Finding and Analyzing Audio Sources

Sources for Audio

The following online resources provide primary source sound recordings:

• Historical Voices: http://www.historicalvoices.org/index.php
• Museum of Broadcast Communications (audio & video): http://www.museum.tv/
• Talking History: http://www.talkinghistory.org/
• UC Berkeley Lectures & Events: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/MRC/audiofiles.html

Analyzing Audio

When evaluating sound recordings, the technology of the time must be taken into account. How was the primary source created? How might the technology alter the primary source so that it distorts the analysis? For example, on old wax cylinder recordings, bumping the table while recording would cause the needle to jump and affect the final sound.

• The History of the Edison Cylinder Phonograph: Offers a description of the development of early sound recordings.
• Timeline of Music and Media Technology: Detailed timeline of recording and broadcast technology starting in 1850.