Recording audio
In addition to adding existing audio files, you can also record your own audio files to use in Presenter presentations. Follow these tips to ensure that you are recording the highest quality audio possible.
Setting up audio equipment
When you have acquired the necessary audio recording equipment, you must set it up properly. First, plug the microphone into the mixer or stand-alone preamplifier, and then plug the output of that device into your computer sound card’s “line in.” Plug the headphones into your computer. Then, set the volume on the mixer or preamplifier. Begin speaking to test the volume levels, and carefully raise the volume until it shows just under zero.
Setting sound card options
You can open the software application that controls the sound card. (In most Windows operating systems, you can find sound settings by clicking Start in the lower-left corner and selecting Settings > Control Panel > Sounds.) When you select the recording source (line in), you can adjust the volume to 100%. If you are using a mixer or stand-alone preamplifier, the actual recording level can be controlled from there.
Changing audio recording settings
After starting your audio recording software, you can change the settings as necessary. Mixers and preamplifiers don’t have sound-level controls, so you rely on the meters when recording. While recording, you should ensure that you don’t exceed zero on the meters, or the sound will be distorted.
Placing the microphone
Positioning your microphone correctly can make a big difference in the finished audio file. First, get as close as possible to the microphone (within 4 to 6 inches) so that you avoid recording any other nearby sounds. Don’t speak down to the microphone; instead, position it above your nose and pointed down at your mouth. Finally, position the microphone slightly to the side of your mouth, because this can help soften the sound of the letters s and p.
Improving microphone techniques
Have a glass of water nearby so you can avoid “dry mouth.” Before recording, turn away from the microphone, take a deep breath, exhale, take another deep breath, open your mouth, turn back toward the microphone, and start speaking. This can eliminate breathing and lip-smacking sounds frequently recorded at the beginning of audio tracks. Speak slowly and carefully. You may feel that you are speaking artificially slowly, but you can adjust the speed later by using your audio recording software. Finally, keep in mind that you don’t have to get everything right the first time. You can listen and evaluate each recording and re‑record if necessary.
Editing sound
Editing sound is similar to editing text. You should listen carefully to your recording, delete any extraneous sounds, and then use the options available in your software to polish the sound. You can add any music or sound effects you require, but make sure to save your audio track in the correct format (MP3 or WAV files).
Reviewing the presentation
After you have added the audio to the presentation, listen to it again. You should view the presentation as users normally would. Finally, it helps to ask others to preview the presentation file. If necessary, you can edit the audio again, on a per‑slide basis.