Achieving Balanced Sound with VLC: An In-Depth Look at Volume Normalization

How To Normalize Volume in VLC

How to normalize volume, why should we do it, and what is it after all? – these are the questions when it comes to editing our audio files, as well as the video clips we tend to change the sound of. So, first of all, the volume normalization is pretty much explained as follows: The process when a constant amount of gain is applied to the audio recording, bringing the amplitude to a desirable level, which is “the norm” for the project. If it is a little bit difficult to understand, we have to highlight that when this tool is applied to our volume, the whole recording has the same amount of gain across it, every piece affected the same way. Accordingly, when we normalize volume, the relative dynamics are not changed.

But, why bother at all and why not leave it the way it is? Well, the answer to this is almost the same as on why editing exists in general, right? Things are not perfect! This is the fact that prompts us to make our video clips and audio better, improve it at least on the level which can get us the right amount of viewers and listeners. Everyone have had some pain listening to several podcasts, when the volume was too high or too low, or there were so much background noise that the whole recording was hurting the ears of a person! People will not convert to being loyal subscribers, viewers and listeners if their user experience is not favored. So, it is in our best interest to serve their best interest, with a little bit of editing.

When it comes to normalizing audio, there are two reasons we refer to this tool. First is when we feel we need to get the maximum volume, and the second is when we need to match different volumes.

In the first case, you might have somewhat quite voice recording, and would like to make it better without changing its dynamic range, while making it as loud as possible. And when it comes to matching volumes, it is logical that you need to manipulate your editing this way in case you have a group of audio files, each or some of them are at different volumes, so, understandably, if not necessarily, you would like to make them come closer to the same volume.

So, until we give you the step-by step guide on how to normalize your volume in VLC player, we also need to inform you about audio normalization types. Here, generally, we come across three of them: a so-called peak normalization, helping adjust the recording based on the highest signal level present in the recording; another is called loudness normalization and it adjusts the recording based on perceived loudness. Last but not least, RMS (Root-Mean-Square), changes the value of all the samples, where their average electrical volume overall is a specified level.

Using any of this, making it better to listen to your voice, without people being annoyed and their ears becoming exhausting with what you have to offer, you will be making it enjoyable for them and easy to come back to your content, as they will not be obliged to change the volume on their own audio players. Instead, their experience with you will be calm and effortless, which you are aiming to achieve.

So, not, what about VLC? – this is a very popular media player, favorite for a lot of people all around the world, so you should already be quite familiar with what it is, at least by having streamed videos and movies there. Speaking more of what it represents, it is a free-to-use, robust, and feature-packed software that plays a wide range of audio, image, and video files. It is worth noting that it can also play multimedia files directly from extractable devices or the PC and additionally, the program can stream from popular websites such as Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, and so on.

As if it was not enough, you can do simple video and audio editing in VLC Media Player, which a lot of people are unaware of! For example, you can easily trim and cut videos. So, as it happens, we can also normalize volume in VLC Media Player. It is a very handy feature and it works on Windows as well as on Mac. Sooo… How to do that? Because, actually, it is so simple that you might be surprised you didn’t know about this earlier. To learn how to normalize volume in VLC, follow this simple guideline:

First, of course, as every time working with any software, you need to have VLC Media Player installed on your device. Once you have it installed, open VLC. Go to the Tools and Preferences and there, you will need to check the single box which is next to Normalize volume in Effects. Now, set the level to the one that works best for you. Then, when you are happy with the result, you can Save.

This is not something perfect, because it’s so simple to do and actually what it does is just help adjust the general volume, so it leaves the specifics alone.

But, it might be the case that you are not so satisfied with the simple editing and want a little more to get from the editing process on VLC. So, you can do more with the Audio Effects menu there. And the steps are as follows:

First, on your VLC player, find Tools and then, in the menu, go to Preferences. The window will open, and there you need to select All in Show settings – actually it is a little bit hard to find because this is in the bottom left corner of the window. From there, you will need to navigate to Audio, and then, a little below, click on Filters and highlight it. The checkbox next to the Dynamic range compressor will probably be unchecked – so, check in it.

Next, see where Compressor is in the left panel? Select it. And now, you are free to make the changes to the levels as you see fit.

Here, if you are a little bit overwhelmed with the wide range of options to work on, you can just concentrate the most on Makeup gain, Threshold, and Ratio. The first one is by which you adjust in quiet sequences to raise the volume, the second will help you reduce louder sequences to even things out, and ratio is the maximum level of all audio within a movie, let’s say.

Don’t underestimate Attack time and release time, either. They graduate the changes to ramp them up at first, then down again, rather than initiating them immediately. So, if you set them to your liking as well, this will ensure that you have a more fluid transition in and out of the scene and there are less sudden, sometimes scary volume changes.

Therefore, you are now equipped with the most information you will need to normalize volume in VLC Player – so free to give it a go, play around with the different settings and carry out the best result imaginable for you!

How to normalize audio in Wondershare Filmora?

