You need to record a WhatsApp call. Or a Signal call. Or a Zoom meeting you joined from your phone. You open your settings, search for a recording option, and find nothing. You try your phone’s built-in call recording feature and it does not work. You search the App Store or Play Store for a recording app and everything looks sketchy, subscription-heavy, or flat-out broken.

You are not missing something. Your phone is deliberately blocking you from recording these calls. Here is why – and the one method that actually works.

Why You Can’t Record These Calls with Software

Both Apple and Google have locked down call recording at the operating system level. The restrictions are designed around the built-in Phone app, and third-party calling apps get no recording support at all.

iPhone (iOS)

Apple added built-in call recording to the iPhone. But it only works with the Phone app and FaceTime. Open WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or any other calling app and the record button simply does not exist. There is no API, no workaround, and no setting to change this. Apple’s recording feature is hard-wired to their own calling apps.

Third-party recording apps on iPhone have never been able to access call audio directly. The few that exist (like TapeACall) use a three-way calling workaround that only works with carrier phone calls – not with WhatsApp, Signal, or any VoIP app.

Screen recording does not help either. If you try using iOS screen recording during a WhatsApp or Signal call, it captures the video on screen but mutes the other party’s audio from the recording. Apple intentionally strips incoming call audio from screen recordings to prevent exactly this kind of workaround.

Android

Google has been tightening restrictions on call recording with each Android release. The built-in recording features on Pixel (Google Phone app) and Samsung (Samsung’s One UI) only work with the native dialer – standard carrier phone calls. They do not activate during WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, or any third-party calling app.

Third-party recording apps like Cube ACR face the same wall. On modern Android versions, these apps can typically only record your microphone audio, not the other party’s voice. This is an OS-level restriction that no app can bypass without root access.

Screen recording on Android has the same limitation as iPhone for most devices: the remote party’s call audio is either muted or severely degraded in the recording.

The Bottom Line

There is no software solution – not an app, not a built-in feature, not screen recording – that reliably records both sides of a WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, or Teams call on a modern iPhone or Android phone. The operating systems do not allow it.

Recording Methods Compared

How RECAP S2 Records Any Calling App

RECAP S2 is a hardware audio adapter that works at the analog level, completely outside the reach of iOS and Android software restrictions.

The Signal Path

Here is how audio flows when you use RECAP S2:

Your phone (any calling app)
    |
    v
Headset jack (or adapter)
    |
    v
RECAP S2 --- copies audio ---> Recording device (computer, voice recorder, tablet)
    |
    v
Your wired headset (you hear + speak normally)

The key insight: by the time audio reaches the headset jack, your phone has already decoded it. WhatsApp has decrypted it. Signal has decrypted it. Zoom has decoded it. The analog audio signal coming out of the headset connection is just sound – it contains both sides of the conversation, and it does not matter which app generated it.

RECAP S2 sits in the middle of that signal path, makes a copy, and sends it to your recording device. You continue hearing the call through your headset as normal. The other party has no indication that anything is different.

Every App That Works

Because RECAP captures audio from the headset connection, it works with any app that routes sound through wired headphones. That includes:

• WhatsApp (voice calls and video calls)
• Signal (voice calls and video calls)
• Telegram (voice calls and video calls)
• Zoom (mobile app meetings and calls)
• Microsoft Teams (calls and meetings)
• Google Meet (mobile app)
• FaceTime (audio and video)
• Discord (voice channels and calls)
• Facebook Messenger (voice and video calls)
• Viber
• LINE
• WeChat
• Skype (legacy – Skype was shut down in May 2025 and now redirects to Microsoft Teams; if you still have the app installed, RECAP works with it)
• Regular phone calls (carrier calls through the Phone app)

If you can hear the other person through your wired headset, RECAP can record it. The app is irrelevant.

Setup Guide

Setting up RECAP S2 takes a few minutes. The process is the same regardless of which calling app you use.

What You Need

1. RECAP S2 audio adapter ($99 – one-time purchase, no subscriptions)
2. A wired headset with a 3.5mm TRRS plug (most standard earbuds with a built-in microphone work). Bluetooth headsets will not work – the audio must travel through the wire.
3. An adapter if your phone lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack (most modern phones). See our compatible adapters guide for tested options.
4. A recording device – a computer, digital voice recorder, tablet, or second phone with any voice recording app.

iPhone Setup

1. Connect the appropriate Apple adapter to your iPhone — Lightning to 3.5mm for iPhones with a Lightning port, or USB-C to 3.5mm for iPhones with a USB-C port.
2. Plug RECAP S2 into the adapter.
3. Plug your wired headset into the RECAP S2 headset port.
4. Connect the RECAP S2 output cable to your recording device’s microphone input.
5. Open your calling app (WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, whatever you need) and make or receive a call. Hit record on your recording device.

For a complete walkthrough with screenshots and troubleshooting, see our full iPhone call recording guide.

Android Setup

1. Connect a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC to your Android phone. (If your phone still has a 3.5mm jack, skip this step.)
2. Plug RECAP S2 into the adapter (or directly into the headphone jack).
3. Plug your wired headset into the RECAP S2 headset port.
4. Connect the RECAP S2 output cable to your recording device’s microphone input.
5. Open your calling app and make or receive a call. Hit record on your recording device.

Important for Samsung and Pixel users: You need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC (not a cheap passive adapter). The Apple USB-C adapter works on all Android phones. See our compatible adapters guide for the full tested list.

For a complete walkthrough, see our full Android call recording guide.

Recording Software

On a computer, we recommend Audacity (free) or OBS Studio (free). Both can record from RECAP S2’s audio input and support voice-activated recording for hands-free operation. See our best software for recording phone calls on PC guide for detailed setup steps, and our guide to recording phone calls on your computer for the full hardware-to-software walkthrough.

On a second phone or tablet, any voice memo app works. On a dedicated voice recorder, just press record.

For fully automatic recording (every call captured without manual action), see our guide on how to automatically record every phone call.

App-Specific Notes

WhatsApp

RECAP S2 works with both WhatsApp voice calls and video calls. During video calls, you hear and speak through your wired headset while the video displays on screen normally – RECAP captures the audio portion.

WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption, which protects your call data while it travels over the internet. By the time the audio reaches your headset jack, your phone has already decrypted it. RECAP captures the decrypted analog audio – the same audio you hear with your ears. Encryption protects data in transit, not what plays through your headphones.

