As video editors, we usually prefer to control the dynamics of our video sound in post production. But sometimes it's beneficial to keep a handle on things during the shoot. That's where an audio limiter comes in handy. Digital audio can be only so loud. The recording system built into your camcorder has a hard ceiling of volume, and anything more than that results in some nasty distortion. Keeping a cautious eye on recording levels, you can avoid this distortion, but you've got plenty of other things to do too. If your camera offers it, you can apply a signal limiter to the recorded sound, automatically keeping everything in check. As with most of the other onboard options, this one also requires fishing through the menu system. Look in the audio section for the Limiter option, and simply turn it on. Now, regardless of the input level, your recordings will never go above the preset limit. It's still a good idea to watch the audio levels and keep them in a reasonable range, but, with the limiter engaged, none of the occasional sound spikes will ruin your recording.

Onboard audio options are more common and functional today. Digital signal processing is cheap today, and camera manufacturers have leveraged it to offer the video producer more alternatives and better sound. You still want to use an external microphone, windscreen and your other standard equipment but, with these options available at your fingertips, it's easier than ever to bring home a clean, professional recording. Break out the manual and explore the audio menu. You may find a surprise or two waiting inside.

Contributing Editor Hal Robertson is a digital media producer and technology consultant.

You may have noticed that we weren't too crazy about the digital wind filter. It works, but there's a quick and dirty way to get better audio. Make a run to the local craft or fabric store, and buy a swatch of craft fur - the furrier the better. Cut it to fit loosely around your existing microphone (bare mic or foam windscreen), and secure it with rubber bands or a ponytail elastic, closing up the open end as best you can. Seriously, that's all there is to it. It's not sophisticated or pretty, but it will effectively minimize the wind noise. To make a more permanent caged windscreen, see our DIY tutorial in the February Audio column Make your Own Blimp.