01
Install Audacity
Download the Windows installer from the official **Audacity** website and complete setup.
Install **Audacity**, select your microphone, and test recording and exporting voice audio.
Requirements
- Windows 11 25H2 x64
- Working microphone
- Audacity installer from https://www.audacityteam.org/download/windows/
- Windows microphone permission enabled
Instructions
02
Allow microphone access
Open **Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone** and confirm desktop applications can access the recording device.
03
Select the microphone
Launch Audacity and choose the intended microphone from its audio device controls.
04
Set recording parameters
Choose an appropriate sample rate and channel configuration. Use mono for a single voice microphone unless stereo recording is specifically required.
05
Record a test
Press **Record** and speak at a normal volume. Check the waveform and make sure the recording does not clip.
06
Export the audio
Stop recording, listen to the sample, and use **Export Audio** to create an audio file in your chosen supported format.
tipKeep the original Audacity project when you may need to edit the recording later.
Common issues
Audacity records silence.
Check microphone permission, the selected recording device, and input gain.
The recording sounds distorted.
Lower input gain and record again while monitoring peak levels.
Frequently asked
Can Audacity export MP3?
Yes, supported builds include MP3 export capability.
Should voice recording use mono?
Mono is appropriate for most single-microphone voice recordings.
How to undo this
Uninstall **Audacity**, delete unwanted test projects or exports, and restore previous microphone input settings if changed.
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