Hey Janie, This is Doug. The only other thing I can tell you is that you connect your headphones thru external speakers on your computer. The reason for this is you can add extra volume to your recordings from your speaker, When you clip a voice on wavepad, try to clean it up without "bleaching" the voice. What I do with a difficult clip is to count the number of syllables you hear. Then write down what you hear phonetically. Read it over again and again with another person listening. I have found that the person reading can't really hear what they are saying if it doesn't really make sense. The other person may just make sense out of it. Then go back and listen to the original clip. Does it fit? Just one more way to look at things. By the way, we use the Sony Sterio recorders. To this I have added a sterio mike that I clip on my hat or somwhere else that is away from my face and stomach. Breathing normally can be picked up as well as a hungry stomach.
I have found that using wavepad I can get rid of some of the backround noise, amplify, then speed up or slow down the voice. Use both speed change and speed and pitch change. You will be surprised how that can bring out the words. I hope some of this helps. I will be glad to help in any way I can. Extracting EVP is what I love to do and the practice makes me better. It can be a very slow tedious process but it is my thing. Good luck and e-mail us if you need anything.

Hi Janie, We use sony digitals,proven to be the best for us. Love the SONY IC-ux70 with the down load connector,iIt gives quick access to your evidence. We are updating www.portcityparanormal.com with our newer equipment. It seems Doug has been blessed with sharp ears, me,, nothing. I used to be upset when he'd play back what we caught and I couldn't hear anything, or while on vigil. I found that over time I was getting better at listening and when I practiced, I got even better. So practice is the key for most of us, learning how to seperate the background noise from what shouldn't be there! Doug equates it to listening to music;how to tell the bass from the lead guitar.I cheat too! Using wave pad,I look for the pops and bangs that sometime proceed EVP. For me, the bottom line was practicing what small talent I had to start with. Through the years I feel that my awareness has expanded in more ways than just listening skills.
We are available to listen to any evp if you would like another opinion, or just to share so we all learn a little something more! Jane

GREETINGS!