Capturing ambient sounds

[Tinker]

My phone and my camera both have the ability to record sound. However, after trying them for a while, the quality is not really so good.

If 1 wanted to sit in a field, for example, and record sounds, what would you recommend?

[Spik@]

Tinker,

If you are going to sit in a field, for example, I would definitely recommend bringing a chair and some snacks

As to the qualtiy of your recordings....ofcourse there are devices that enhance the quality of recordings greatly (with directional mics), but they can be pretty costly. Did you try to use software to enhance the recordings you have now? Maybe a program like Audacity?

Regards,

Spik@

Edited August 8, 2011 by Spik@

[wombat50]

Has some forum threads and articles about different types of mics and how to use them in the field.

As Spik@ said, some are pricey. Wind is the biggest detriment to good outside audio.

Being obvious, I'd choose a calm day.

The other alternative is to download sounds from the mentioned website or google for insect or bird calls. Some universities have fabulous databases for them.

[101459]

This may be too late to help, but as a Sound Designer with some experience I'd recommend a Digital hand-held recorder, like the:

· Zoom H4N

· Sony PCM-M10

· TASCAM DR-07mkII

· Sony PCM-D50

While these might seem expensive, most incorporate shockingly good microphones and matching circuitry that will often yield better performance then you'll achieve with separate microphone and recorder as well as avoid all the issues of ghost mic power supplies, cable noise, and the general unwieldiness of using separate components.

Edited February 1, 2012 by 101459