Signal

Signal is designed for maximum privacy, and its encryption is among the strongest available. The same principle applies: encryption protects the data between phones. Once Signal decrypts the audio on your device and sends it to your headset, it is an analog audio signal like any other. RECAP captures that signal. The encryption is not broken, bypassed, or weakened – the recording happens after decryption, at the hardware level.

Zoom and Microsoft Teams

RECAP S2 works when you join a Zoom or Teams meeting from the mobile app with your headset connected. This is a useful alternative to Zoom’s and Teams’ built-in recording features, which notify all participants that the meeting is being recorded. With RECAP, the recording happens locally at your headset connection – no notification is sent to other participants.

Note: Skype was discontinued by Microsoft in May 2025. Skype users were migrated to Microsoft Teams. The same hardware setup works with Teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I record WhatsApp calls on iPhone?

Not with any built-in feature or app. Apple’s built-in call recording only works with the Phone app and FaceTime – not WhatsApp. There is no App Store app that can record WhatsApp call audio on iPhone. RECAP S2 records WhatsApp calls (and every other calling app) because it captures audio from the headset connection at the hardware level, outside of Apple’s software restrictions. See our iPhone call recording guide for the full setup.

Does recording Signal calls break the encryption?

No. Signal’s end-to-end encryption protects your call data while it travels between devices over the internet. RECAP captures audio after your phone has already decrypted it – at the analog headset connection. This is the same audio you hear through your headphones. The encryption remains intact for its intended purpose (protecting data in transit). Recording what you hear through your own headset does not compromise Signal’s security model.

Will the other person know I’m recording?

RECAP S2 is a passive hardware device. It does not send any notification, play any announcement, or alter the call in any way. The other party has no technical indication that you are recording. That said, recording laws vary by jurisdiction – some places require you to inform the other party. Check your local laws before recording any call.

Can I record video calls, or just audio?

RECAP S2 captures audio only. During a video call on WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, or any other app, the video displays on your phone screen as normal while RECAP captures the audio portion through your headset connection. If you need both audio and video, you would need to pair RECAP’s audio recording with a separate screen capture – but for most use cases, the audio is what matters.

What about Zoom’s built-in recording?

Zoom’s built-in recording feature works, but it notifies all participants that the meeting is being recorded. If you are the host, this may be fine. If you are a participant and want a personal record of the meeting, or if the notification is a problem for your use case, RECAP S2 records locally without any notification to other participants. The same applies to Microsoft Teams’ built-in recording.

Do I need different equipment for different apps?

No. The exact same RECAP S2 setup works with every calling app. Once you have your headset, adapter, and recording device connected, you can switch between WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, or any other app without changing anything. The hardware does not know or care which app is generating the audio.

Record WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, and every other calling app – on any phone.

Get RECAP S2 – $99 | No apps. No announcements. No subscriptions.

Works with every iPhone and Android phone. Ships worldwide. One-time purchase – no batteries, no monthly fees.

Need help choosing the right adapter for your phone? See our compatible adapters guide.

Recording on iPhone? Full iPhone guide | Recording on Android? Full Android guide

Your recording sounds distorted. The audio is crunchy, harsh, or outright painful to listen to. When you open the file in an editor, the waveform peaks are chopped flat instead of rounded. This is clipping — and it happens when the audio signal is louder than what your recording equipment can handle.

Clipping is one of the most common audio problems, and in most cases it is entirely preventable. This guide covers what causes it, how to stop it before it happens, and what you can do to salvage a recording that already has clipping damage.

What Clipping Looks Like

Open a clipped recording in a waveform editor like Audacity. Instead of smooth, rounded peaks and valleys, you will see flat tops and flat bottoms — the waveform hits the maximum level and stays there, as if someone took a pair of scissors to every peak.

A good way to think about it: normal audio looks like rolling hills. Clipped audio looks like a brick wall. The louder the original signal, the more of the waveform gets shaved off, and the worse the distortion sounds.

What Causes Clipping

Clipping occurs when the audio signal exceeds the maximum level your recording device can capture. Several things can push a signal past that limit:

Input level too high. The microphone or line input volume on your computer is turned up higher than the incoming signal requires. This is the most common cause.

Source too loud. The phone volume is set too high, or the audio source is outputting a strong line-level signal into a sensitive mic-level input. Hardware adapters like RECAP S2 output line-level audio, which is significantly hotter than what a typical mic input expects.

Microphone Boost enabled. Many computers have a Microphone Boost setting that adds extra gain on top of the input volume. This can push an otherwise acceptable signal well over the limit.

Multiple gain stages. Every device in the audio chain — the phone, the adapter, the computer — can add its own gain. These compound. A signal that is slightly hot at one stage becomes severely clipped after passing through two or three stages of amplification.

How to Prevent Clipping Before Recording

Prevention is always more effective than repair. A few adjustments before you hit record will save you from dealing with damaged audio later.

Lower the input volume on your computer. This is the single most effective fix. Open your system’s sound settings and reduce the recording input level. For a detailed walkthrough, see our microphone volume guide.

Disable Microphone Boost. On Windows, go to Sound settings, open the Recording tab, right-click your input device, select Properties, then go to the Levels tab. If Microphone Boost is enabled, set it to 0 dB.

Lower the phone volume slightly. If the audio source itself is too loud, reducing the volume at the source is the cleanest fix.

If using RECAP S2: The adapter outputs clean line-level audio, which is hotter than mic-level. Start with your computer’s input volume at 40-50% and adjust from there. For full setup instructions, see our computer recording guide.

Do a test recording. Before an important call, make a short test call and check the levels. Look at the waveform — if the peaks are hitting the top, lower the input. Aim for peaks around -6 dB, which gives you headroom without sacrificing quality. Adjust and repeat until the levels look clean.

How to Fix Clipping After Recording

If you already have a clipped recording, there are tools that can help — but set your expectations appropriately. Mild clipping can be improved. Severe clipping causes permanent data loss that no software can fully reverse.

Clip Fix (Audacity)

Go to Effect > Clip Fix. This effect examines the flat-topped peaks and interpolates what the original waveform probably looked like, reconstructing the missing curve. It works best on recordings with mild, occasional clipping.

Recommended settings: set the threshold to around 95% of maximum amplitude, and reduce the amplitude slightly to leave room for the restored peaks. Preview the result before applying — if the audio still sounds harsh, the clipping may be too severe for this approach.

