audio-recording-setup-checklist

name	audio-recording-setup-checklist
description	Use when running through pre-shoot audio setup. Checklist prevents lost audio.

Audio Recording Setup Checklist

Pre-shoot audio checklist: mic, gain, monitor, backup, room treatment, test recording.

Pre-shoot checklist

1. Microphone selected and tested
2. Mic placement optimal
3. Gain set (-12 dBFS peaks)
4. Headphone monitoring active
5. Battery levels checked (wireless mics)
6. SD card has space + is formatted
7. Backup audio recorder available
8. Room treatment (blankets, foam) in place
9. HVAC off if possible
10. Test recording reviewed before main take

Backup audio rule

Always have 2 recording paths:

1. Primary: in-camera audio
2. Backup: dedicated audio recorder (Zoom H5, Tascam DR-40)

If primary fails (rare but happens), backup saves the shoot.

Sync in post (clap or use timecode).

Common shoot-day errors

1. Forgetting to enable mic input
2. Wireless mic going out of range
3. Wind blowing across mic (use dead-cat windscreen)
4. Clothing rustle on lav mic
5. Phone in pocket causing buzz
6. AC unit kicking on mid-shoot
7. Talent moving away from mic

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Audio shoot checklist for CardPrepAI video production.