Jan 815 min read

#118: Optimising Your Zoom Audio Settings for the Best Online Singing Lessons

Optimising Your Zoom Audio Settings for the Best Online Singing Lessons - Rebecca Reid Vocal Studio

In the ever-evolving landscape of online education, the significance of high-quality audio cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to the delicate art of singing. As aspiring singers, educators, and music enthusiasts increasingly turn to platforms like Zoom for online singing lessons, ensuring optimal audio settings becomes an essential element in creating a truly immersive and effective learning experience.

The human voice is a nuanced instrument, and for online singing lessons to be successful, it's essential that every subtle pitch, tone, and resonance is accurately conveyed. A robust audio setup not only captures the richness of vocal expression but also provides the clarity necessary for both student and teacher to identify areas of improvement and celebrate progress.

The impact of optimal audio settings extends beyond the technical realm, influencing the emotional and psychological aspects of the learning journey. Imagine a scenario where a student, passionate about honing their vocal skills, is hindered by audio distortions, delays, or background noise during a lesson. The frustration stemming from compromised audio quality can erode the joy of learning and impede the student's overall progress.

Conversely, a well-configured audio setup enhances the online singing lesson experience, fostering a seamless connection between student and teacher. Crystal-clear audio allows for real-time feedback, making it easier to address nuances in pitch, timing, and singing technique. This heightened clarity enables teachers to provide more accurate guidance, creating an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to explore and refine their vocal abilities.

In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of optimising audio settings on Zoom for both desktop and mobile platforms, offering a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the best possible sound quality for your online singing lessons. By paying attention to these key details, you can improve your online singing lessons, ensuring that the transformative power of music remains undiminished in the digital realm.

Vocal Warm-Up Exercises & Routines - Rebecca Reid Vocal Studio

Setting Up Zoom on Desktop for Online Singing Lessons

As you embark on your online singing journey through Zoom, the first step towards an impeccable audio experience lies in configuring your desktop settings. Let's dive into the process of adjusting your microphone settings to ensure that your voice is captured with precision and clarity.

Adjusting Microphone Settings

Step 1: Open Zoom and Navigate to the Settings Menu

Begin by launching the Zoom application on your desktop. Once you're in the Zoom interface, look to the upper-right corner for the gear-shaped icon labelled "Settings." Click on this icon to access the Zoom settings menu.

Step 2: Click on "Audio" Settings

Within the settings menu, you'll find a list of options on the left-hand side. Locate and select "Audio." This will open a new window where you can fine-tune various audio settings to suit your specific needs.

Step 3: Select the Correct Microphone from the Dropdown Menu

In the "Audio Settings" window, you'll find a dropdown menu next to the "Microphone" option. Click on this menu to reveal a list of available microphones connected to your computer. Choose the microphone you intend to use for your online singing lessons.

Selecting the correct microphone is pivotal in ensuring that your voice is accurately captured without any loss of fidelity. If you are unsure which microphone to choose, you can test each one briefly to identify the optimal one for your singing sessions.

Step 4: Adjust Input Volume for Clear and Balanced Sound

With your chosen microphone selected, pay attention to the "Input Volume" slider. This control allows you to fine-tune the sensitivity of your microphone. Adjust the input volume to achieve a clear and balanced sound without any distortion. It's advisable to perform a quick vocal test or use Zoom's built-in testing feature to ensure that your audio levels are optimal.

Achieving the right balance is key to preventing audio clipping or distortion, especially when reaching higher vocal ranges. Strive for a setting that captures the full spectrum of your vocal nuances while maintaining a distortion-free sound.

Configuring Speaker Settings

Having fine-tuned your microphone settings for optimal vocal capture, the next step in setting up an online singing lesson is configuring your speaker settings. A harmonious interplay between crystal-clear audio input and output ensures that both you and your teacher can fully appreciate the subtleties of your vocal performance. Let's delve into the process of setting up your speakers for the best possible sound output.