Now, even though we already know how to normalize audio in VLC in the simplest, as well as in the more advanced way, it might be even better if we know some more about normalizing audios in different programs. Something worth discussing is a software called Wondershare Filmora , which carries out the same task wonderfully. Although, unlike VLC Media Player, it is a real video editor , but don’t panic if you have never laid your hand on editing – it is one of the easiest to use ini the word, operating also both on Mac and Windows, and its interface is utterly understandable for beginners right away. And, actually, it is a qhile that Wondershare Filmora X introduced the feature to normalize the audio for the first time. What to say more - you might want to stop now and download the latest version of Filmora because now we are about to learn how to normalize audio from the video there – so, tune in!

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

When it is done installing, open the software. Now, click and drag the video of which the audio you want to normalize. Now you can select the clip you have chosen – if there are multiple, select all of them, then right-click and choose Detach Audio.

Now if you have this kind of graphic before your eyes, you can be pretty sure without even listening, that the noises are really, really different from each other, which highlights once again how useful audio normalization can be:

Select these files, right-click and choose Adjust Audio. New panel will be opened on left top and there, you will see Audio Normalization – check the box there.

After you have clicked on it, wait until the normalization completes.

Soon, all audio will be normalized, and you will already be able to see on the graphics that the volumes are almost on the same level and when you listen to it, you will make sure that there is no longer apparent difference between how they sound. And from there on, you can save the file you just normalized!

So, in this article, we learned a lot about normalizing volumes, why and how it is done, and, more specifically, how to get this task completed in VLC Media Player as well as in Wondershare Filmora X. you can proceed to putting this new information into a good use and come back to learn more about video and audio editing here!

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

When it is done installing, open the software. Now, click and drag the video of which the audio you want to normalize. Now you can select the clip you have chosen – if there are multiple, select all of them, then right-click and choose Detach Audio.

Now if you have this kind of graphic before your eyes, you can be pretty sure without even listening, that the noises are really, really different from each other, which highlights once again how useful audio normalization can be:

Select these files, right-click and choose Adjust Audio. New panel will be opened on left top and there, you will see Audio Normalization – check the box there.

After you have clicked on it, wait until the normalization completes.

Soon, all audio will be normalized, and you will already be able to see on the graphics that the volumes are almost on the same level and when you listen to it, you will make sure that there is no longer apparent difference between how they sound. And from there on, you can save the file you just normalized!

So, in this article, we learned a lot about normalizing volumes, why and how it is done, and, more specifically, how to get this task completed in VLC Media Player as well as in Wondershare Filmora X. you can proceed to putting this new information into a good use and come back to learn more about video and audio editing here!

The Audio Engineer’s Guide to Live Sound Management with OBS: Maximizing Your Broadcast Quality

How to Balance Your Stream Sound with OBS Audio Ducking?

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

Video making or filmmaking has now come to the level where the history of imperfections faded away a long time ago. Yes, while the animation is still ruling the floor, an inevitable back-end process might look off-screen and a little complicated. One such job is ducking sound that is the process of balancing voiceover and the background audio. If you aren’t a tech-savvy person, I hope to go in-depth isn’t needed, and hence we stop here. To depict how you need to work out this ducking music process, we have this post.

If you are a content creator, maybe you will be familiar with coordinating the right audio with the video. If not, it isn’t a problem anymore as I have included a detailed guide of implementing audio ducking in a step-wise way. With primary importance to the popular software OBS followed by a suitable alternative, let’s begin our article!

Part 1: How to Balance Your Stream Sound with OBS Audio Ducking?

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and open-source software reliable for Windows, Linux, and macOS 10.13+. With countless features like real video/audio capture, mixer, custom transitions, easy-to-use configurations, pre-source filters, VST plug-in support, noise suppression, and a lot more, you can accomplish audio ducking in OBS by adding a sidechain/ducking compression filter. Thus, perform OBS audio ducking in a clean manner by lowering the audio automatically once OBS detects audio on the other audio source.

Does this magic of OBS audio ducking seem new to you? It will not be anymore as the below step-by-step manual will guide you through the process.

Step 1: Add video files

Launch the OBS software on your system, and import the files into the workspace with the “File” menu. If you need to add voiceover from your microphone, you can click the “Start Recording” option under the main interface’s control section.

If the video plays on VLC in the background, it will appear on the mixer column.

Step 2: Choose filter and compressor

On the Settings icon next to the streaming video, click on it, and choose the “Filters” option from the drop-down.

You will reach the pop-up of the “Filters for Desktop Audio” whereby clicking on the “+” icon, choose the compressor option.

On the space bar, enter a name for the filter. For example, for ducking music, specify as “ducking,” and press “OK.”

Step 3: Change the parameters

You can now specify the values of the ratio, threshold, attack, release, output gain, and the ducking source, for example, “Mic” for microphone voiceover addition.

It’s complete. Yes, OBS audio ducking is over. Now you can check the video and alter the parameters if required after a preview.

Part 2: The Best Audio Ducking Alternative to OBS

Although OBS is preferable for being an open-source and free option with comprehensive abilities in video recording and live streaming strategies, the OBS ducking interface might seem a little unfriendly, making it difficult for newbies. Hence, we have come up with Wondershare Filmora in this session as the best alternative to Streamlabs OBS audio ducking. With an intuitive easy-to-use interface, and attractive video/audio features, Filmora stands as the recommended choice for professionals and beginners!

Developed for the inspired, Filmora follows its unique way of ducking sound, easy to handle for travel Vlogs, makeup tutorials, video lectures, presentations, and so on. Going through the below feature set can reveal why is Filmora is better than OBS.

