Getting+A+Level+on+an+External+Microphone

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= = =Microphone Sound Check=

//Doing a sound check on a real instrument track for audio when using a microphone//:

1. Assuming you have correctly connected your microphone into your computer or interface, check the volume level of the microphone in the VU meter in the GB window while speaking or singing at the level of your loudest vocal performance.



2. Check your position or proximity to the microphone capsule at the same time you are checking the VU meter. You must try to maintain that same position during recording. A good rule of of thumb to start with is approximately 5-6" distance between your mouth and the mic.

3. Check that your Input Source recognizes and shows the microphone you are using, or choose it in the Instrument Information "Input Source" drop-down menu. Try to maintain a signal strength of between 50-80%. Stay in the green portion of VU meter. Do not go into clipping (red in the VU) where distortion occurs.



4. Adjust the slider control of the Recording Level or click to select the Automatic Level Control. This will function to adjust the strength of your microphone signal as you view the VU meter.