input output simultaneous record

[zhnthebox]

i am currently running windows XP and have been trying to record both my voice and the voice of others when we create conference calls through Skype but so far have failed in all of my endeavors, would someone mind helping me out? thanks so much
running Realtek HD soundboard

[Gale Andrews]

It's difficult to record VoIP (internet) calls with Audacity (or with other
recording programs which use the soundcard) because you need to
record both sides of the conversation simultaneously: a) the microphone
input and b) the computer output, and most sound cards (and Audacity)
can only record one source at a time.

There is this possibility to record Skype directly into Audacity on Windows (or it can work on some Linux versions). Note that recording can still freeze after a while and it may be difficult to get the recorded volume of both parties at the same level. What you have to do is unmute the microphone as a playback device in the system mixer, then set the recording input selector on Audacity's Mixer Toolbar
http://audacityteam.org/onlinehelp-1.2/ ... _mixer.htm

to "stereo mix", "wave out", "loopback", "what u hear" or comparable source
for recording the mixed computer output containing your voice and that of the person you are calling. Make sure you use headphones, but not a combined USB headset with microphone, as this process won't work with those. A headset with microphone that has separate cables for line-out and microphone is suitable.

If this does not work for you, it's really much better you use a specialised recording program meant for VoIP. Skype does have its own plugin called Pamela:
http://www.pamela-systems.com/products/

Another similar Skype recording program is Powergramo:
http://www.powergramo.com

Providing you save as a WAV, MP3 or OGG Audacity can then edit the recording if you want to.


Gale