• With simple steps, you can perform audio ducking in just on a single scale to attain the right audio balance on your video without complication.
• Get access to other in-built options like noise remover, after effects; fade in/out, equalizer, keyframing, and so on.
• Perfect your audio to the video along with tons of features like an audio mixer along with options like mute, detach, split, and background removal.
• Add voiceover, sprinkle magic with filters, detect beat, and create markers easily with Wondershare Filmora.

How to use the audio ducking feature in Wondershare Filmora?

Download and install Wondershare Filmora by clicking on the Try It Free button above. Once installed, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Launch the application

Open or launch the Wondershare Filmora application and choose “New Project“ or open the existing project from the primary dashboard.

Step 2: Import the video into the timeline

Drag the video file to which you need to balance the stream sound.

Another option to bring the video file into the timeline is by executing “File> Import Media> Import Media Files”.

Step 3: Ducking sound in the video

Select the clips with dialogue, whereby right-clicking or double-clicking on them, choose the “Adjust Audio” option.

On the following audio editing window, tick the “Lower the volume of other clips“ option to reduce background music or any other media volume.

Conclusion

I hope you have now come to know why ducking sound is a must and how well Streamlabs OBS and Wondershare Filmora carry out the job. Lastly, with the step-by-step guide to accomplish audio ducking with both the software, we can conclude that OBS performance is better, whereas Wondershare Filmora is the best choice in terms of interface and features!

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

Video making or filmmaking has now come to the level where the history of imperfections faded away a long time ago. Yes, while the animation is still ruling the floor, an inevitable back-end process might look off-screen and a little complicated. One such job is ducking sound that is the process of balancing voiceover and the background audio. If you aren’t a tech-savvy person, I hope to go in-depth isn’t needed, and hence we stop here. To depict how you need to work out this ducking music process, we have this post.

If you are a content creator, maybe you will be familiar with coordinating the right audio with the video. If not, it isn’t a problem anymore as I have included a detailed guide of implementing audio ducking in a step-wise way. With primary importance to the popular software OBS followed by a suitable alternative, let’s begin our article!

Part 1: How to Balance Your Stream Sound with OBS Audio Ducking?

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and open-source software reliable for Windows, Linux, and macOS 10.13+. With countless features like real video/audio capture, mixer, custom transitions, easy-to-use configurations, pre-source filters, VST plug-in support, noise suppression, and a lot more, you can accomplish audio ducking in OBS by adding a sidechain/ducking compression filter. Thus, perform OBS audio ducking in a clean manner by lowering the audio automatically once OBS detects audio on the other audio source.

Does this magic of OBS audio ducking seem new to you? It will not be anymore as the below step-by-step manual will guide you through the process.

Step 1: Add video files

Launch the OBS software on your system, and import the files into the workspace with the “File” menu. If you need to add voiceover from your microphone, you can click the “Start Recording” option under the main interface’s control section.

If the video plays on VLC in the background, it will appear on the mixer column.

Step 2: Choose filter and compressor

On the Settings icon next to the streaming video, click on it, and choose the “Filters” option from the drop-down.

You will reach the pop-up of the “Filters for Desktop Audio” whereby clicking on the “+” icon, choose the compressor option.

On the space bar, enter a name for the filter. For example, for ducking music, specify as “ducking,” and press “OK.”

Step 3: Change the parameters

You can now specify the values of the ratio, threshold, attack, release, output gain, and the ducking source, for example, “Mic” for microphone voiceover addition.

It’s complete. Yes, OBS audio ducking is over. Now you can check the video and alter the parameters if required after a preview.

Part 2: The Best Audio Ducking Alternative to OBS

Although OBS is preferable for being an open-source and free option with comprehensive abilities in video recording and live streaming strategies, the OBS ducking interface might seem a little unfriendly, making it difficult for newbies. Hence, we have come up with Wondershare Filmora in this session as the best alternative to Streamlabs OBS audio ducking. With an intuitive easy-to-use interface, and attractive video/audio features, Filmora stands as the recommended choice for professionals and beginners!

Developed for the inspired, Filmora follows its unique way of ducking sound, easy to handle for travel Vlogs, makeup tutorials, video lectures, presentations, and so on. Going through the below feature set can reveal why is Filmora is better than OBS.

• With simple steps, you can perform audio ducking in just on a single scale to attain the right audio balance on your video without complication.
• Get access to other in-built options like noise remover, after effects; fade in/out, equalizer, keyframing, and so on.
• Perfect your audio to the video along with tons of features like an audio mixer along with options like mute, detach, split, and background removal.
• Add voiceover, sprinkle magic with filters, detect beat, and create markers easily with Wondershare Filmora.

How to use the audio ducking feature in Wondershare Filmora?

Download and install Wondershare Filmora by clicking on the Try It Free button above. Once installed, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Launch the application

Open or launch the Wondershare Filmora application and choose “New Project“ or open the existing project from the primary dashboard.

Step 2: Import the video into the timeline

Drag the video file to which you need to balance the stream sound.

Another option to bring the video file into the timeline is by executing “File> Import Media> Import Media Files”.

Step 3: Ducking sound in the video

Select the clips with dialogue, whereby right-clicking or double-clicking on them, choose the “Adjust Audio” option.

On the following audio editing window, tick the “Lower the volume of other clips“ option to reduce background music or any other media volume.

Conclusion

I hope you have now come to know why ducking sound is a must and how well Streamlabs OBS and Wondershare Filmora carry out the job. Lastly, with the step-by-step guide to accomplish audio ducking with both the software, we can conclude that OBS performance is better, whereas Wondershare Filmora is the best choice in terms of interface and features!

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

Video making or filmmaking has now come to the level where the history of imperfections faded away a long time ago. Yes, while the animation is still ruling the floor, an inevitable back-end process might look off-screen and a little complicated. One such job is ducking sound that is the process of balancing voiceover and the background audio. If you aren’t a tech-savvy person, I hope to go in-depth isn’t needed, and hence we stop here. To depict how you need to work out this ducking music process, we have this post.

If you are a content creator, maybe you will be familiar with coordinating the right audio with the video. If not, it isn’t a problem anymore as I have included a detailed guide of implementing audio ducking in a step-wise way. With primary importance to the popular software OBS followed by a suitable alternative, let’s begin our article!

Part 1: How to Balance Your Stream Sound with OBS Audio Ducking?

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and open-source software reliable for Windows, Linux, and macOS 10.13+. With countless features like real video/audio capture, mixer, custom transitions, easy-to-use configurations, pre-source filters, VST plug-in support, noise suppression, and a lot more, you can accomplish audio ducking in OBS by adding a sidechain/ducking compression filter. Thus, perform OBS audio ducking in a clean manner by lowering the audio automatically once OBS detects audio on the other audio source.

Does this magic of OBS audio ducking seem new to you? It will not be anymore as the below step-by-step manual will guide you through the process.

Step 1: Add video files

Launch the OBS software on your system, and import the files into the workspace with the “File” menu. If you need to add voiceover from your microphone, you can click the “Start Recording” option under the main interface’s control section.

If the video plays on VLC in the background, it will appear on the mixer column.

Step 2: Choose filter and compressor

On the Settings icon next to the streaming video, click on it, and choose the “Filters” option from the drop-down.

You will reach the pop-up of the “Filters for Desktop Audio” whereby clicking on the “+” icon, choose the compressor option.

On the space bar, enter a name for the filter. For example, for ducking music, specify as “ducking,” and press “OK.”

Step 3: Change the parameters

You can now specify the values of the ratio, threshold, attack, release, output gain, and the ducking source, for example, “Mic” for microphone voiceover addition.

It’s complete. Yes, OBS audio ducking is over. Now you can check the video and alter the parameters if required after a preview.

Part 2: The Best Audio Ducking Alternative to OBS

Although OBS is preferable for being an open-source and free option with comprehensive abilities in video recording and live streaming strategies, the OBS ducking interface might seem a little unfriendly, making it difficult for newbies. Hence, we have come up with Wondershare Filmora in this session as the best alternative to Streamlabs OBS audio ducking. With an intuitive easy-to-use interface, and attractive video/audio features, Filmora stands as the recommended choice for professionals and beginners!

Developed for the inspired, Filmora follows its unique way of ducking sound, easy to handle for travel Vlogs, makeup tutorials, video lectures, presentations, and so on. Going through the below feature set can reveal why is Filmora is better than OBS.

• With simple steps, you can perform audio ducking in just on a single scale to attain the right audio balance on your video without complication.
• Get access to other in-built options like noise remover, after effects; fade in/out, equalizer, keyframing, and so on.
• Perfect your audio to the video along with tons of features like an audio mixer along with options like mute, detach, split, and background removal.
• Add voiceover, sprinkle magic with filters, detect beat, and create markers easily with Wondershare Filmora.

How to use the audio ducking feature in Wondershare Filmora?

Download and install Wondershare Filmora by clicking on the Try It Free button above. Once installed, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Launch the application

Open or launch the Wondershare Filmora application and choose “New Project“ or open the existing project from the primary dashboard.

Step 2: Import the video into the timeline

Drag the video file to which you need to balance the stream sound.

Another option to bring the video file into the timeline is by executing “File> Import Media> Import Media Files”.

Step 3: Ducking sound in the video

Select the clips with dialogue, whereby right-clicking or double-clicking on them, choose the “Adjust Audio” option.

On the following audio editing window, tick the “Lower the volume of other clips“ option to reduce background music or any other media volume.

Conclusion

I hope you have now come to know why ducking sound is a must and how well Streamlabs OBS and Wondershare Filmora carry out the job. Lastly, with the step-by-step guide to accomplish audio ducking with both the software, we can conclude that OBS performance is better, whereas Wondershare Filmora is the best choice in terms of interface and features!

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

Video making or filmmaking has now come to the level where the history of imperfections faded away a long time ago. Yes, while the animation is still ruling the floor, an inevitable back-end process might look off-screen and a little complicated. One such job is ducking sound that is the process of balancing voiceover and the background audio. If you aren’t a tech-savvy person, I hope to go in-depth isn’t needed, and hence we stop here. To depict how you need to work out this ducking music process, we have this post.

