Watch the quick guide
A short test recording can catch the wrong input, distortion and distracting noise before you spend time recording an episode. Try this routine with your current microphone.
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1. Confirm the input
Select the intended microphone in your recording software. Check the application's input meter while you speak. If you have several microphones connected, a moving meter alone does not prove you selected the right one.
2. Record ten seconds
Speak at your normal volume, then include a short example of your louder speaking voice. Keep your distance from the microphone consistent. Monitor through headphones if your setup supports it.
3. Listen to the saved recording
Check the actual playback, not only the live monitor. Listen for a harsh or distorted voice, fan noise, hum and distracting room sound. If the recording distorts, reduce manual input gain where applicable and test again. If room noise is distracting, try a quieter position or reduce the noise at its source.
4. Repeat after a change
Make one adjustment at a time and record another short test. Repeat the check after changing the input, cable, microphone position or software settings. Ten seconds now can prevent a longer recording with an avoidable problem.
Using a Shure MV7+?
Read our Shure MV7+ buying and setup guide for the USB/XLR differences, monitoring and USB processing features. Those features differ by connection; do not assume that software processing changes its XLR output.
This is SonicSavvy's practical recording checklist. The product example does not mean you need to buy a new microphone to perform the test.
