Audio quality matters. A beautiful audio recording is easy to listen to. A poor recording distracts from the content and diverts energy from listening. The equipment is getting easier to use. So it is great to see Wellington Libraries continuing to expand their offering of sound equipment for hire. The latest is a “Podcast/Zoom kit” which has a Zoom H8 digital sound recorder and 2 Rode N1 microphones. Check it out if you are thinking of recording an oral history interview face to face or online. And if you are looking for information keep an eye on the National Library website for their Essentials of Oral History Research training or check out the Oral History Guide on NZHistory If you’ve done a course through the Library you can also hire equipment from the Library at very reasonable rates.