What is mic gain?

Mic gain, short for microphone gain, refers to the amount of amplification applied to the signal from a microphone before it is sent to a recording or broadcasting device. Increasing the mic gain boosts the input signal, making it louder and more prominent in the audio mix.

Adjusting the mic gain is important for achieving clear and balanced sound recordings. Too little gain may result in a weak or quiet signal, while too much gain can introduce noise, distortion, or feedback. It is crucial to find the right balance to capture the desired sound accurately.

Mic gain can typically be adjusted using a knob or slider on audio equipment such as mixers, preamps, or audio interfaces. It is recommended to set the mic gain level before recording to avoid clipping or distortion. Testing the levels by monitoring the audio input and making adjustments as needed is a good practice to achieve optimal sound quality.