Making custom samples
We'll be creating our own audio samples in Chapter 6, Finding and Creating New Noises. We'll need to acquire another piece of open source software to get the recording done.
To start out, I would suggest Audacity: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
An example of an audio sample is shown as follows:
Audacity is an excellent multi-track open source audio recording and editing platform for Windows, Linux, and OS X. It's easy to use and ridiculously powerful. Here are the best links for the manual, Wiki, and other goodies related to Audacity:
After downloading, Audacity can access the audio input and output of the computer from its Preferences page, which is under the Audacity Menu. Windows and OS X will use their own system based drivers and you can choose your device in the Preferences menu. If using Linux, ALSA will be available through your Preferences menu, and Audacity should have access to the current sound device.
Avoiding painful microphone feedback
When a microphone is hearing itself play through speakers, a feedback loop occurs that can severely hurt yourself and your neighbors. Ear-splitting feedback is never fun, so follow this simple rule first:
Tip
When sampling using Audacity, use headphones, turn the output of the audio interface down, or turn speakers off.
