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Recording Sound Files with a Windows Computer

Most computers built these days include the necessary sound cards and even some free utility software for recording and playing back sounds.  In fact, most computers come with CD ROM drives that can play musical CDs, too.  The most recent computer purchases in Blue Valley have included an accessory to record sounds.  It is in the "Accessories" folder, in the folder entitled "Entertainment".

Recording with the built-in microphone:

To record a sound, click the red "record" button.  To stop recording, click the button with the rectangular "stop" icon.  It is possible to play back the sound using the other buttons on this panel.  Sounds may also be "cropped" with the edit features.  They may be played backwards or enhanced with "echo" using effects.

After the sound is recorded, save the file (under the "File" menu).  It will be saved in a "wav" format.

It is also possible to use either an external mike or another external source for recording.  Use the 1/8th inch microphone plug on most computers to plug in an external source.  

One other way to get sounds into your computer is to create them as midi files - these can be played back with Windows Media Player.  For a sample, listen to a Bach 2-part invention.

Please be aware of the dangers of breaking copyright law when recording sounds.  Remember that the original composition may be in public domain but specific recordings or performances are still the property of the performers.  For a sure-fire way to add sounds legally, plug a keyboard in to the computer, get a keyboard performer who is willing to let you have their performance, and record original or public domain songs.  Don't forget the limitations large file sizes put on your pages, too!

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