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Microphone and speakers Apologies for putting the 'techy' bit first - but you will need a microphone and some form of amplification. If you have a computer, microphone and speakers attached - you're ready to begin. If not...read on. The microphone socket will be found usually at the back of the computer in the sound card. Look for three or four small holes in line. The microphone socket is often marked as 'mic' or with a microphone symbol.  Any microphone will do - including computer microphones (although a long lead to enable working with a large group is an advantage). If your microphone has a large jack plug - a converter can be bought for around £1 from electrical or computer outlets. If you have a stereo microphone, a Y-splitter adapter can be purchased for around £1.50. The speaker socket (sound out) is usually next to the microphone socket (there are sockets for sound in and sound out). For small spaces the computer speakers may be sufficient. For personal use - headphones could be used. For classrooms or large halls however - powered speakers, school amplifiers/PAs, old amps and speakers from parents attics or the school's HI-Fi system are all possible ways of amplifying the sound. You will require a lead from the computer to the amplifier - and as with the microphone socket, you will probably require a large to small jack converter. (If you have difficulties with electrical supplies, try Studio Spares T: 08456 441020 for powered speakers, microphones and adapters). SOUND RECORDER: Where can I find the sound recorder? Go to 'Start' - `Programs' - `Accessories' - `Entertainment' - 'Sound Recorder'
Sound Quality In Sound Recorder, go to drop down menu - 'File' then: 'Properties' then 'Convert Now'. Click on options by 'Name' to select quality. CD quality offers the best recording quality. Recorder buttons Most children will be able to say what these buttons will do - before being told. Hover over the buttons for a description. They are in order from left to right ' Back to Beginning' - Go to end' - 'Play' - 'Stop' and 'Record' Recording Begin with something simple - for instance asking the children to say their names. Watch the green line respond to dynamics as the recording is made. Once a recording is made it can be played instantly. By scrolling from left to right parts of the recording can be found. Editing Go to the drop down menu and find 'Delete before current position' and 'Delete after current position'. By scrolling to a point in the recording, parts of the recording can be deleted (the beginning and end of a recording). Tip (advanced users): To delete in the middle of a recording, save the file under two names. Delete up to the point you wish to delete on one, and after on another. Open one file then go to 'Edit' and 'Mix with file' or 'Insert file' to place the other recording appropriately by scrolling. Effects This is where the fun is to be had. Try recording unusual, imitative or everyday sounds then altering the sounds. Increasing or decreasing speed will also affect pitch (see if the children can identify what has happened before telling them). Reversing sounds such as a single long triangle or cymbal sound can be very effective. Try saying someone's name backwards - then reversing to see if it sounds correct. By mixing with other files (under 'Edit') it is possible to create simple sound stories. Warning - the recorder can run out of memory quickly - especially when mixing files. This doesn't mean your computer has run out of memory - but is a downside to this programme.(See alternative programmes below) Appraisal and records Try recording a verse of a song (or a composition, short performance) - and ask the children to listen and suggest ways they might improve their vocal (other) technique - such as clarity, singing together, maintaining a steady beat, emphasising certain words, not shouting, etc. Record again - and play back to note improvement. Save such recordings as a record. Possibly play again later in the year to note improvements in individual, group or class performance. Saving Saving files is the same as in other programmes. Go to 'File' - 'Save as' and give the file a name. Notice the extension for the files is '.wav'. This will save in wave format - very useful for importing/exporting to and from other programmes. The files can be stored anywhere - but I would suggest setting up a document folder in 'My Documents'. NB: The files are often large - and may not therefore always save to a floppy disc. Other free audio-editing programmes 'Audacity' , and
Cool Edit 96 (a cut-down version of 'Cool Edit 2000' - now no longer available). Both programmes offer extended recording times and excellent editing and mixing facilities. Audacity is easier and more flexible but suffers 'latency' problems with occasional jumps in recording and playback.
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