tldr/pages/linux/arecord.md

# arecord

> Sound recorder for ALSA soundcard driver.
> More information: <https://manned.org/arecord>.

- Record a snippet in "CD" quality (finish with `<Ctrl c>` when done):

`arecord -vv --format=cd {{path/to/file.wav}}`

- Record a snippet in "CD" quality, with a fixed duration of 10 seconds:

`arecord -vv --format=cd --duration={{10}} {{path/to/file.wav}}`

- Record a snippet and save it as an MP3 (finish with `<Ctrl c>` when done):

`arecord -vv --format=cd --file-type raw | lame -r - {{path/to/file.mp3}}`

- List all sound cards and digital audio devices:

`arecord --list-devices`

- Allow interactive interface (e.g. use `<Space>` or `<Enter>` to play or pause):

`arecord --interactive`

- Test your microphone by recording a 5 second sample and playing it back:

`arecord -d 5 test-mic.wav && aplay test-mic.wav && rm test-mic.wav`