What is Automatic Gain Control (AGC)?
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) is a feature in recorders or software that automatically adjusts the volume levels to keep the audio consistent, boosting quiet sounds and lowering loud ones.
Why Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Matters for Podcasters
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) is a circuit or algorithm found in many digital recorders and conferencing software (like Zoom). Its goal is to maintain a steady volume level without the user having to adjust knobs manually. If a speaker whispers, AGC boosts the signal; if they scream, AGC lowers it. While this sounds helpful, it is often discouraged in professional podcasting. AGC can raise the 'noise floor' (background hiss) during moments of silence because it is desperately trying to find a signal to boost. It can also cause a 'pumping' effect where the background noise swells and drops unnaturally between words. Most audio engineers recommend turning AGC off and setting levels manually to ensure a clean, professional recording.
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Explore Background Noise Reducer →Related Terms
AAC (Advanced Audio Coding)
AAC is a standard audio file format that offers better sound quality than MP3 at the same bitrate. It is the preferred audio format for Apple Podcasts and iTunes.
Audio Interface
An audio interface is a hardware device that connects professional XLR microphones to a computer, converting analog audio signals into digital data for recording.
Background Music (Music Bed)
Background music, or a 'music bed,' is instrumental audio played underneath the spoken dialogue to set the mood, pace, or tone of a podcast segment.
Background Noise / Noise Floor
Background noise (also called noise floor) is the unwanted ambient sound present in your recording, such as air conditioning hum, computer fan noise, or room echo. It can distract listeners and make your podcast sound unprofessional.