To which I would add:

Tom's suggestion of recording in stereo is absolutely on the mark.  It's so 
much easier to 'decode' audio in a noisy environment from a two-channel 
pickup.  If you've ever recorded a lecture that way while sitting in the 
audience, you know how effective this can be.

To another point: I've found several new cassette recorders and packed them 
away in their blister-packs along with a box of new cassettes.

(I also admit doing the same thing with Minidisks...but those are headed for 
eBay)  <g>

Regards,

Mark Durenberger


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Tom Fine" <[log in to unmask]>

> One mic per person usually works well, but I've heard very nicely audible 
> group-discussion things made with a well-placed stereo mic.
>
> Here's what may be a controversial notion. If you have made an oral 
> history recording that is of great value to you and your family, I would 
> suggest that it's prudent to record a backup of the final edited product 
> to ... cassette! Why? They are cockroaches -- they seem to last very well 
> over decades when stored properly. There will likely be playback gear 
> around for decades to come (if you have any doubts, go online and buy a 
> couple of $20 Walkmans, they are still sold).