Limiter for Future Recordings (Audacity)

While not a fix for existing clipping, applying a limiter during recording or as a post-processing step prevents future clipping. Go to Effect > Limiter, set it to “hard limit” at -1 dB. This catches peaks just before they hit the ceiling and holds them below the clipping threshold.

The Honest Truth About Severe Clipping

When peaks are flat-lined for extended stretches, the original audio data is gone. Software can guess at what was there, but the result is an approximation at best. If the recording is critical, professional audio restoration services may be able to improve it marginally, but even they cannot recreate data that was never captured. The takeaway: always get the levels right before you record.

Clipping vs. Other Distortion

Not all audio problems are clipping. Here is how to tell the difference:

Crackling or popping is usually caused by buffer underruns, a bad cable, or an incompatible audio device. The waveform will show sharp spikes rather than flat-topped peaks. This is a hardware or driver issue, not a level issue.

Muffled or underwater sound typically indicates a sample rate mismatch or the wrong input device being selected. Check that your recording software is using the correct input and that the sample rate matches your device’s settings.

Constant buzz or hum points to electrical interference or a ground loop. This shows up as a steady wave pattern overlaid on your audio, usually at 50 Hz or 60 Hz. It is unrelated to signal level.

If you are unsure which problem you are dealing with, see our software guide for recording setup recommendations that help avoid all of these issues.

Tips for RECAP S2 Users

RECAP S2 outputs clean, consistent line-level audio. If you hear clipping in your recordings, the issue is almost always on the computer side — the input gain is set too high for a line-level signal.

Start with your computer’s input volume at 40-50%. Make a test call and check the waveform. Adjust until the peaks sit around -6 dB — loud enough to be clear, with enough headroom to avoid clipping on louder moments.

If your computer only has a mic input and no dedicated line input, the signal may be too hot even at the lowest volume setting. In this case, a USB audio adapter with a line-level input will solve the problem cleanly. See our adapter guide for tested recommendations.

FAQ

Can I fix badly clipped audio? Mildly clipped audio can be improved with tools like Audacity’s Clip Fix effect, which estimates and reconstructs the missing peaks. Severely clipped audio — where the waveform is flat-lined for long stretches — is permanently damaged. The original data was never captured, so no software can fully restore it.

Is clipping the same as peaking? No. Peaking means the signal is approaching maximum level. Clipping means it exceeded the maximum and was cut off. A signal can peak without clipping, and brief peaks near 0 dB are normal. Clipping is what happens when the signal tries to go beyond what the system can represent — that is when distortion occurs.

If you need to record phone calls on your computer for legal documentation, business compliance, journalism, or personal reference, this guide covers every method available — including the complete hardware setup and recording process on both Windows and Mac. By the end, you should have working call recording in a single sitting.

Methods to Record Phone Calls on a Computer

There are several ways to capture phone call audio on a PC or Mac. Each method has different trade-offs in audio quality, reliability, and convenience. Here is an honest overview before we dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Method 1: RECAP S2 Hardware Adapter (Best Quality)

The RECAP S2 ($99) is a dedicated audio adapter that connects between your phone and a wired headset, then outputs both sides of the call directly to your computer’s microphone input. Because it captures the electrical audio signal rather than re-recording through the air, you get clean, full-fidelity audio of both voices. No apps, no batteries, no subscriptions — just a hardware connection.

Trade-offs: Requires a wired headset (not Bluetooth), an adapter for phones without a headphone jack, and a separate recording setup on your computer. The rest of this guide walks through the full RECAP S2 setup in detail.

Method 2: Speakerphone + Computer Microphone (Simplest, Lowest Quality)

The simplest approach: put your phone on speaker and use your computer’s built-in microphone (or an external USB microphone) to record the room audio.

How: Place your phone near your computer’s microphone, start a call on speaker, and hit record in any audio software (Audacity, OBS, QuickTime, Windows Sound Recorder).

Trade-offs: Audio quality is poor — you pick up room echo, background noise, and your voice will be much louder than the caller’s. Recordings are often unusable for transcription or legal purposes. This method works in a pinch but is not suitable for anything that requires clear, reliable audio.

Method 3: Google Voice Recording to Computer

If you make calls through Google Voice on your computer’s web browser, you can record incoming calls directly. Google Voice has a built-in recording feature (press 4 during a call to start recording), but it only works on incoming calls and announces the recording to all parties.

Trade-offs: Only works for incoming calls made through Google Voice. The recording announcement cannot be disabled. Call quality depends on your internet connection. You cannot record outgoing calls. Not suitable if you need discreet or flexible recording.

Method 4: Third-Party VoIP Apps with Built-In Recording

Some VoIP (Voice over IP) applications — such as Skype (discontinued May 2025, now redirects to Microsoft Teams), Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other conferencing tools — offer built-in call recording when you make phone calls through them.

Trade-offs: Requires making your calls through the app rather than your phone’s native dialer. Many VoIP apps notify all participants that recording is active. Recording quality depends on your internet connection. Monthly subscriptions may apply for phone number access. Not practical if you need to record standard cell phone calls from your phone’s regular number.

Why RECAP S2 Is the Best Option for Most Users

Unlike speakerphone recording, RECAP S2 captures a clean analog signal — no room noise, no echo, balanced volume on both sides. Unlike Google Voice or VoIP apps, it works with any phone call from any carrier, on any phone, using your regular phone number. There is no recording announcement, no subscription, and no dependency on internet quality. For anyone who needs reliable, high-quality phone call recordings on their computer, RECAP S2 is the most straightforward solution.

For a deeper comparison of recording software options (Audacity, OBS, QuickTime, and more), see our guide to the best call recording software for PC.

What You Need (RECAP S2 Method)

Recording phone calls to a computer with RECAP S2 requires a hardware adapter to route the call audio from your phone to your PC. Here is the complete list:

• RECAP S2 audio adapter ($99) — connects between your phone and headset, and outputs both sides of the call to a recording device
• A wired headset with a 3.5mm TRRS plug (most earbuds with a built-in microphone work)
• A USB-C or Lightning to 3.5mm adapter — if your phone does not have a headphone jack (most modern phones). See our adapter compatibility guide for tested recommendations.
• Recording software on your PC — Audacity (free), OBS Studio (free), Windows Sound Recorder, QuickTime, or another audio recorder

You may also need one of the following depending on your computer’s audio ports:

• A USB audio adapter — if your PC has no 3.5mm microphone input at all. See our adapter guide for recommendations.
• A TRRS splitter — if your laptop has a single combo headset jack instead of separate mic and headphone jacks

Hardware Setup: Step by Step

The signal chain is straightforward. Audio flows from your phone call, through RECAP S2, and into your computer’s microphone input.

