How to record sound through a microphone on a computer

The presence of a built-in or separate microphone on a PC provides the user with ample opportunities. This includes communication on social networks via a webcam, and the ability to replace boring typing of texts with live speech, and even recording vocals with musical accompaniment. You will learn how to use the recording functionality correctly from our article.

Using a standard computer program for audio recording

Operating systems have a standard “Sound Recorder” application. It does not have additional functionality, however, it is easy to use and is perfect for beginners.

IMPORTANT! Depending on the OS, the path to the program will vary.

Windows XP

Action algorithm:

• Start icon;
• all programs;
• standard;
• entertainment;
• sound recording.

Windows 7

You need to go the same way, excluding the Entertainment section. Alternatively, you can use the search bar (in the Start icon menu) and type the name of the utility you are looking for.

• Launch the application and activate the “Start Recording” button. To the right of the button is an indicator in the form of a strip. Its green color indicates the level of the signal being recorded.

• To complete the process, click “Stop recording”. The resulting file is available for saving in only one format, WMA. It can be opened with any player.

Windows 10

Voice Recorder is used as a recording program. We find it by searching or in the general list of available applications.

Using special programs

There are multifunctional utilities that allow you not only to record sound, but also to process it and save it in various formats.

However, third-party applications have a complex interface. To take full advantage of their capabilities, you will have to spend time studying.

REFERENCE. The leading positions in the list of the most popular audio editors among users are occupied by Audacity, AudioMaster, GoldWave and Sony Sound Forge.

Audacity

Program allows you to save files in various formats and also has its own extension, AUP. Performs full editing of the results (removing defects, noise, adjusting pitch and tempo, etc.). Advanced users have the opportunity to independently expand the available functionality.

• If the program is not on your computer, go to the developer’s website, download the installation file and install it on your PC.
• Launch the application and press the key with the red dot to start the process. We complete the work using the button with a yellow square.
• Then you can proceed to editing or saving the result. In the latter case, open the “File” window and use the “Export Audio” line, after which a list of available formats will open.

ON A NOTE. The Audacity app is free.

AudioMaster

The AudioMaster program has a wide range of tools: recording, trimming and merging files, editing sounds, adding effects, etc.

• To start the process, use the “Record audio from microphone” button.
• In the window that opens, activate “Start a new recording.”

ATTENTION.Before starting, make sure that the working device is selected correctly by default. It is indicated at the top of the window.

• Once the process is complete, you can process the file: apply an equalizer, effects, or apply other tools.
• Then you will need to save the result. In the “File” window, click on the “Save As” line. Here is a list of supported audio formats, each of which can be customized to your liking.
• Having made a choice, click the “Save” icon and determine the location to save the file, its name and click “Save” again.

IMPORTANT! This is a shareware utility; all functionality without restrictions will be available only after purchasing the full version.

GoldWave

Audio editor , in addition to the sound recording function, it has an impressive set of effects, filters for restoration and restoration, supports almost all formats, as well as special plug-ins. The application has a built-in software module that can create any sound or melody in a couple of minutes. There is support for converting from one extension to another.

Recording from a microphone is easy to use.

• On the control panel in the upper right part, activate the icon with a red circle.
• To finish the process, click on the same button.
• To save the result, go to the “File” menu, then “Save As”.

REFERENCE. The editor has functional limitations that can be removed by purchasing the full version.

Sony Sound Forge

The program is a professional product with which you can perform various manipulations with sound.

Recording, full editing and batch processing, application of various filters, etc. are available. A beginner will have to learn the basics to use the application effectively.

ON A NOTE.The utility has a free period of use of 30 days.

Possible errors and difficulties when recording sound through a microphone on a computer.

When trying to record sound, the user may encounter certain difficulties that are associated with the microphone or sound card. These include the following problems:

• lack of audio drivers;
• the device is turned off or incorrectly connected to the PC;
• errors in device settings;
• The USB connectors on the front panel of the computer are not working properly.

We hope our article helped you understand the question of how to use a microphone to record voice and which software product suits your needs. We wish you to have fun and a charge of good mood!