Reference Guide

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Tutorial 3 – Recording vocals and musical instruments
5. Make sure What You Hear or Stereo Mix (exact name various depending on the sound card
manufacturer) is not selected. If this option is enabled, click the Select check box below the
desired input (normally Line In or Mic).
This problem can also occur when you are using an analog mixer in your setup. Carefully follow all
of your signal paths to ensure that your sound cards audio output is not being looped back into itself.
You should also consider the possibility of your microphone picking up the signal from your speakers
or headphones.
Only a flat line/silence is recorded
In Windows XP, click the Start button and go to Programs > Accessories > Entertainment >
Volume Control to open the Windows Mixer.
The Windows Mixer controls the volume levels of your sound card inputs and can also mute any
input or output device.
The Windows Mixer looks like this:
When you open the Windows Mixer it may be labeled Play Control or Recording Control. We want
to see the recording controls.
To view the recording controls in Windows XP:
1. On the Options menu, click Properties.
The Properties dialog appears.
2. In the Adjust Volume For section, click Recording.
3. In the Show the Following Volume Controls section, click Line-in and Microphone.
4. Click OK to close the Properties dialog.
The recording controls appear in the Windows Mixer.
5. Click the Select check box under the input you wish to use (normally Line In or Mic).
To view the recording controls in Windows Vista:
1. Go to the Windows Start Menu and type the word SOUND in the Start Search box.