Step 1: Connect Your Phone to RECAP S2

1. If your phone has a 3.5mm headset jack, plug RECAP S2 directly into it.
2. If your phone uses USB-C (Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 6+, most modern Android phones): connect a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter to your phone first, then plug RECAP S2 into the adapter. Use an active adapter with a built-in DAC — cheap passive adapters will not work with Samsung or Pixel phones.
3. If your iPhone uses Lightning: connect Apple’s Lightning to 3.5mm adapter to your phone first, then plug RECAP S2 into the adapter.
4. If your iPhone uses USB-C: use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter.

See our compatible adapters guide for tested options, pricing, and where to buy for your specific phone.

Step 2: Connect Your Headset

Plug your wired headset into the headset port on RECAP S2. You will talk and listen through this headset during your calls, just as you normally would. RECAP S2 passes audio through transparently — there is no change to call quality or experience for you or the other party.

Step 3: Connect RECAP S2 to Your Computer

RECAP S2 has a separate output cable that carries both sides of the call audio. This cable connects to your computer’s microphone input (not the headphone jack).

Identify your computer’s audio ports:

• Desktop PC with separate jacks: Look for the pink 3.5mm jack on the back or front panel — that is the microphone input. Plug RECAP S2’s output cable directly into it.
• Laptop with separate mic and headphone jacks: Plug RECAP S2’s output cable into the microphone jack (usually marked with a microphone icon or colored pink).
• Laptop with a single combo headset jack (most modern laptops): You need a TRRS splitter that separates the combo jack into individual microphone and headphone connections. Plug RECAP S2’s output cable into the microphone side of the splitter. TRRS splitters are widely available on Amazon.
• Computer with no 3.5mm jacks (USB-C only or no audio ports): You need a USB audio adapter that adds a 3.5mm microphone input via USB. See our compatible adapters guide for recommended USB audio adapters. Plug RECAP S2’s output cable into the adapter’s mic input, and plug the adapter into a USB port on your computer.

Complete Signal Chain

Here is the full connection path:

Phone → adapter (if needed) → RECAP S2 → headset (you talk here)
                                    ↓
                              output cable
                                    ↓
                    PC microphone input (or USB audio adapter)

Once everything is connected, make a test call before recording anything important. Call a friend or your voicemail, and confirm that you can hear the caller through your headset and that they can hear you.

Recording on Windows

Selecting the Right Input Device

Before recording, you need to tell Windows to use the correct microphone input — the one RECAP S2 is connected to.

1. Right-click the speaker icon in the system tray (bottom-right of your screen).
2. Click Sound settings (Windows 11) or Open Sound settings (Windows 10).
3. Scroll down to the Input section.
4. Under “Choose a device for speaking or recording,” select the input that RECAP S2 is connected to. This will be your computer’s built-in microphone jack (labeled something like “Microphone – Realtek Audio”) or your USB audio adapter (labeled something like “Microphone – USB Audio Device”).
5. Speak into your headset while watching the input level meter. You should see it move. If it does not, you have the wrong device selected — try the other options in the dropdown.

Adjusting Microphone Volume

The input volume needs to be set correctly or your recording will be too quiet or distorted.

1. In the same Sound settings window, click on the input device you selected.
2. Adjust the Input volume slider. Start at 80% and test.
3. Make a test call and watch the level meter. The meter should bounce actively during conversation without hitting the maximum constantly.

If the audio is too quiet even at 100%, you may need to enable Microphone Boost in the advanced audio settings. See our detailed guide: How to adjust microphone volume on PC.

If the audio sounds distorted or clipped, the input volume is too high. Lower it until the distortion stops. See: How to fix clipping sound in recordings.

Option A: Recording with Audacity (Recommended)

Audacity is free, open-source, and the best option for most users. It gives you level monitoring, voice-activated recording, and audio editing tools.

Initial setup (one time):

1. Download and install Audacity from audacityteam.org.
2. In the top toolbar, click the Audio Setup button (or go to Edit > Preferences > Audio Settings).
3. Set the Recording Device to your microphone input (the same one you selected in Windows Sound settings).
4. Set Recording Channels to Mono. Phone calls are mono audio — recording in stereo doubles the file size for no benefit.
5. Click OK.

Recording a call:

1. Open Audacity and confirm the correct input device is selected in the toolbar.
2. Start your phone call.
3. Click the red Record button in Audacity. You should see a waveform appear as audio comes through.
4. When the call ends, click Stop.
5. Go to File > Export Audio and save as MP3 (128kbps is sufficient for voice) or WAV.

Voice-activated recording (hands-free):

If you want Audacity to start recording automatically when a call begins:

1. Go to Transport > Transport Options > Sound Activated Recording and enable it.
2. Go to Transport > Transport Options > Sound Activation Level and set the threshold. Start at -30dB and adjust — the threshold should be above your room’s background noise level but below normal conversation volume.
3. Click Record. Audacity will wait silently until it detects audio above the threshold, then begin capturing.

This is especially useful if you want to automatically record every phone call without pressing any buttons.

Option B: Recording with OBS Studio

OBS Studio is a free, open-source tool primarily known for streaming and screen recording, but it also works well as a dedicated audio recorder. OBS is a strong choice if you already use it for other tasks or want to record audio alongside screen activity.

Setup for audio-only recording:

1. Download and install OBS Studio from obsproject.com.
2. In the main window, go to Settings > Audio.
3. Under Global Audio Devices, set Mic/Auxiliary Audio to the input RECAP S2 is connected to.
4. Click OK.
5. In the Audio Mixer panel at the bottom, you should see the mic channel. Speak into your headset and confirm the level meter moves.
6. To record audio only (no video), go to Settings > Output, set Recording Format to MKV or MP4, and under Audio Encoder, choose AAC or MP3.
7. Click Start Recording when your call begins, and Stop Recording when it ends.

OBS is more complex than Audacity for simple call recording, but it offers flexible multi-source mixing if you need it. For a full comparison of OBS, Audacity, and other recording software, see our software guide.

