Recording Skype calls

NOTE: This howto uses examples geared toward recording with gnome-sound-recorder. If you are using KDE, go to the bottom of this howto and click on the original link. There you will find additional info on using kmix and krecord. The basic howto is still the same.

What you’ll needed

• ALSA utilities(alsamixer) found in alsa-utils
• Audio recording software gnome-sound-recorder(Already installed in Hardy)
• A version of Skype that supports ALSA(I installed from the Skype website in July 08 and that version or newer should be fine.)

How to configure

• Make sure Skype is setup to use ALSA. Tools>Options>Sound Devices>Audio
• Set up ALSA mixer
  • Open a terminal(Applications>Accessories>Terminal) and run alsamixer
  • Use your R/L arrow keys to set the mic input level.
  • You can optionally set the mic boost on by using the R/L arrow keys and then the space key.
  • Now hit the TAB key to see the Capture options window.
  • Now use the R/L arrow keys to navigate to Mix. Use your space key to select it. A red L R CAPTUR should appear.
  • Now use the R/L arrow keys to navigate to th Capture option, use your space key to select it. Again, you should see a red L R CAPTUR. Choose the level here using the up/down arrows.
  • Press ESC to close alsamixer
• Now launch gnome-sound-recorder(Applications>Sound & Video>Sound Recorder)
• Set Record from input to Capture in gnome-sound-recorder

Testing

It is best to test record a call before using it to record something important. You can do this by hitting the record button in gnome-sound-recorder and then use Skype to make the test call to Skype testing service. After finishing the call, hang up and stop recorder. Now save the file too your desktop as an ogg file. You can now use any audio playback device you have to play the recording. If all works correctly you should hear your recording. Note: You can now use an app. like audacity to edit your file or change the format, or both.

I got this howto here: http://porpoisehead.net/hi/?q=node/23 There are some further instructions on adjusting the levels, etc. and using in KDE.