Using Capture Streaming Audio to Record Music
Also Capturing Audio from Podcasts, Webinars, and Training Programs
Apr 2, 2009
Capture streaming audio provides the ability to record digital audio files from the Internet. This capability allows recording directly off an audio file’s hosting server into a file onto a computer. Recording digital audio files in this manner provides a near perfect reproduction of the downloaded audio files.
This technique provides high quality audio recordings and music for those with a discerning ear. Regardless of having a discerning ear or not, the quality of the sound is much better than just recording audio files in any other manner. Capture streaming audio requires a computer program, which is typically free for basic capturing audio services.
Capture Streaming Audio Process
The process of capture streaming audio requires downloaded compressed audio files be uncompressed and then recompressed in a file for saving. One example is Windows Media MP3 uncompressing an audio file for Windows Audio Video program to record and then recompressing the file back into a MP3 file for listening.
Sometimes a computer’s electronic noise is also recorded. This is due to the computer’s sound card being controlled by the capturing program during the process. If this happens, electronic noise (i.e., static noise and computer hum) is recorded in the audio file reducing sound quality. Depending on the computer the noise can make the audio recording unusable, higher end computers tend to have less electronic noise.
Even with this disadvantage, there are more advantages than not when using this technique for capturing streaming audio files from the Internet. Advantages include the ability to record online audio files, editing sections of music and audio files, and providing the capability to listen to your favorite music or podcasts anytime normal access is not available.
Sources of Streaming Audio Files
Caution is advised regarding the recording of copyrighted material, it is not recommended because of the illegal nature of this activity.Capture streaming audio can be used to record copyright free music or other audio files from online sources, such as:
- Radio Stations – provides streaming live radio music, talk shows, and other formats over the Internet.
- Satellite Radio – provides quality audio which many consider superior to standard radio stations, because of its digital and stereo quality.
- iTunes Radio – provides online music service.
- MP3 Internet Websites – provides the ability to download audio files of music and other audio files.
- MySpace – provides access to download music, podcasts, and other audio sources for recording.
- Podcasts – provides recordings of speeches, webinars, training programs, music, and other voice communications.
Software Programs for Capturing Streaming Audio Files
There are several types of audio capturing software on the market and a quick search of the Internet will provides numerous free and non-free software programs available. When searching for a software program, be sure it is compatible with your computer.
- Freecorder – records streaming audio for the basic capabilities to record a favorite online Internet radio station.
- Easy Radio – not only records music, the program provides the ability to listen to music without recording.
- Replay Radio – captures audio files and radio programs off the Internet. This program also provides podcast support.
- Audio HiJack – the only Mac capable software and ability to capture DVD audio files, along with Internet audio files.
Audio File Search Engine
A dedicated online search engine is available for finding audio files dedicated to web effects and musical instrument samples The search engine FindSounds facilitates the process for finding and capturing these audio files.
Making Connections with Capture Streaming Audio
The main advantage of using capture streaming audio for recording copyright free music and other audio files is the quality of recordings. Technological advances in this area continue to evolve and improve, along with program capabilities and quality of recorded audio files. Even with all these capabilities, capture streaming audio programs cannot record audio files from protected music and audio service websites and it is recommended joining these services to avoid copyright infringement.
 |