Option C: Recording with Windows Sound Recorder

If you do not want to install any software, Windows has a built-in option.

1. Open the Start menu and search for Sound Recorder (Windows 11) or Voice Recorder (Windows 10).
2. If prompted, select the correct input device.
3. Click the large Record button to start.
4. Click Stop when your call ends.
5. The recording saves automatically in M4A format.

Sound Recorder is simpler than Audacity or OBS but lacks level monitoring, voice activation, and editing tools. It works well for quick, occasional recordings.

Recording on Mac

Selecting the Input Device

1. Open System Settings (click the Apple menu > System Settings).
2. Go to Sound in the sidebar.
3. Scroll down to the Input section.
4. Select the input that RECAP S2 is connected to. This will be “Line In” (if your Mac has a 3.5mm input jack) or your USB audio adapter’s name (if using a USB adapter like the Andrea USB-MA).
5. Speak into your headset and watch the Input level meter. It should respond. If it does not, try selecting a different input device.
6. Adjust the Input volume slider. Start at 80% and test during a call.

Option A: Recording with QuickTime (Built-In)

QuickTime Player is already installed on every Mac and works well for simple call recording.

1. Open QuickTime Player (find it in Applications or use Spotlight search).
2. Go to File > New Audio Recording.
3. Click the small dropdown arrow next to the record button. Select the input device that RECAP S2 is connected to.
4. Adjust the volume slider to set recording level. Watch the level meter as you speak.
5. Click the red Record button when your call starts.
6. Click Stop when the call ends.
7. Go to File > Save or File > Export As to save the recording. QuickTime saves in M4A format by default.

QuickTime is simple and reliable but does not offer voice activation or waveform display during recording.

Option B: Recording with Audacity on Mac

Audacity works identically on Mac as it does on Windows. Follow the same steps from the Windows Audacity section above:

1. Download Audacity from audacityteam.org.
2. Set the recording device to your Mac’s audio input or USB audio adapter.
3. Set channels to Mono.
4. Click Record when your call starts, Stop when it ends.
5. Export as MP3 or WAV.

Audacity on Mac offers the same voice-activated recording feature — useful for hands-free, automatic call recording.

Recording Software Comparison

Choosing the right recording software depends on your needs. Here is a quick comparison of the most common options:

For a detailed breakdown with advanced options like Reaper and Adobe Audition, see our complete software comparison guide.

Recommended Recording Settings

Whatever software you use on either platform, these settings produce the best results for phone call audio:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

No Audio Detected

Symptom: Your recording software shows no input, the level meter does not move.

Fix: 1. Check that you selected the correct input device in your OS sound settings AND in your recording software. These are separate settings — both must point to the right input. 2. Make sure RECAP S2’s output cable is plugged into your PC’s microphone input, not the headphone output. 3. Try a different USB port if using a USB audio adapter. 4. On Windows, make sure the microphone is not muted or disabled in Sound settings > Input device properties.

Audio Too Quiet

Symptom: The recording is barely audible even at full playback volume.

Fix: 1. Increase the microphone input volume in your OS sound settings (see instructions above). 2. On Windows, enable Microphone Boost in the advanced input device properties. 3. In Audacity, use Effect > Amplify after recording to boost the volume. 4. See our detailed guide: How to adjust microphone volume.

Audio Distorted or Clipping

Symptom: The recording sounds crunchy, harsh, or distorted. The waveform in Audacity looks like it is hitting the top and bottom edges (flat-topped).

Fix: 1. Lower the microphone input volume in your OS sound settings. Try 50-60%. 2. Lower the phone’s call volume during the call. 3. In Audacity, if the waveform is clipped, use Effect > Clip Fix to attempt repair (results vary). 4. See our detailed guide: How to fix clipping sound in recordings.

Only Hearing One Side of the Call

Symptom: The recording captures your voice but not the caller’s, or vice versa.

Fix: 1. Make sure your phone adapter is an active adapter with a built-in DAC (not a passive adapter). This is the most common cause on Samsung and Pixel phones. See our adapter compatibility guide. 2. Check that RECAP S2 is fully seated in the adapter and the headset is fully plugged into RECAP S2. 3. Try unplugging and reconnecting each connection in the chain. 4. If using a USB-C adapter on Android, try a different adapter — see our compatible adapters guide for tested options that work reliably on all phones.

Recording Starts but Audio Cuts In and Out

Symptom: Audio drops intermittently during the recording.

Fix: 1. Check all physical connections — a loose cable is the most common cause. 2. If using voice-activated recording in Audacity, the activation threshold may be set too high. Lower it (e.g., from -20dB to -35dB) so the software does not cut out during quieter speech. 3. Try a different cable or adapter to rule out a hardware defect.

Advanced: Automatic Recording

If you record calls regularly and want a hands-free workflow where every call is captured without pressing buttons, you have two options:

1. Audacity’s Sound Activated Recording — Audacity listens for audio above a threshold and records automatically. Leave it running in the background, and it captures every call. See the setup steps in the Windows and Mac sections above.
2. A dedicated voice-activated recorder — Digital voice recorders from Sony, Olympus, and Zoom have VOR (Voice Operated Recording) modes that start and stop based on audio detection. Connect RECAP S2’s output to the recorder instead of your PC.

For a complete walkthrough of both approaches, see our guide: How to automatically record every phone call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I record phone calls on my computer without any hardware?

Not with high quality. Your phone and computer are separate devices, so there is no software that can route live phone call audio from your cell phone to your PC with full fidelity. You can use the speakerphone method (put the call on speaker and record with your computer’s microphone), but the audio quality will be poor due to room noise and echo. For clean recordings of both sides of the call, you need a hardware connection like RECAP S2.

Do I need a specific type of headset?

Any wired headset or earbuds with a 3.5mm TRRS plug (the kind with a built-in microphone) will work. Bluetooth headsets and AirPods will not work — RECAP S2 requires a wired connection because it captures the audio signal from the physical cable.

Can I use RECAP S2 with any phone?

Yes. RECAP S2 works with every phone that supports a wired headset — iPhones (all models, using the appropriate adapter), Android phones (all manufacturers and OS versions), and even landline desk phones with a headset jack. See our adapter guide for the right adapter for your specific phone.

What if my computer only has USB-C ports and no audio jacks?

