Videomaker's Audio Recording Software Buyer's Guide (page 2)

Ease of Use

A portable digital recorder may be all you need to accomplish your audio goals. Maybe a full-blown audio recording studio is more your style. It's important to remember that the software you choose should match your ability level. If your knowledge of audio recording goes as far as pushing the Record and Play button on your old cassette recorder, having a program that synthesizes multiple channels of audio while editing out aural blemishes might be for you.

Choosing an audio software program that incorporates all the functions you see as viable to your production is more important than what the program description says it can do. Be sure that you understand how the software works, why it works and what it does before you make the investment.

Upgrading

Much like upsizing your value meal at any fast-food restaurant, there is always going to be an upgradeable option when it comes to audio recording software. Regardless of your budget or project demands, as technology continues to evolve and improve, finding a program that meets your needs shouldn't be that hard.

If you are just starting out in the world of audio recording, you'll probably want to consider the most basic software program that is available. If your skills are more advanced, do your research and find the program that delivers the tools you need at a price you're comfortable with. And if your projects are big-ticket productions that will revolutionize the way consumers listen to audio, then, by all means, keep on changing the world.

After all, Edison and Martinville may not have seen the audio recording revolution coming, but they certainly made the best of the "software" they had available. The only question left to ask: what recording will you be remembered for?

Dave Sniadak is a video production consultant, servicing clients that include broadcast stations, corporations and non-profit organizations.

Manufacturer's list

Click here to download a PDF Manufacturer's list of Videomaker's Audio Editing Buyer's Guide.