If you are a content creator, maybe you will be familiar with coordinating the right audio with the video. If not, it isn’t a problem anymore as I have included a detailed guide of implementing audio ducking in a step-wise way. With primary importance to the popular software OBS followed by a suitable alternative, let’s begin our article!

Part 1: How to Balance Your Stream Sound with OBS Audio Ducking?

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and open-source software reliable for Windows, Linux, and macOS 10.13+. With countless features like real video/audio capture, mixer, custom transitions, easy-to-use configurations, pre-source filters, VST plug-in support, noise suppression, and a lot more, you can accomplish audio ducking in OBS by adding a sidechain/ducking compression filter. Thus, perform OBS audio ducking in a clean manner by lowering the audio automatically once OBS detects audio on the other audio source.

Does this magic of OBS audio ducking seem new to you? It will not be anymore as the below step-by-step manual will guide you through the process.

Step 1: Add video files

Launch the OBS software on your system, and import the files into the workspace with the “File” menu. If you need to add voiceover from your microphone, you can click the “Start Recording” option under the main interface’s control section.

If the video plays on VLC in the background, it will appear on the mixer column.

Step 2: Choose filter and compressor

On the Settings icon next to the streaming video, click on it, and choose the “Filters” option from the drop-down.

You will reach the pop-up of the “Filters for Desktop Audio” whereby clicking on the “+” icon, choose the compressor option.

On the space bar, enter a name for the filter. For example, for ducking music, specify as “ducking,” and press “OK.”

Step 3: Change the parameters

You can now specify the values of the ratio, threshold, attack, release, output gain, and the ducking source, for example, “Mic” for microphone voiceover addition.

It’s complete. Yes, OBS audio ducking is over. Now you can check the video and alter the parameters if required after a preview.

Part 2: The Best Audio Ducking Alternative to OBS

Although OBS is preferable for being an open-source and free option with comprehensive abilities in video recording and live streaming strategies, the OBS ducking interface might seem a little unfriendly, making it difficult for newbies. Hence, we have come up with Wondershare Filmora in this session as the best alternative to Streamlabs OBS audio ducking. With an intuitive easy-to-use interface, and attractive video/audio features, Filmora stands as the recommended choice for professionals and beginners!

Developed for the inspired, Filmora follows its unique way of ducking sound, easy to handle for travel Vlogs, makeup tutorials, video lectures, presentations, and so on. Going through the below feature set can reveal why is Filmora is better than OBS.

• With simple steps, you can perform audio ducking in just on a single scale to attain the right audio balance on your video without complication.
• Get access to other in-built options like noise remover, after effects; fade in/out, equalizer, keyframing, and so on.
• Perfect your audio to the video along with tons of features like an audio mixer along with options like mute, detach, split, and background removal.
• Add voiceover, sprinkle magic with filters, detect beat, and create markers easily with Wondershare Filmora.

How to use the audio ducking feature in Wondershare Filmora?

Download and install Wondershare Filmora by clicking on the Try It Free button above. Once installed, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Launch the application

Open or launch the Wondershare Filmora application and choose “New Project“ or open the existing project from the primary dashboard.

Step 2: Import the video into the timeline

Drag the video file to which you need to balance the stream sound.

Another option to bring the video file into the timeline is by executing “File> Import Media> Import Media Files”.

Step 3: Ducking sound in the video

Select the clips with dialogue, whereby right-clicking or double-clicking on them, choose the “Adjust Audio” option.

On the following audio editing window, tick the “Lower the volume of other clips“ option to reduce background music or any other media volume.

Conclusion

I hope you have now come to know why ducking sound is a must and how well Streamlabs OBS and Wondershare Filmora carry out the job. Lastly, with the step-by-step guide to accomplish audio ducking with both the software, we can conclude that OBS performance is better, whereas Wondershare Filmora is the best choice in terms of interface and features!

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

From Amateur to Pro: Learning Audacity’s Audio Recording Without Investment

Natural audio recording software, such as Voice Memos for Macs or Sound Recorder for Windows PCs, is included with every machine. These applications enable users to record audio using either the desktop’s internal or an external microphone, and they generally have basic audio editing features.

However, when you’re looking for a higher-quality recording program, Audacity is the way to go. Audacity is a free audio editor with a lot of cutting-edge features. More significantly, recording using Audacity is as simple as clicking a button.

In this Audacity Record Computer Audio guide, we will show you all the methods of recording internal audio on your computer and Mac.

In this article

01 Record Audio On Audacity with a Microphone

02 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Win

03 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac

04 Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule

Part 1: How to Record Audio On Audacity with a Microphone On Windows and Mac Computers?

For both Windows and Mac, the procedures for recording audio from a microphone are the same if you’re utilizing your desktop’s built-in mic or an external microphone. Here’s your step-by-step guide to audacity record using a microphone:

Step 1: Launch Audacity and get to know the Device Toolbar, situated underneath the playback controls. You may modify the Audio Host and the Recording and Playback Devices—all of which are required for Audacity recording.

Step 2: To begin, select Tracks under the Add New tab, Stereo Track, or Mono Track to create a new track.

Step 3: Select Recording Device from the options list. Select your microphone from the dropdown menu and hit the Record option.

Step 4: A soundwave emerges along the track as you talk into the speaker. The Recording Level may be found at the top of the display. To pause or stop the recording, click Stop or Pause until you select Record anew.