Use a USB audio adapter that adds a 3.5mm microphone input via USB. See our compatible adapters guide for recommended USB audio adapters. Plug RECAP S2’s output into the adapter, and plug the adapter into your computer’s USB port.

Will the other person know I am recording?

RECAP S2 is a hardware device that does not interact with your phone’s software in any way. It does not trigger any recording notification, beep, or announcement. The other party will not know unless you tell them. Whether you are required to tell them depends on your local recording laws.

What audio quality can I expect?

RECAP S2 delivers a clean analog audio signal directly from the call. Recording quality depends on your software settings, but with the recommended settings (44,100 Hz, 16-bit, MP3 128kbps), you will get clear, professional-quality audio suitable for transcription, legal documentation, or archiving.

Can I use OBS Studio instead of Audacity to record calls?

Yes. OBS Studio works as an audio recorder by setting your microphone input to the RECAP S2 source and starting a recording. OBS is a good choice if you already use it for streaming or screen recording. However, Audacity is generally easier for audio-only call recording because it offers voice-activated recording, a waveform display, and built-in editing tools. See our software comparison guide for a full breakdown.

Is there a way to record phone calls on my computer for free?

The recording software itself is free — Audacity, OBS Studio, QuickTime, and Windows Sound Recorder all cost nothing. The hardware is the only cost: the RECAP S2 adapter is $99 (one-time purchase, no subscription), and you may need a phone adapter if your phone lacks a headphone jack (see our adapter guide for options and pricing).

Ready to start recording phone calls on your computer?

Get RECAP S2 — $99 — captures both sides of any phone call and outputs directly to your PC. No apps, no batteries, no subscriptions.

See also: Compatible adapters for your phone | Best recording software for PC | How to adjust microphone volume | How to fix clipping sound

How to Record Phone Calls to a Digital Voice Recorder in 2026

Most call recording guides assume you want an app or a computer. But a digital voice recorder paired with the right adapter is simpler, more portable, and more reliable for people who record phone calls regularly.

This guide covers every way to record phone calls to a voice recorder, which recorders work best, and how to set up voice-activated recording so you never miss a call.

All the Ways to Record Phone Calls

Before diving into voice recorders specifically, here is a quick overview of every method for recording phone calls — because the right approach depends on your situation.

Built-In Phone Recording

Some phones have native call recording. Google Pixel phones (Pixel 6 and later) support call recording directly in the Phone app. Samsung Galaxy phones with recent One UI versions offer it in some regions. On iPhone, Apple introduced call recording natively.

Pros: No extra hardware. Free. Cons: Limited availability by device and region. Recordings stored on the phone. Some implementations notify the other party automatically, which may not be desirable for all use cases.

Recording Apps

Third-party apps like Rev Call Recorder, TapeACall, or Cube ACR can record calls on both Android and iPhone.

Pros: Easy to install. Some offer transcription. Cons: Many require a monthly subscription. Call quality varies. Some route calls through a third-party server, raising privacy concerns. App-based recording has become increasingly restricted on both Android and iOS in recent years.

Recording to a Computer

You can record phone calls to a PC or Mac using the RECAP S2 adapter connected to software like Audacity or OBS. This gives you studio-level control over recording quality and format.

Pros: Full control over audio settings. Large storage capacity. Easy file management. Cons: Requires a computer and desk setup. Not portable.

Recording to a Digital Voice Recorder

This is the focus of this guide. A dedicated voice recorder paired with the RECAP S2 adapter gives you a portable, self-contained recording setup — no computer, no apps, no subscriptions. You plug in, make your call, and the recorder captures both sides of the conversation.

Pros: Extremely portable. Dedicated device — no crashes, no notifications. Battery lasts 20-100+ hours. Voice-activated recording means hands-free operation. Cons: Requires the RECAP S2 adapter ($99) and a wired headset. Modern phones without a 3.5mm jack need an adapter (see compatible adapters).

Why a voice recorder wins for many use cases: If you record calls away from a desk — in the car, in the field, at client sites — a voice recorder is the most reliable and portable option. The rest of this guide shows you exactly how to set it up.

Why Use a Voice Recorder Instead of a Computer?

Recording phone calls to a computer works when you are at a desk. But plenty of situations call for something more portable. Here is why a dedicated voice recorder makes sense:

Portability

A voice recorder fits in a shirt pocket. Combined with the RECAP S2 and a pair of earbuds, you have a complete call recording setup you can carry anywhere — in the car, out in the field, at a client site, or on the road between meetings. No laptop bag required.

Instant On

Voice recorders power up in seconds. There is no operating system to boot, no software to launch, no driver updates interrupting you mid-call. Slide a switch or press a button and you are recording.

Battery Life That Lasts

Modern voice recorders run for 20 to 100+ hours on a single charge or a pair of AAA batteries. Compare that to a laptop that might give you 6 to 8 hours on a good day. For people who record calls throughout a full workday or across multi-day trips, that battery life is a genuine advantage.

Dedicated Device

When you record on a computer, your recording software competes with everything else running on the machine — notifications, video calls, system updates. A voice recorder does one thing and does it well. It will not crash because your browser ran out of memory.

Voice-Activated Recording

Many voice recorders have a voice-activated recording mode (often called VOR or VAR). This means the recorder starts automatically when it detects audio and pauses when the line goes silent. Set it up once, and you get automatic recording of every call without pressing a single button. More on this below.

What You Need

The setup requires just a few pieces. No apps, no batteries to worry about (the recorder handles its own power), and no subscriptions:

• Your phone (any cell phone or desk phone with a headset jack or adapter)
• A headset adapter if your phone does not have a 3.5mm jack (see compatible adapters)
• The RECAP S2 ($99) — connects between your phone and headset, outputs call audio to a recording device
• A digital voice recorder with a 3.5mm mic or line input
• Earbuds or a headset with a 3.5mm plug

That is the entire kit. The RECAP S2 requires no batteries or charging — it is powered passively by the audio signal. Everything except the phone fits in a pocket.

Important to know: The RECAP S2 requires a wired headset connection. If your phone does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack (most modern phones), you will need a compatible adapter. Our adapters guide covers which adapters work with which phones, including the difference between passive and active DAC adapters.

How to Set It Up

Step 1: Connect the Chain

The signal chain is straightforward:

Phone –> adapter (if needed) –> RECAP S2 –> headset/earbuds + voice recorder

The RECAP S2 sits between your phone and your headset. It passes audio through to your earbuds so you hear the call normally, and simultaneously outputs that same audio through a separate cable that plugs into your recorder.

