
Zencastr automatically detects and uses your computer’s default audio input.
Adjusting your microphone volume
Your microphone’s input volume, or gain, controls how loudly your voice is recorded.
On the microphone
Many microphones have a physical gain knob. Turn it to raise or lower the input level, until your voice sounds full but not distorted.
On your computer
If you’re on Mac, follow Apple’s instructions to adjust input volume. You should aim for a range between halfway and two-thirds of the meter.*
If you’re on Windows, follow Microsoft’s instructions to adjust input volume. Adjust the input volume slider to a range between 50 and 70.*
*These ranges are general guidelines. Since ideal levels can vary by microphone, the best way to confirm is by doing a short test recording.
Microphone position
Position your microphone about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) from your mouth, angled slightly to the side. A microphone that’s too far away picks up a quiet, distant voice, and one that’s too close can distort.