The Innovative Media department is located in The Workshop on the lower level of the James Branch Cabell Library.
804.827.3594
901 Park Avenue, Suite 078
library.vcu.edu/workshop
For an audio project, like a podcast or an interview, it’s crucial to record high-quality sound. Good quality microphones generally cannot be plugged directly into a computer, so you need an audio interface. You can plug a microphone into the audio interface and then the interface into the computer, so that you can record directly into a sound editing program. Zoom H4ns and H1s can act as both microphones and interfaces. More information below.
For information on creating an audio project from start to finish, check out the Audio Project Guide. The guide covers everything from editing techniques to audio script writing tips.
The Zoom H4n is an audio recorder with built-in stereo microphones, which do a good job of picking up all sounds near by. They are not the most ideal microphones for vocal recordings but will work if the Sennheiser microphones are unavailable or if you’re worried about a complicated set-up.
A Zoom H1 audio recorder is alternative option. The Zoom H1 does not have a way to attach external microphones, but otherwise is similar quality.
For help using the Zoom H4n or Zoom H1, refer to audio equipment set-up guide.
If you want to go the next step and record an interview with a better vocal microphone, recommended equipment is a Sennheiser e835 microphone, Zoom H4n recorder, XLR cable and microphone stand.
For help setting up the equipment, refer to setting up audio equipment guide.
The Workshop contains an audio studio equipped with sophisticated microphones and software. Attend an orientation to become an authorized user and reserve the audio studio in advance.
For help setting up and using the equipment in the audio studio, refer to the audio studio start-up guide.
Recommended equipment includes: