After the 2019/42 recording of Queen of Mean, I wanted to figure out a nonfussy recording setup that would produce a reasonably clear recording that was, crucially, not too quiet.

I started by taking the 2019/42 recording and running it through Amplify and then DeNoise filters (using Audacity). Amplify worked quite well to get the volume levels up, but it amplified noise as well, and the application of the DeNoise filter made the recording sound like I was hearing it through water.

So I did need a good recording to start with. I have a single condenser microphone that plugs into my laptop, and record the vocals and guitar simultaneously. I'm also still at the stage where I have to look at the fretboard a lot as I change chords, so the opening of my guitar and my face are pointing in two different directions. I have the mic at a reasonable distance from both my face and the guitar to catch enough of both sounds.

To be able to record at a higher volume to have a good-volume recording to work with, I had to take two weeks off recording and practice "breathing quietly while singing" (the breathing was at uncomfortable levels, especially if you listen back to the recording through headphones it really sounds like someone is breathing heavily into your ear).

Having the breathing under control, recording with a single microphone in my living room w/o any special sound insulation panels produces a reasonable good sound. It's meant as a snapshot of my guitar and songwriting progress which shouldn't distract from the music and lyrics, but doesn't have to be polished beyond that.