Step 2: Connect the Recorder

Take the RECAP S2 output cable (3.5mm) and plug it into the mic input or line input on your voice recorder. Most recorders have a single 3.5mm input jack that serves both purposes.

Step 3: Configure the Recorder’s Input

This step is important. You need to tell the recorder to capture audio from its external input rather than its built-in microphone:

• Navigate to the recorder’s input source or recording source setting
• Select “External Mic”, “Mic In”, or “Line In” (the label varies by model)
• If your recorder offers both mic and line input modes, start with mic mode — the RECAP S2 output level works well with mic-level inputs

If the recording sounds distorted or too loud, switch to line-in mode or reduce the input level. If it sounds too quiet, increase the input level or ensure you are in mic mode.

Step 4: Set Recording Quality

For phone call recordings, you do not need studio-quality settings. A good balance of audio clarity and file size:

• Format: MP3
• Bitrate: 128 kbps
• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

At 128 kbps MP3, a 4GB recorder holds roughly 60 hours of recordings. That is a lot of calls before you need to transfer files.

If you need higher fidelity for legal or compliance purposes, record in WAV format at 44.1 kHz / 16-bit. Files will be larger (about 10 MB per minute of stereo audio), but the quality will be lossless.

Step 5: Test Before Your First Real Call

Call a friend or your own voicemail. Verify that:

• You can hear the call through your earbuds
• The recorder captures both your voice and the other party
• The volume levels are reasonable on playback
• There is no distortion or clipping

Adjust input levels as needed, then you are ready to go.

Recommended Voice Recorders for Phone Call Recording

Any digital voice recorder with a 3.5mm mic/line input will work with the RECAP S2. Here are solid options at three price points:

A Few Notes on Choosing

If you want simplicity, go with the OM System VN-541PC. It is inexpensive and has one-touch recording. You press one button and it records. Connect via USB to transfer files. Done. Note that this model does not include voice-activated recording (VOR), so you will need to manually start and stop recording for each call.

If you want the best balance of features and quality, the Sony ICD-UX570 is hard to beat. The built-in USB connector means you do not need a cable to transfer files — just flip out the USB plug and connect directly to your computer. Voice-activated recording, an OLED display, and microSD expansion make it a capable all-around recorder. Check current pricing at Sony.com as retail price varies.

If you want professional-grade audio, the Zoom H1essential gives you 32-bit float recording, which means the recorder captures an enormous dynamic range and essentially eliminates the risk of clipping or distortion. Its 3.5mm mic/line input works perfectly with the RECAP S2. The trade-off is that it uses microSD cards (not built-in storage) and runs on AAA batteries, but those batteries last about 10 hours and are replaceable anywhere.

If you want versatility, the Tascam DR-05X doubles as a USB audio interface and has excellent auto-level controls (limiter, peak reduction, auto level) that help prevent distortion without manual adjustment. Tascam has also released the DR-05XP as a successor with updated features — both work well with the RECAP S2.

Voice-Activated Recording: Record Every Call Automatically

Voice-activated recording is the feature that makes this setup truly hands-free. Here is how to configure it.

For a deeper look at automatic call recording strategies — including computer-based approaches — see our guide to automatically recording every phone call.

Enable VOR/VAR Mode

Many recorders label this feature VOR (Voice-Operated Recording) or VAR (Voice-Activated Recording). Find it in your recorder’s settings menu and turn it on.

Note: Not all recorders include VOR. Of the models recommended in this guide, the Sony ICD-UX570, Tascam DR-05X/DR-05XP, and Zoom H1essential support voice-activated recording. The OM System VN-541PC does not — if automatic recording is essential to your workflow, choose one of the other three models.

Set the Sensitivity

The recorder’s sensitivity threshold determines how loud the audio needs to be before recording starts. You want it sensitive enough to trigger on call audio coming through the RECAP S2, but not so sensitive that room noise starts and stops the recording constantly.

• Start with a medium sensitivity setting
• Make a test call and check if the recorder starts and stops reliably
• If it misses the beginning of sentences, increase sensitivity
• If it triggers on background noise when no one is talking, decrease sensitivity

How It Works in Practice

With voice-activated recording configured:

1. You plug in the RECAP S2 and put your earbuds in
2. The recorder sits in your pocket or on the desk, powered on and in VOR mode
3. When a call comes in and audio flows, the recorder starts capturing automatically
4. When the call ends and audio stops, the recorder pauses
5. The next call triggers a new recording (or continues the same file, depending on your recorder’s settings)

No buttons to press. No “I forgot to hit record.” Every call gets captured.

Transferring and Organizing Recordings

After a day of recording calls, you will want to get those files off the recorder and organized.

Transfer via USB

Most voice recorders connect to a PC or Mac via USB (micro-USB, USB-C, or a built-in USB connector). The recorder appears as a removable drive, and you can copy files directly.

File Naming

Recorders typically name files sequentially (e.g., VOICE001.mp3, VOICE002.mp3). After transferring, rename files with useful information:

• 2026-01-15_john-smith_contract-review.mp3
• 2026-01-15_client-call_support-issue-4821.mp3

A consistent naming convention saves time when you need to find a specific call later.

Backup Strategy

Do not rely on the recorder as your only copy. After transferring files:

• Keep a local folder on your computer organized by date or client
• Back up to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) for redundancy
• Delete files from the recorder once confirmed on your computer to free up space

Transcription

Once your recordings are on your computer as MP3 or WAV files, you can run them through any transcription service — Google Docs voice typing, Otter.ai, or desktop transcription software. Having both the audio file and a text transcript is useful for reference, searchability, and compliance.

The Portable Field Setup

One of the biggest advantages of recording to a voice recorder is how portable the entire setup becomes. Here is what the pocket-sized field kit looks like:

• Phone — in your hand or pocket as usual
• RECAP S2 — clips to a pocket or sits in a bag
• Voice recorder — in a pocket, set to voice-activated mode
• Earbuds — in your ears

That is it. No laptop, no power outlet, no desk. Everything travels with you. No apps to install, no batteries to charge for the RECAP S2 (it draws power from the audio signal), and no subscriptions eating into your budget month after month.