Step 1: Check and Select the Appropriate Speaker or Headphone Device

In the same "Audio Settings" window that you accessed for adjusting your microphone settings, navigate to the "Speaker" section. Here, you'll encounter a dropdown menu listing the available speaker or headphone devices connected to your computer. Choose the device through which you intend to hear your teacher's feedback and other audio cues during your singing lessons.

Selecting the appropriate speaker device is important for accurate audio reproduction. If you're using headphones, ensure they are of high quality and provide a faithful representation of the audio spectrum. This step is particularly important for singers, as it allows you to perceive the nuances of your own voice and the teacher's guidance with precision.

Step 2: Test the Audio Output to Ensure Clarity and Proper Volume Levels

After selecting your preferred speaker or headphone device, it's time to perform an audio output test. In the "Audio Settings" window, you'll likely find a feature that allows you to test your speakers. Alternatively, you can initiate a Zoom meeting with a friend or use Zoom's built-in audio test feature to ensure that the output is clear and the volume is at an appropriate level.

During the test, pay attention to the clarity of the audio output and ensure that the volume levels are neither too soft nor too loud. Striking the right balance ensures that you can hear your teacher's guidance and musical accompaniment clearly without causing discomfort.

Remember, the goal is to create an immersive and enjoyable learning environment. If you encounter any issues during the test, revisit the speaker settings and make necessary adjustments to achieve the optimal balance of clarity and volume.

Enabling Original Sound

As we delve deeper into refining the audio settings for your online singing lessons, a feature that holds particular significance for musicians and singers is "Original Sound." This advanced setting in Zoom is designed to preserve the authenticity and richness of your audio input, making it a crucial element for a truly immersive online music experience.

"Original Sound" is a feature specifically crafted by Zoom to optimise audio transmission for music, singing, and other scenarios where preserving the fidelity of the sound is paramount. By default, Zoom employs algorithms for noise reduction and echo cancellation, which can inadvertently affect the quality of musical instruments and vocals.

For singing lessons, where nuances in pitch, tone, and expression are of utmost importance, the "Original Sound" feature becomes a game-changer. Enabling this setting ensures that your raw audio input is transmitted without any interference or alteration, allowing your teacher to hear your voice in its authentic form.

Now, let's guide you through the process of activating "Original Sound" to unlock the full potential of your vocal performance during online singing lessons.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Activate Original Sound:

Step 1: Access Zoom Settings

Open the Zoom application on your desktop.

Navigate to the top-right corner and click on the gear-shaped icon to access the Settings menu.

Step 2: Go to Audio Settings

Within the Settings menu, look for the "Audio" tab on the left-hand side.

Click on "Audio" to enter the audio settings configuration.

Step 3: Enable "Original Sound"

Once in the "Audio Settings" window, you'll find an option labelled "Advanced" at the bottom. Click on "Advanced" to reveal additional settings.

Step 4: Enable "Show in-meeting option to 'Enable Original Sound' from microphone"

Look for the option that says "Show in-meeting option to 'Enable Original Sound' from microphone" and toggle the switch to enable this feature.

Step 5: Activate Original Sound During Meetings

During your Zoom meeting or singing lesson, you'll now have the option to enable "Original Sound" directly. Click on the arrow next to the microphone icon in the meeting controls.

From the dropdown menu, select "Audio Settings."

In the Audio Settings menu, you'll find the option to "Enable Original Sound." Click on it to activate the feature.

By following these steps, you can improve your online singing lessons with the enhanced audio quality that "Original Sound" provides. This ensures that every vocal nuance, from the gentlest whisper to the most powerful crescendo, is faithfully transmitted to your teacher, creating an online learning environment that mirrors the authenticity of an in-person experience.

Fine-Tuning Advanced Audio Settings

Disabling Background Noise Suppression

As we aim for audio excellence in your online singing lessons, it's essential to address a feature that, while helpful in certain contexts, can potentially hinder the quality of musical expression: Background Noise Suppression. This built-in Zoom feature is designed to filter out ambient sounds, but its impact on music quality, particularly in the context of singing lessons, can be counterproductive.

