Quiet or Loud Recordings: Tips on Getting the Perfect Levels for Podcasting

If you have hit record in any capacity for any reason, chances are that you have seen a meter like this:

This is an audio meter. It is designed to give you a visual representation of what your audio volume levels look like. Today, we are talking about what the levels should look like when recording your audio.

First of all, there are many audio tools out there. From compressors (which makes sound more even throughout the recording), to limiters (which bring up all audio to a limit), to help us sound better. They can be your best friend in resolving mix issues and recording flaws. But if there's anything I've learned in recording audio, "bad in, bad out."

Let's talk about some of the things to watch for when you are recording:

Clipping (distorted peaks) or low volume ruins recordings. Aim for clean, strong signals from the start. Make sure your levels look strong in the green area and do a couple of test takes.

The yellow area is a telltale sign that you are approaching clipping area. It's not bad to be in the yellow, but just watch your voice volume in case you laugh or get excited in your dialog. Green and yellow are where you want to be. Peak around -12dB to -6dB (green/yellow zone, not red).

Speak normally and adjust input gain until you hit that sweet spot.

Use headphones to monitor live. That way, there are no surprises later.

When you are done with your recording, take a second to listen back to the audio. Make sure it's consistent with your overall sound and that it doesn't have any distortion or too quiet. Then, it's time to edit! Good levels make editing easier and sound more professional.

If you need help with your mix or editing, let us help you out! Head over to the contact page to get in touch!