How do you record something without all the static?

Question

Like im planning to record something from the computer(sound only) but when i do, theres a whole bunch of static. How do i record it without allt he static, or how do i get rid of it?

Answer 1

Is it static, or is it background noise for the room? It's possible you just need a cardoid microphone. Almost all the low-cost microphones are omni-directional, meaning they pick up everything in the room.

ALSO possible you're trying to plug the PC audio output directly into a recorder's microphone input - but the signal is WAY too much signal for this (like 10,000 x too much!!) If you have a LINE input to the recorder, that is closer to the output level of the PC.

Other method is to get an audio pad device that lets you take a high-level signal, like the PC audio output, and cuts the signal down to a microphone level.  

Most electronics technicians could build you a little pad device inexpensively, or look at Radio Shack's Audio Dubbing Cable Catalog # 42-2152 - except you want the STEREO version, and I'm not sure they have that.  

I think this would work:  Radio Snack Catalog #: 274-375 adapter (two) amd two # 42-2152 cords..  Becomes an adapter that splits the stereo output to two mono outputs (one for each signal) and then two of the radio shack cables, and another dual mono to stereo adapter to plug into the recorder? Should work, control the recording level by adjusting the PC Audio Output.  

RadioShack does not say how much signal attenuation this cable provides, so it's a bit iffy..

An audio technician could rig up something for maybe  $30...  Two or 4 audio plugs, maybe two audio stereo jacks, a little metal box for it, and possible a dual volume control to set the audio level - that'd be extra cost.. The simple version with fixed low noise resistors shouldn't cost much.  

Also be aware that most inexpensive recorders have auto -level adjusting circuitry nowdays, so you may need to record a few times to find the correct audio level for your recording.  

Good luck!