Preparing For A Recording

Here's a checklist for you to use before you start a recording session. Don't leave anything to chance. If you are recording someone other than yourself, make sure you are ready to go long before your speaker or narrator arrives. Feeling rushed greatly increases your chances of making mistakes that will be costly in terms of time and aggravation.

Recording Checklist

 • Make a test recording to ensure that all equipment is working.

 • If you are recording directly to computer, make sure all background
   programs, screensavers, power control, anti-virus & etc. are
   disabled. Disconnect from any networks and turn off any wireless
   network adaptors.

 • Make sure you have sufficient copies of script or outline.

 • Check for adequate lighting.

 • Have a glass of water for each person.

 • Provide a box of tissue.

 • Have a pop filter on microphone.

 • Make sure mike cables are away from power cords.

 • Turn off phones, doorbell, noisy appliances, etc.

 • Position the microphones correctly.

 • Set your volume levels.

 • Once everything is ready, listen carefully in the headphones for any
    extraneous noises.

 • Record 30 seconds of ambience or room sound.

 • Make the recording.

 • Play back & check the recording.

 • Make backup copies of files. Label all tapes, MiniDiscs and CDs.