How to use the Soundbooth

This guide explains how to use the Soundbooth to make audio recordings, covering preparation, equipment, recording workflows, and finishing steps. Follow the sections that match your software and needs.

Before You Record

- Check your session schedule and availability.

- Bring any scripts, notes, or reference tracks on a USB drive or cloud access.

- Wear comfortable, quiet clothing and avoid noisy jewelry.

- Turn off or silence phones and other devices.

Microphone Technique

- Maintain consistent distance (usually 6–12 inches) and angle to avoid plosives and sibilance.

- Speak slightly off-axis if plosive sounds persist.

- Use room awareness: move away from reflective surfaces and avoid banging on the furniture.

Signal Check and Levels

- Do a mic check: speak at performance volume and adjust gain so peaks sit well below clipping (aim for -12 to -6 dBFS on digital meters).

- Monitor through headphones for latency, noise, and desired sound.

- Record a short test clip and listen back at production volume to confirm tone and levels.

Software-Specific Notes

- If you will be recording using Audacity, see the relevant instructions:

- If you will be recording using GarageBand, see the relevant instructions:

Finishing a Session

- Save and export session files using a clear folder structure and naming (projectname_date_take).

- Back up session files to provided drives or your cloud account before leaving.

- Power down gear in reverse order of power-up if needed and tidy the booth.

Troubleshooting Checklist

- No sound: check microphone cable, phantom power (for condenser mics), interface connections, and software input selection.

- Low level: increase preamp gain; check cable integrity.

- Distortion/clipping: reduce input gain; move mic farther from source.

- Latency: lower buffer size, enable direct monitoring.