Gain Staging for Voice Recording

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Objective

I can demonstrate how to set appropriate gain levels for voice recording using audio equipment.

Part 1 of 3

Warm-up video

Unknown Channel · 5:00

We don't generate video — this one is by Unknown Channel on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

7 questions

1

What is gain in the context of audio recording, and why is it important to adjust it for voice recording?

2

Describe the three main factors that affect how you set the gain on a preamp for voice recording.

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

You are recording a podcast and your voice fluctuates between quiet and loud. If you set your gain level to peak at -10 dB, explain how this setting provides headroom and what might happen if your voice peaks above this level. While recording a voiceover for a video, you notice that the speaker is positioned 3 feet away from the microphone and speaks softly. If you adjust the gain to peak at -15 dB, describe the implications of this setting for the recording quality, including potential issues if the speaker suddenly raises their volume.

Sample answer included in the free materials

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