Audio input devices allow a user to send audio signals to a computer for processing, recording, or carrying out commands. Audio input devices such as microphones allow users to speak to the computer in order to record a voice message or navigate software. Other types of audio input devices are made to interface a computer with a CD audio source, digital audio, or MIDI instrument such as a synthesizer.

Microphones, the most common audio input devices, are used with line-in or microphone-in settings within a recording software package. Most operating systems, including Windows, come with basic recording capability built in. You can archive spoken messages, verbal notes, generate audio journals or make podcasts. You can also customize sound events on your operating system by making your own wave files. Instead of the usual “chime” at the boot into Windows, for example, you might hear yourself saying, “Pony up!”

Aside from recording, audio input devices are also used with speech recognition software. In this case a microphone is used to speak to the software. Once the software is trained to recognize your voice, it can carry out commands for you rather than having to use a keyboard. When you dictate a letter, for example, speech recognition software can translate your spoken words into a written document. This is handy for anyone who isn’t a typist, or who has a related disability.

Audio input devices can also be used to transfer pre-recorded music to a computer. Using CD-in or line-in (depending), you can transfer tracks from a cassette tape, CD, stereo tuner, or turntable to your computer. Once transferred, the track can be used on a portable music player, re-burned to a new CD of favorites, or added to a digital library.

Audio input devices are also used to record live music to a computer. Many software packages offer extensive sound editing for musical enthusiasts. MIDI-in settings allow musical instruments such as synthesizers and drum machines to be recorded to tracks. Using a microphone, one can add acoustic instruments and voice. Tracks can be edited and mixed to build songs.

Audio input devices add a great deal of flexibility and functionality to the computer. High-end sound cards might offer more interface ports for audio input devices than budget cards. If you have a particular project in mind, explore the possibilities with your current hardware and an appropriate software package before assuming an upgrade will be necessary. For many projects basic hardware is adequate.