Audio Recording of Your Presentations

I haven't but I like the concept. I usually use a Macbook pro with garage band and final cut for audio and video editing. I am sure others have better recommendations. Just like video, a sound bite, I believe, will enhance any website.

I'm with Jim on this one for my Mac laptop, although I have used Audacity with my PC. Both have worked well so far!

Hi Debbie, not sure if you are asking more about the actual recording equipment or the editing.

I'm thinking here for workshops or keynote, it depends on the mic. I invested in an AudioTechnica microphone even for podcasts and it's directional, so I don't pick up a lot of other sounds. I'm sure there are others on Biznik that know much more about the audio end of things than I do!

And yes, as Sue said, for editing, Audacity works great for audio.

The microphone and how you capture your sound is more important than the software used to edit the audio. If you don't capture in high quality, you can't do much to fix it. You might want to call in a pro if the presentation is important since you probably have more important things to worry about, like the presentation itself. Let a qualified technician worry about the technical stuff so you can concentrate on your message.

I would suggest using a lavaliere (wireless) microphone - any name brand (i.e. from a professional audio equipment company not an electronics store) will work fine. A good mic costs a minimum of $100.00. Handheld is also fine but may be more a hinderance for your talks. You can browse www.sweetwater.com and pick your gear; they have helpful tech support also.

As far as recording setup/ software you should get a portable digital recorder (cost: few hundred dollars min) with an input that your mic can plug into. You will be recording to the portable device and exporting the audio files to your Mac/GarageBand.

When you buy this gear, you will of course need to speak with an audio professional to make sure all the items you are purchasing are compatible.

Good luck!

I agree with Sabrina, you'll want a hard-wired lavalier, probably an extra cable and a portable digital recorder. There are many affordable portable recorders out there for exactly your purposes.

Here's a few reviews: http://forums.oreilly.com/content/Audio-Community/20/Portable-Digital-Recorders/

Just be sure not to skimp on the mic...pay a little more for a good one. You could also check B&H, Markertek, Full Compass or Musician's Friend for pro audio gear.