Is your mic picking up extra noise? but the background noise of a busy coffee shop is getting in the way. Don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to use your computer to reduce this unwanted sound!
Introduce the concept that there are methods to reduce background noise on a computer. In this blog post, I will discuss some methods that you can use to reduce background noise on your computer.
What is Background Noise Reduction?
Background noise reduction (BNR) works by taking a sample of the background sound; your computer then creates a “mirror” of that sound and subtracts it from the original recording.
This has the effect of removing as much as possible any unwanted sound from the recording, making it clearer and easier to listen to.
There are a few different ways to reduce background noise on your computer.
What is Audio Noise?
Some can leak out of the headphone jack or speakers in the electrical signals that pass from one part to another inside a computer. These signals are audio noise and make annoying background noises in recordings.
You can reduce this noise by introducing a solid electrical signal to cancel it out. This is known as active noise cancellation and uses technology from headphones that claim to be “noise canceling.” Your computer can use its built-in microphone to do this.
Reduce background noise with your internal mic!
Introduce the concept of using a built-in microphone to reduce background noise.
How does Internal Noise Reduction Work?
If you have a laptop or monitor with an external speaker, try recording the noise coming out of it and play it back through the monitor. You should hear little difference between this and your original recording! This is because they use active noise cancellation via their internal microphones.
How to use it:
If you have a built-in microphone, your computer can use it to reduce background noise in your recordings. The process is straightforward:
- Open the audio recording software on your computer (such as Audacity)
- Click the “record” button and start recording
- When you’re finished, click the “stop” button
- Click the “process” button
- Select “Noise Reduction” from the list of options
- Click the “OK” button
Your recording will now be processed and should have less background noise.
Steps For Background Noise Reduction Microphone
Background Noise Reduction Microphone
If you are looking for the best possible quality when reducing background noise, then using a dedicated background noise reduction microphone is the way to go.
These microphones have been designed specifically for this purpose, and they usually come with software that makes noise reduction much easier.
Some background noise reduction microphones also include features that allow you to adjust noise reduction, which gives you more control over the final sound quality.
Noise Reduction Software
If you don’t have a background noise reduction microphone, or if you want to try out the software before you invest in a new microphone, there are a few different pieces of software that you can use.
Windows includes an essential noise reduction tool in its Sound recorder, and more advanced tools are available from third-party developers.
External Noise Cancelling Device
If you are struggling to reduce the background noise on your computer, you might want to consider using an external noise-canceling device.
These devices work by canceling any unwanted sound that comes into the microphone, making it easier to hear what you are recording.
One important thing to remember is that noise-canceling devices only work with microphones, so they won’t help you reduce any sound coming from your computer’s internal speakers.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a noise-canceling microphone to reduce background noise on my computer?
Yes, you can use a noise-canceling microphone to reduce background noise on your computer.
However, this only applies to the sound that comes into the microphone. Therefore, you will still need to reduce computer noise using other methods to record sound from your speakers.
Is there any software I can use to reduce background noise?
Yes, you can use audio recording software such as Audacity or one of many third-party options for this purpose. These programs allow you to reduce the level of background noise in your recordings.
Can I use an external noise-canceling device with my computer?
No, you cannot use an external noise-canceling device with your computer. Only microphones will work with these devices.
Conclusion
The best way to reduce background noise is by using a dedicated background noise reduction microphone, but if you don’t have one, you can try using software or an external noise-canceling device.
Remember that noise-canceling devices only work with microphones, so they won’t help you reduce any sound coming from your computer’s internal speakers.
Until then check out some of my other articles too:
What Is Vocal Booth? How To Build A Vocal Booth?
What Does Phantom Power Do? Why Do We Need It?
What Is A Shotgun Microphone? When To Use? Pros And Cons
What Is Microphone Array? Explained In Detail
What is XLR Microphone? XLR vs USB