When troubleshooting recording software issues, what is the first question to ask?

When troubleshooting recording software issues, determining if there are indicators of recording channel activity is fundamental. This step helps to assess whether the software is functioning as intended and if audio input is being recognized. Checking for visual indicators, such as waveforms or level meters, provides immediate insight into whether the software is receiving audio data.

If there are no indicators of activity, it suggests that there may be a more significant issue preventing the software from registering sound, which could stem from problems with hardware connections, recording settings, or even microphone functionality. Establishing this initial feedback loop allows for a more effective and focused troubleshooting approach, narrowing down where the issue might lie in the recording chain. Ensuring that channels are assigned or verifying the microphone's functionality may follow, but understanding whether the software recognizes audio input is the foundational step in resolving potential issues efficiently.