The Impact of Noise Suppression on Music Quality

Background Noise Suppression is a double-edged sword. While effective in reducing unwanted noise from non-vocal sources (like keyboard typing or room ambiance), it operates on a threshold system that may inadvertently filter out subtle vocal nuances, dynamic shifts, and musical details. For singers, this can mean losing the delicate intricacies that make each vocal performance unique.

In the realm of music, where the goal is to capture the full spectrum of sounds, including the richness of a singer’s tone, the default settings for noise suppression might not be conducive to an optimal learning experience. Therefore, it's advisable to take control of this setting to ensure your singing lessons are not compromised.

How to Disable Background Noise Suppression for Singing Lessons

Step 1: Access Zoom Settings

Open the Zoom application on your desktop.

Navigate to the top-right corner and click on the gear-shaped icon to access the Settings menu.

Step 2: Go to Audio Settings

Within the Settings menu, locate and click on the "Audio" tab on the left-hand side.

Step 3: Adjust Advanced Audio Settings

Scroll down to the bottom of the "Audio Settings" window, and you'll find the "Advanced" section. Click on "Advanced" to unveil additional audio configuration options.

Step 4: Disable Background Noise Suppression

Look for the option that says "Suppress Persistent Background Noise" or a similar phrasing.

To disable background noise suppression, toggle the switch or uncheck the box associated with this feature.

Step 5: Verify the Changes

Once you've disabled background noise suppression, it's advisable to conduct a brief audio test or, better yet, initiate a test meeting with a friend to confirm that the changes have taken effect.

Fine-Tuning Advanced Audio Settings

Adjusting Audio Processing Settings

To improve the audio quality of your online singing lessons, it's imperative to navigate the intricate world of advanced audio settings within Zoom. In this section, we'll explore two key elements: Echo Cancellation and Automatic Gain Control. Understanding and optimising these settings will contribute significantly to the clarity and precision of your vocal transmission.

Exploring Advanced Audio Settings

Echo Cancellation:

Echo cancellation is a feature designed to eliminate or reduce echo and feedback during your online meetings. While useful in general conversations, it may inadvertently impact the quality of musical sounds, especially in a dynamic setting like a singing lesson.

Automatic Gain Control (AGC):

AGC automatically adjusts the microphone input volume to maintain a consistent level. While this can be helpful in preventing sudden volume spikes, it may also affect the overall dynamics of your vocal performance, particularly if your singing involves a wide range of volumes.

Recommendations for Optimal Configurations

Echo Cancellation:

If you experience excessive echo, try enabling echo cancellation and gradually adjust the settings until you find a balance.

If the echo cancellation interferes with your vocal nuances, consider disabling it. This can be especially relevant if you are using a high-quality microphone and are in a controlled acoustic environment.

Automatic Gain Control (AGC):

AGC is often a matter of personal preference and can be influenced by your specific setup.

If your singing involves a broad dynamic range, disabling AGC might provide more control over the natural fluctuations in your voice.

On the other hand, if your vocal performance is relatively consistent in volume, experimenting with AGC may help maintain a stable audio output.

Testing and Customising

Perform Audio Tests: After adjusting these settings, conduct thorough audio tests to ensure the changes align with your preferences. Invite a friend or use Zoom's testing features to assess the impact of the adjustments in a real-time setting.
Consider Your Setup: The optimal configuration can depend on your specific audio setup. If you're using external microphones, audio interfaces, or professional-grade equipment, adjustments may be needed to accommodate these elements.

Zoom Mobile App Settings for Online Singing Lessons

Accessing Audio Settings on Mobile

As the convenience of mobile devices continues to play a significant role in our virtual interactions, optimising your Zoom mobile app settings becomes paramount for a seamless and enriching online singing lesson experience. In this section, we'll guide you through the process of accessing audio settings on the Zoom mobile app, ensuring that your vocal nuances are captured with clarity and precision.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Audio Settings on the Zoom Mobile App

Step 1: Launch the Zoom App

Open the Zoom app on your mobile device. If you haven't already downloaded the app, you can find it on the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android).

