Hardware Setup

The right mic and headphones give VoiceKey the clearest signal for accurate pitch detection and clean recordings.

USB condenser (entry)

Beginners, home practice

Plug-and-play on laptop/phone. Good clarity for warmups and practice. e.g. Blue Yeti, Rode NT-USB.

XLR large-diaphragm condenser

Serious singers, recording

Needs an audio interface. Captures vocal nuance and range accurately for analysis.

Built-in phone / laptop mic

Casual testing

Works for quick range checks. Reduce background noise for best pitch detection.

Quick setup steps

  1. 1Connect your mic or headphones before opening the recording screen.
  2. 2Place the mic about a fist's distance from your mouth, slightly off-axis to reduce pops.
  3. 3Record in a quiet, soft-surfaced room to limit echoes and background noise.
  4. 4Do a short test take and adjust input level so loud notes don't clip.
  5. 5Wear headphones while recording so the backing track stays out of your mic.

Troubleshooting

  • Pitch detection feels off?

    Move closer, reduce room noise, and avoid covering the mic.

  • Backing track bleeds into your recording?

    Switch to closed-back or in-ear headphones at a moderate volume.

  • Audio lags behind the track?

    Use wired headphones; Bluetooth adds noticeable latency.