This article is all about getting you started with your very first audio recording using the Behringer Flow 4V field recorder. We'll walk through the basic steps to get you up and running quickly, focusing on the essentials to capture your sound.
Getting Started: Plugging In and Powering Up
First things first, you need to connect your microphone. We're using a Shure SM 58 dynamic microphone for this example. Just plug it into the input on the left side of the recorder.
Now, about powering the Flow 4V: there's no traditional power button. It runs on USB power. You can use the included AC adapter or, as we're doing here, a USB battery bank. Plug it into the center USB slot, and the recorder will power on.
Arming Your Channel and Setting Resolution
Before you can record, you need to tell the recorder which inputs you want to capture. This is called 'arming' the channel. You'll find this option in the menu. Since the Flow 4V is a 32-bit float recorder, the way you think about levels is a bit different. When you record in 32-bit float, the initial recorded levels might look extremely low, almost like there's nothing there. Don't panic! You'll boost these levels up significantly in post-production, and you won't have to worry about adding noise.
You also have the option to record a mix of all your inputs. For many simple uses, recording just the mix might be all you need. For this guide, we'll enable input one and also record the mix.
Next, let's set the recording resolution. You can choose between 24-bit fixed or 32-bit float. Most people get this recorder for its 32-bit float capability, so we'll stick with that. However, if you're working on a project where the sound needs to be handed off to someone who specifically requests 24-bit, you have that option.
Setting Up Your Headphones and Levels
Plug in your headphones to monitor your audio. You can adjust the headphone volume using the control knob. It's a good idea to start with the volume lower and then bring it up to a comfortable listening level.
Now, let's set your recording levels. Talk into the microphone and adjust the fader for your channel. The goal is to get a healthy level without peaking. For dialogue, aim for a level that leaves some headroom, meaning there's room for louder sounds like a laugh without distorting. Since we're recording in 32-bit float, you have a lot of flexibility here, but it's still good practice to get your levels right from the start.
Important Notes on Microphones and Phantom Power
- Dynamic Microphones: These often need more gain, so don't be afraid to turn up the fader.
- Condenser Microphones: If you're using a condenser mic, you'll need to turn on 48-volt phantom power. There's a button for this, usually requiring a press and hold.
Onboard Processing and Recording
While the Flow 4V has many processing options, for now, we'll just enable a high-pass filter set to 75 Hz. This helps cut out low-frequency rumble or noise that most voices don't produce.
With everything set up, you're ready to record. Go back to the main screen. You'll see your mix level indicator. To start recording, simply press the record button. You'll know you're recording when the time code starts flashing.
When you're finished, press the stop button.
Transferring Files and Post-Production
To get your recording to your computer, you'll need to remove the SD card from the back of the recorder and insert it into your computer.
A Key Point for 32-bit Float: When you import your audio into your editing software, you might notice that the isolated tracks appear to have no waveform or very low levels. This is normal for 32-bit float. You'll need to boost these levels significantly in post-production. The great thing about 32-bit float is that when you boost the levels, you won't bring up unwanted noise, unlike with 24-bit recordings. The Flow 4V has clean pre-amplifiers, so you don't need to worry about a noisy floor.
That's it for your first recording. Stay tuned for more tutorials on the Behringer Flow 4V.
More about recorders:
Staff Report
Staff Report
Staff Report
