Using a stand for the microphone is preferred over holding the microphone, which is fatiguing and prone to noise resulting from handling the mic.If the microphone has a “figure 8” or “omnidirectional” setting, use one of these so the interviewee’s voice will be picked up more clearly. If using one microphone, position it as close to the narrator as possible (no further than three feet away), in line with the direction of his or her voice, without it becoming intrusive.This will deliver a wider sonic response and minimize electrical noise that can travel along unbalanced cables and plugs. Use a professional condenser microphone if possible, one with a balanced, 3-pin XLR plug.These are almost never as good as standalone/external microphones, and can be difficult to place close enough to the narrator.
Avoid using a recorder’s or camera's onboard microphone if at all possible.These things may seem obvious until you're trying to figure them out as your interviewee is watching you.
#History of the wirecutter how to#
Know how to navigate menus, set levels, push record. Digital recorders and cameras are gaining in sophistication and quality all the time. There are a few general tips that can be applied to any recording rig, keeping in mind Oral History Audio Rule #1: Sound is the heart of the oral history interview, even in video oral histories. A good microphone poorly placed, or a fine recorder set incorrectly, will yield a poor result, while budget equipment thoughtfully used can provide excellent results. The basic principles of recording interviews have not changed dramatically despite radical shifts in technology.