Step 5: With the mouse over any recording area, click the Delete button to cut out any portion of it quickly. Click Ctrl + A, then Delete to erase whatever you’ve just saved. Alternatively, press the X button to delete the track completely.

Part 2: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity On Windows?

Unlike Mac, Windows makes it simple to capture audio from a movie or media file running on your desktop. There seem to be two primary methods for accomplishing audacity record desktop audio in this way:

1. Use MME as the Audio Host

Step 1: To use MME as your audio host, go to Tracks in the Add New tab in Stereo Track and create a new file.

Step 2: Change the Audio Host (to the left of Recording Device) to MME—this is the standard setting, so you might not have to change anything.

Step 3: Choose desired option from the Recording Device dropdown menu. Based on your configuration, this might be referred to as Wave Out or Loopback. When you’re uncertain, try it out.

Step 4: To record your audio source, click Record, then play it back.

2. Use WASAPI as the Audio Host

WASAPI provides higher-resolution digital recordings. If capturing audio from an external monitor, it’s also a good idea to utilize it.

Step 1: Convert the Audio Host from MME to Windows WASAPI after creating a fresh Stereo Track.

Step 2: Switch the Recording Device to Speaker (loopback). To display the entire label, you might have to slide the toolbar’s knobs outwards. Begin recording by pressing the red dot and then listen to the audio source. Audacity will capture the audio even if your PC is muted.

Part 3: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac?

Unfortunately, there’s no ready-made method to record computer audio using Audacity on a Mac. Some alternative ways to use Audacity to record from Mac including using a loopback cable, or download and using a third-party software. You can try some Audacity alternatives to record the computer audio on Mac.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

If you have installed Filmora already, you can use it to record the sound playing on your Mac with some tricks.

Step 1: Luanch Filmora, and then click the Record button and select Record PC Screen.

Step 2: Set up the recording settings based on the need. Since we’re going to record the playing audio from the Mac computer, select Microphone and System Audio On and click the Red button to start.

Step 3: Now you have a screen captured video with sound included. Since we need th audio only, we can attache the audio from the video first and then do some editing such as adding fade in and fade out effect, or remove unwanted audio clip.

Part 4: How to Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule?

A streaming video recorder or cassette can be used to arrange a recording. All of those are identical to Time Recordings in that they are used to schedule recording. The Timer record configuration dialog box may be used to set the beginning and finish of the recording. This is how you do it:

Step 1: By definition, the recording’s Start Date and Time are set to the present time. It will begin recording on the present day and hour by default when you don’t alter it. There is no default setting for the End Date and Time. You must either choose a date and time to determine the end time.

Step 2: There is a Checkbox to Save the work immediately. By Ticking the option, you may choose the path or Folder where the file will be saved when the recording is finished.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it – your complete Audacity Record Computer Audio guide. One thing is for certain that Audacity allows some great ways of recording audio from internal and external components of your Windows and Mac. However, if your Audacity is having issues, we would highly recommend opting for another software, such as Wondershare Filmora.

Wondershare Filmora is the finest thing that has come out in recent years for recording audio from a desktop. It is intended not just for pros but also for any enthusiast videographer who desires to create a high-quality movie for their family and friends. Download it today to make your movie a delightful journey with high-quality audio recording.

02 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Win

03 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac

04 Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule

Part 1: How to Record Audio On Audacity with a Microphone On Windows and Mac Computers?

For both Windows and Mac, the procedures for recording audio from a microphone are the same if you’re utilizing your desktop’s built-in mic or an external microphone. Here’s your step-by-step guide to audacity record using a microphone:

Step 1: Launch Audacity and get to know the Device Toolbar, situated underneath the playback controls. You may modify the Audio Host and the Recording and Playback Devices—all of which are required for Audacity recording.

Step 2: To begin, select Tracks under the Add New tab, Stereo Track, or Mono Track to create a new track.

Step 3: Select Recording Device from the options list. Select your microphone from the dropdown menu and hit the Record option.

Step 4: A soundwave emerges along the track as you talk into the speaker. The Recording Level may be found at the top of the display. To pause or stop the recording, click Stop or Pause until you select Record anew.

Step 5: With the mouse over any recording area, click the Delete button to cut out any portion of it quickly. Click Ctrl + A, then Delete to erase whatever you’ve just saved. Alternatively, press the X button to delete the track completely.

Part 2: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity On Windows?

Unlike Mac, Windows makes it simple to capture audio from a movie or media file running on your desktop. There seem to be two primary methods for accomplishing audacity record desktop audio in this way:

1. Use MME as the Audio Host

Step 1: To use MME as your audio host, go to Tracks in the Add New tab in Stereo Track and create a new file.

Step 2: Change the Audio Host (to the left of Recording Device) to MME—this is the standard setting, so you might not have to change anything.

Step 3: Choose desired option from the Recording Device dropdown menu. Based on your configuration, this might be referred to as Wave Out or Loopback. When you’re uncertain, try it out.

Step 4: To record your audio source, click Record, then play it back.

2. Use WASAPI as the Audio Host

WASAPI provides higher-resolution digital recordings. If capturing audio from an external monitor, it’s also a good idea to utilize it.

Step 1: Convert the Audio Host from MME to Windows WASAPI after creating a fresh Stereo Track.