Step 2: Join or Start a Meeting

Join an existing meeting or start a new one. If you're not yet in a meeting, you can create a test meeting or enter a waiting room to access settings without disrupting an ongoing session.

Step 3: Access Meeting Controls

Once you're in a meeting, you'll find meeting controls on your screen. These typically include icons for video, microphone, and participants. Tap the screen to reveal these controls if they are not already visible.

Step 4: Navigate to Audio Settings

Look for the "More" or "Settings" option. This is often represented by three dots (ellipsis) or a gear icon, depending on your device. Tap on this option to access additional settings.

Step 5: Enter Audio Settings

Within the "More" or "Settings" menu, you should find an option for "Audio" or "Meeting Audio." Tap on this option to enter the audio settings configuration.

Step 6: Adjust Microphone and Speaker Settings

Once in the audio settings, you'll likely see options to select your microphone and speaker devices. Choose the appropriate devices to ensure accurate audio input and output.

Step 7: Enable Original Sound (if available)

If your Zoom mobile app has the "Original Sound" feature, you may find it in the audio settings. Enable it to transmit your raw audio without unnecessary processing.

Step 8: Test Your Audio

Before diving into your singing lesson, conduct a quick audio test. Ensure that your microphone and speaker settings are configured correctly, and the audio output is clear.

Microphone and Speaker Configuration

As we continue our journey into the intricacies of optimising Zoom for your mobile singing lessons, fine-tuning your microphone and speaker settings is the next step. This section will guide you through the process of selecting the correct devices, ensuring your voice is captured with precision, and your teacher's guidance is heard in pristine clarity.

Selecting the Correct Microphone and Speaker Settings

Step 1: Access Audio Settings

As outlined in the previous section (3.1), navigate to the audio settings within your Zoom mobile app.

Step 2: Choose the Right Microphone

Look for the option to select your microphone device. Depending on your mobile device, this might be labelled as "Microphone" or "Audio Source." Tap on this option to reveal a list of available microphones.

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Microphone

If you're using an external microphone, such as a headset or USB microphone, choose the specific device from the list. For optimal results, select a high-quality microphone that accurately captures the nuances of your voice.

Step 4: Configure Speaker Settings

Similarly, find the option to select your speaker or headphone device. This might be labelled as "Speaker" or "Audio Output." Tap on this option to access the list of available devices.

Step 5: Choose the Correct Speaker or Headphone Device

If you're using headphones, select them from the list. If you prefer the audio to play through your device's built-in speakers, ensure the appropriate option is selected.

Step 6: Enable Original Sound (if available):

If your Zoom mobile app supports the "Original Sound" feature, enable it in the audio settings. This ensures that your raw, unprocessed audio is transmitted, preserving the integrity of your vocal performance.

Importance of Testing Audio Before the Lesson

Before diving into your singing lesson, it's paramount to conduct a thorough audio test. Here's why this step is so important:

Ensuring Clarity: Testing your audio allows you to confirm that the selected microphone and speaker devices are functioning correctly, providing clear and crisp sound.
Preventing Distractions: Conducting an audio test helps identify and rectify potential issues such as background noise, echo, or unintended feedback, preventing distractions during the lesson.
Optimising Settings: Testing gives you the opportunity to fine-tune settings based on your specific setup, ensuring that your voice is transmitted authentically and without interference.

How to Test Your Audio

Step1: Initiate a Test Meeting

Create a test meeting or enter a Zoom meeting with a friend specifically for audio testing purposes.

Step 2: Speak and Sing

During the test, speak and sing at varying volumes to gauge how well your microphone captures different aspects of your voice.

Step 3: Listen to Playback

Encourage your friend to provide feedback on the clarity of your voice and the absence of background noise.

