Intermittent Static

[ricardomus]

I am using 1.3.12 Beta with Windows 7 for one month, on new computer. Most recording is perfect, but some music ( slightly bass-heavy ) will have slight static distortion on playback. As an experiment, I recorded a "problem" piece with my old Vista computer, using version 1.2.6, with no problems. I am wondering what is wrong with 1.3.12, or if I can install 1.2.6 with Windows 7.. ( will it work ? ) , or is there a "fix" for the new version, such as a setting. I assume it is all still in default settings. Any suggestions ? And please keep it in "plain English" for a computer "newbie" !

[steve]

The recommended version of Audacity for Windows 7 is Audacity 1.3.12. Earlier versions are likely to have a lot of problems.

I suspect that the problem is that you are recording a bit too loud. On an ideal recording, the highest peaks on the waveform should be about half of the track height and should never touch the top/bottom of the track while you are recording. If the recording is too quiet after it is recorded you can safely use the "Amplify" effect to bring up the level. If you record too high, then there is no really good fix other than to record it again at a lower level.

[ricardomus]

The recommended version of Audacity for Windows 7 is Audacity 1.3.12. Earlier versions are likely to have a lot of problems.

I suspect that the problem is that you are recording a bit too loud. On an ideal recording, the highest peaks on the waveform should be about half of the track height and should never touch the top/bottom of the track while you are recording. If the recording is too quiet after it is recorded you can safely use the "Amplify" effect to bring up the level. If you record too high, then there is no really good fix other than to record it again at a lower level.

[ricardomus]

Thanks for a timely reply ! Your advise sounds good, but how do I control the level of the input ? I know how to amplify the end result, and Audacity seems to know if amplification is or isn't required. If you could tell me how to reduce the input level when doing the recording, that would be something I don't know ! Otherwise, I LOVE Audacity ! Thanks in advance.. Richard.

[steve]

Unfortunately Windows 7 does not have a "recording mixer" like XP used to have, but if you go into the "Windows Control Panel > Sounds" you should be able to set the recording level there. Some sound cards provide their own mixer with an icon near the time/date that make setting recording levels more convenient.

[bgravato]

Moved to the windows forum.