Step 2: Switch the Recording Device to Speaker (loopback). To display the entire label, you might have to slide the toolbar’s knobs outwards. Begin recording by pressing the red dot and then listen to the audio source. Audacity will capture the audio even if your PC is muted.

Part 3: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac?

Unfortunately, there’s no ready-made method to record computer audio using Audacity on a Mac. Some alternative ways to use Audacity to record from Mac including using a loopback cable, or download and using a third-party software. You can try some Audacity alternatives to record the computer audio on Mac.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

If you have installed Filmora already, you can use it to record the sound playing on your Mac with some tricks.

Step 1: Luanch Filmora, and then click the Record button and select Record PC Screen.

Step 2: Set up the recording settings based on the need. Since we’re going to record the playing audio from the Mac computer, select Microphone and System Audio On and click the Red button to start.

Step 3: Now you have a screen captured video with sound included. Since we need th audio only, we can attache the audio from the video first and then do some editing such as adding fade in and fade out effect, or remove unwanted audio clip.

Part 4: How to Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule?

A streaming video recorder or cassette can be used to arrange a recording. All of those are identical to Time Recordings in that they are used to schedule recording. The Timer record configuration dialog box may be used to set the beginning and finish of the recording. This is how you do it:

Step 1: By definition, the recording’s Start Date and Time are set to the present time. It will begin recording on the present day and hour by default when you don’t alter it. There is no default setting for the End Date and Time. You must either choose a date and time to determine the end time.

Step 2: There is a Checkbox to Save the work immediately. By Ticking the option, you may choose the path or Folder where the file will be saved when the recording is finished.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it – your complete Audacity Record Computer Audio guide. One thing is for certain that Audacity allows some great ways of recording audio from internal and external components of your Windows and Mac. However, if your Audacity is having issues, we would highly recommend opting for another software, such as Wondershare Filmora.

Wondershare Filmora is the finest thing that has come out in recent years for recording audio from a desktop. It is intended not just for pros but also for any enthusiast videographer who desires to create a high-quality movie for their family and friends. Download it today to make your movie a delightful journey with high-quality audio recording.

02 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Win

03 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac

04 Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule

Part 1: How to Record Audio On Audacity with a Microphone On Windows and Mac Computers?

For both Windows and Mac, the procedures for recording audio from a microphone are the same if you’re utilizing your desktop’s built-in mic or an external microphone. Here’s your step-by-step guide to audacity record using a microphone:

Step 1: Launch Audacity and get to know the Device Toolbar, situated underneath the playback controls. You may modify the Audio Host and the Recording and Playback Devices—all of which are required for Audacity recording.

Step 2: To begin, select Tracks under the Add New tab, Stereo Track, or Mono Track to create a new track.

Step 3: Select Recording Device from the options list. Select your microphone from the dropdown menu and hit the Record option.

Step 4: A soundwave emerges along the track as you talk into the speaker. The Recording Level may be found at the top of the display. To pause or stop the recording, click Stop or Pause until you select Record anew.

Step 5: With the mouse over any recording area, click the Delete button to cut out any portion of it quickly. Click Ctrl + A, then Delete to erase whatever you’ve just saved. Alternatively, press the X button to delete the track completely.

Part 2: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity On Windows?

Unlike Mac, Windows makes it simple to capture audio from a movie or media file running on your desktop. There seem to be two primary methods for accomplishing audacity record desktop audio in this way:

1. Use MME as the Audio Host

Step 1: To use MME as your audio host, go to Tracks in the Add New tab in Stereo Track and create a new file.

Step 2: Change the Audio Host (to the left of Recording Device) to MME—this is the standard setting, so you might not have to change anything.

Step 3: Choose desired option from the Recording Device dropdown menu. Based on your configuration, this might be referred to as Wave Out or Loopback. When you’re uncertain, try it out.

Step 4: To record your audio source, click Record, then play it back.

2. Use WASAPI as the Audio Host

WASAPI provides higher-resolution digital recordings. If capturing audio from an external monitor, it’s also a good idea to utilize it.

Step 1: Convert the Audio Host from MME to Windows WASAPI after creating a fresh Stereo Track.

Step 2: Switch the Recording Device to Speaker (loopback). To display the entire label, you might have to slide the toolbar’s knobs outwards. Begin recording by pressing the red dot and then listen to the audio source. Audacity will capture the audio even if your PC is muted.

Part 3: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac?

Unfortunately, there’s no ready-made method to record computer audio using Audacity on a Mac. Some alternative ways to use Audacity to record from Mac including using a loopback cable, or download and using a third-party software. You can try some Audacity alternatives to record the computer audio on Mac.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

If you have installed Filmora already, you can use it to record the sound playing on your Mac with some tricks.

Step 1: Luanch Filmora, and then click the Record button and select Record PC Screen.

Step 2: Set up the recording settings based on the need. Since we’re going to record the playing audio from the Mac computer, select Microphone and System Audio On and click the Red button to start.

Step 3: Now you have a screen captured video with sound included. Since we need th audio only, we can attache the audio from the video first and then do some editing such as adding fade in and fade out effect, or remove unwanted audio clip.

Part 4: How to Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule?