Step 4: Make Adjustments as Needed

Based on the test results, return to your audio settings to make any necessary adjustments to microphone sensitivity, background noise suppression, or other relevant parameters.

Enabling Original Sound on Mobile

In the pursuit of audio excellence for your mobile singing lessons, the "Original Sound" feature stands out as a valuable tool. This feature, designed to preserve the raw and authentic quality of your voice, can significantly enhance the clarity and fidelity of your vocal transmission during online lessons. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to activate "Original Sound" on your Zoom mobile app:

Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Original Sound

Step 1: Launch the Zoom App

Open the Zoom app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Join or Start a Meeting

Enter an existing meeting or initiate a new one. If you're not in a meeting, you can create a test meeting or join a waiting room to access settings without affecting an ongoing session.

Step 3: Access More or Settings

Look for the "More" or "Settings" option on your screen. This is typically represented by three dots (ellipsis) or a gear icon. Tap on this option to access additional settings.

Step 5: Enter Audio Settings

Within the "More" or "Settings" menu, search for an option related to "Audio" or "Meeting Audio." Tap on this option to enter the audio settings configuration.

Step 6: Enable Original Sound

While in the audio settings, check for an option related to "Original Sound." Depending on your device and Zoom app version, this might be labelled as "Enable Original Sound" or a similar phrase. Toggle the switch or enable the feature.

Step 7: Verify Original Sound is Activated

Once you've enabled Original Sound, look for a visual indicator within the meeting interface that confirms its activation. Some versions of the app display a label such as "Original Sound On."

Step 8: Test Original Sound

Conduct a brief audio test within the meeting to ensure that Original Sound is functioning as expected. Sing or speak at varying volumes to gauge how well the feature preserves the authenticity of your voice.

Why Enable Original Sound on Mobile

Preserves Vocal Nuances: Activating Original Sound ensures that your vocal nuances, including subtle tones, pitches, and dynamic shifts, are transmitted without unnecessary processing.
Enhances Audio Fidelity: By bypassing certain audio enhancements and adjustments, Original Sound allows for a more faithful reproduction of your voice, contributing to a higher level of audio fidelity.
Ideal for Music and Singing: Especially beneficial for music-related activities like singing lessons, where maintaining the authenticity of your voice is paramount.

In our journey through the intricacies of optimising Zoom for online singing lessons, we've explored key considerations and fine-tuning steps to elevate your audio experience. Let's recap the essential points discussed and leave you with a reminder of the importance of consistent, high-quality audio settings.

Microphone and Speaker Configuration: Select the correct microphone and speaker settings to ensure accurate audio input and clear output during your singing lessons.
Enabling Original Sound: Activate the "Original Sound" feature to preserve the raw authenticity of your voice, particularly beneficial for music-related activities like singing lessons.
Advanced Audio Settings: Explore and adjust advanced audio settings such as echo cancellation and automatic gain control based on your specific setup and preferences.
Testing Before the Lesson: Conduct thorough audio tests before each online singing lesson to identify and address any issues related to microphone, speaker, or background noise settings.

Consistent, high-quality audio settings are foundational to a better online learning experience. By prioritising and fine-tuning your audio configurations, you create an environment that fosters effective communication between you and your teacher. This clarity allows for precise feedback, a more nuanced exploration of your vocal abilities, and an overall more enjoyable and enriching learning journey.

As you continue on your path with online singing lessons, remember that each adjustment contributes to the harmonious symphony of your learning experience. Your voice is unique, and ensuring that it is accurately and authentically transmitted through Zoom enhances the transformative power of music in the digital realm.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips to enhance your online singing lessons, and feel free to share your experiences or ask questions as you refine your audio settings for an optimal online learning adventure. May your melodies resonate with clarity and joy in the digital world of music!

Found this blog post helpful? Give it a like, share it with your friends, and leave a comment below to let me know how it benefited you!

* Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional or medical advice. Singers and professional voice users should always consult with qualified professionals, such as singing teachers or medical practitioners before making any decisions or taking any actions related to their vocal health and wellbeing.