A streaming video recorder or cassette can be used to arrange a recording. All of those are identical to Time Recordings in that they are used to schedule recording. The Timer record configuration dialog box may be used to set the beginning and finish of the recording. This is how you do it:

Step 1: By definition, the recording’s Start Date and Time are set to the present time. It will begin recording on the present day and hour by default when you don’t alter it. There is no default setting for the End Date and Time. You must either choose a date and time to determine the end time.

Step 2: There is a Checkbox to Save the work immediately. By Ticking the option, you may choose the path or Folder where the file will be saved when the recording is finished.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it – your complete Audacity Record Computer Audio guide. One thing is for certain that Audacity allows some great ways of recording audio from internal and external components of your Windows and Mac. However, if your Audacity is having issues, we would highly recommend opting for another software, such as Wondershare Filmora.

Wondershare Filmora is the finest thing that has come out in recent years for recording audio from a desktop. It is intended not just for pros but also for any enthusiast videographer who desires to create a high-quality movie for their family and friends. Download it today to make your movie a delightful journey with high-quality audio recording.

02 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Win

03 Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac

04 Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule

Part 1: How to Record Audio On Audacity with a Microphone On Windows and Mac Computers?

For both Windows and Mac, the procedures for recording audio from a microphone are the same if you’re utilizing your desktop’s built-in mic or an external microphone. Here’s your step-by-step guide to audacity record using a microphone:

Step 1: Launch Audacity and get to know the Device Toolbar, situated underneath the playback controls. You may modify the Audio Host and the Recording and Playback Devices—all of which are required for Audacity recording.

Step 2: To begin, select Tracks under the Add New tab, Stereo Track, or Mono Track to create a new track.

Step 3: Select Recording Device from the options list. Select your microphone from the dropdown menu and hit the Record option.

Step 4: A soundwave emerges along the track as you talk into the speaker. The Recording Level may be found at the top of the display. To pause or stop the recording, click Stop or Pause until you select Record anew.

Step 5: With the mouse over any recording area, click the Delete button to cut out any portion of it quickly. Click Ctrl + A, then Delete to erase whatever you’ve just saved. Alternatively, press the X button to delete the track completely.

Part 2: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity On Windows?

Unlike Mac, Windows makes it simple to capture audio from a movie or media file running on your desktop. There seem to be two primary methods for accomplishing audacity record desktop audio in this way:

1. Use MME as the Audio Host

Step 1: To use MME as your audio host, go to Tracks in the Add New tab in Stereo Track and create a new file.

Step 2: Change the Audio Host (to the left of Recording Device) to MME—this is the standard setting, so you might not have to change anything.

Step 3: Choose desired option from the Recording Device dropdown menu. Based on your configuration, this might be referred to as Wave Out or Loopback. When you’re uncertain, try it out.

Step 4: To record your audio source, click Record, then play it back.

2. Use WASAPI as the Audio Host

WASAPI provides higher-resolution digital recordings. If capturing audio from an external monitor, it’s also a good idea to utilize it.

Step 1: Convert the Audio Host from MME to Windows WASAPI after creating a fresh Stereo Track.

Step 2: Switch the Recording Device to Speaker (loopback). To display the entire label, you might have to slide the toolbar’s knobs outwards. Begin recording by pressing the red dot and then listen to the audio source. Audacity will capture the audio even if your PC is muted.

Part 3: How to Record Sounds Playing on Your Computer Using Audacity on Mac?

Unfortunately, there’s no ready-made method to record computer audio using Audacity on a Mac. Some alternative ways to use Audacity to record from Mac including using a loopback cable, or download and using a third-party software. You can try some Audacity alternatives to record the computer audio on Mac.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

If you have installed Filmora already, you can use it to record the sound playing on your Mac with some tricks.

Step 1: Luanch Filmora, and then click the Record button and select Record PC Screen.

Step 2: Set up the recording settings based on the need. Since we’re going to record the playing audio from the Mac computer, select Microphone and System Audio On and click the Red button to start.

Step 3: Now you have a screen captured video with sound included. Since we need th audio only, we can attache the audio from the video first and then do some editing such as adding fade in and fade out effect, or remove unwanted audio clip.

Part 4: How to Set up Audacity to Record as Schedule?

A streaming video recorder or cassette can be used to arrange a recording. All of those are identical to Time Recordings in that they are used to schedule recording. The Timer record configuration dialog box may be used to set the beginning and finish of the recording. This is how you do it:

Step 1: By definition, the recording’s Start Date and Time are set to the present time. It will begin recording on the present day and hour by default when you don’t alter it. There is no default setting for the End Date and Time. You must either choose a date and time to determine the end time.

Step 2: There is a Checkbox to Save the work immediately. By Ticking the option, you may choose the path or Folder where the file will be saved when the recording is finished.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it – your complete Audacity Record Computer Audio guide. One thing is for certain that Audacity allows some great ways of recording audio from internal and external components of your Windows and Mac. However, if your Audacity is having issues, we would highly recommend opting for another software, such as Wondershare Filmora.

Wondershare Filmora is the finest thing that has come out in recent years for recording audio from a desktop. It is intended not just for pros but also for any enthusiast videographer who desires to create a high-quality movie for their family and friends. Download it today to make your movie a delightful journey with high-quality audio recording.

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