This setup is particularly valuable for:

• Journalists conducting phone interviews in the field
• Investigators who need reliable call documentation away from the office
• Sales reps recording client calls from the car between appointments
• Insurance adjusters documenting claims calls on location
• Legal professionals capturing witness or client conversations on the go

The entire kit weighs a few ounces and records for hours on a single charge.

Legal Considerations

Before you start recording, know the laws in your jurisdiction. Recording laws vary by state and country:

• Some jurisdictions require one-party consent (only you need to know about the recording)
• Others require all-party consent (everyone on the call must be informed)

Always check your local laws before recording phone calls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any voice recorder with the RECAP S2?

Yes, as long as it has a 3.5mm mic or line input jack. The RECAP S2 outputs standard analog audio through a 3.5mm cable. Budget recorders, professional field recorders, and everything in between will work.

Will the other person hear any difference on the call?

No. The RECAP S2 passes audio through to your earbuds without affecting call quality. The other party will not know a recorder is connected.

What if my voice recorder does not have voice-activated recording?

You can still use it — you will just need to manually press record when a call starts and stop when it ends. If automatic recording is important to you, look for a recorder with VOR or VAR mode. Of the four models recommended in this guide, three support voice-activated recording: the Sony ICD-UX570, Tascam DR-05X/DR-05XP, and Zoom H1essential. The OM System VN-541PC requires manual start/stop.

How much recording time do I get?

It depends on the recorder’s storage and your quality settings. At 128 kbps MP3, expect roughly 15 hours of recording per gigabyte. A recorder with 4GB of internal storage holds about 60 hours. With a 32GB microSD card, you are looking at 480+ hours — more than most people will ever need between transfers.

Do I need a computer at all?

Not for recording. The RECAP S2 and a voice recorder handle everything independently. You will only need a computer when you want to transfer files off the recorder, back them up, or run transcription software. The recording itself is completely computer-free.

Get Started

The RECAP S2 adapter is $99 and works with any phone and any recording device with a 3.5mm input. Pair it with a voice recorder and you have a simple, portable call recording setup that works anywhere — no computer, no software, no subscriptions.

Pick up a RECAP S2 and any of the recorders above, and you will be recording calls in minutes.

If you prefer recording to a computer instead, see our guide on how to record cell phone calls on a computer. And for more on setting up fully automatic call recording, check out our auto-record guide.

If your phone call recordings sound too quiet or distorted, the problem is almost always the microphone input level on your computer. Setting it too low gives you a barely audible recording. Setting it too high causes clipping and distortion that no amount of post-processing can fix.

The good news: adjusting it takes about 30 seconds on both Windows and Mac. Here is how to do it, plus how to tell when you have it right.

When You Need to Adjust

There are two symptoms to watch for:

Too quiet. You play back a recording and have to crank the volume to hear anything. If you open the file in audio software, the waveform is a thin line hugging the center.

Too loud (clipping). The recording sounds harsh or crunchy. Loud parts are distorted. In an audio editor, the waveform is smashed flat against the top and bottom edges — the signal exceeded what the system could capture, and the peaks were chopped off.

The goal is a strong, clean signal without clipping. You want your loudest peaks landing around 50-80% of the maximum level. In decibel terms, that means peaks between -12 dB and -6 dB. This leaves enough headroom for sudden loud moments while keeping the signal well above the noise floor.

Adjusting Microphone Volume on Windows

Windows 11

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Sound.
3. Scroll down to Input and select your microphone device.
4. Use the Input volume slider to raise or lower the level.

Windows 10

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Sound.
3. Under Input, choose your microphone from the dropdown.
4. Click Device properties.
5. Use the Volume slider to adjust.

Advanced Controls (Windows 10 and 11)

For finer control, use the classic Sound panel:

1. Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
2. Select Sound settings, then scroll down and click More sound settings (Windows 11) or click Sound Control Panel (Windows 10).
3. Go to the Recording tab.
4. Double-click your microphone device to open its Properties.
5. Go to the Levels tab.

Here you will find two controls:

• Microphone — the main input volume slider (0-100).
• Microphone Boost — adds hardware-level gain in +10 dB increments.

Microphone Boost is useful when the signal is extremely weak even at 100% volume, but it amplifies everything, including background noise and electrical hum. Use it sparingly and only when the main slider is not enough.

Adjusting Microphone Volume on Mac

System Settings

1. Open System Settings (click the Apple menu, then System Settings).
2. Click Sound.
3. Select the Input tab.
4. Choose your microphone or audio input device from the list.
5. Drag the Input volume slider to adjust.

The input level meter next to the slider shows real-time activity. Speak or play audio and watch the meter respond.

Audio MIDI Setup (Advanced)

For more precise control, open Audio MIDI Setup (found in /Applications/Utilities/). This utility lets you select specific sample rates and bit depths and adjust input gain for devices that support it. It is especially useful when working with external audio interfaces or USB audio devices.

Setting the Right Level

The best way to dial in your level is to watch the meter while sending a real signal:

1. Open your recording software — Audacity, OBS, or another app that works for your setup.
2. Start a test call, or speak into the microphone at the volume you expect during actual use.
3. Watch the input level meter in your software. Aim for peaks that land in the green-to-yellow range. The meter should bounce actively but never hit red.
4. In Audacity specifically, the recording meter should peak between -12 dB and -6 dB. If it regularly hits 0 dB, you are clipping.
5. Go back to your system settings and nudge the input volume up or down until the meter sits in the right zone.

It is better to record slightly too quiet than too loud. A quiet recording can be amplified later with minimal quality loss. A clipped recording is permanently damaged.

Common Problems

No signal at all. The most likely cause is having the wrong input device selected. If you have multiple audio devices connected (built-in mic, USB headset, external adapter), check both your OS sound settings and your recording software to make sure they are pointed at the correct device.

Very quiet even at 100%. On Windows, try enabling Microphone Boost in the advanced Levels tab (see above). On Mac, verify that your input is not set to Line In when you need Mic In, or vice versa. These are different signal levels, and using the wrong one will result in a very weak or very hot signal.

Crackling or distortion. The input level is too high. Reduce the input volume slider. If you have Microphone Boost enabled on Windows, try lowering it by one step or disabling it entirely.

Electrical hum or buzz. This is often caused by a ground loop, which happens when two connected devices have slightly different electrical ground potentials. Try plugging into a different USB port. If the problem persists, a USB audio adapter with galvanic isolation can break the ground loop. Moving the audio cable away from power cables can also help.

If You Are Using RECAP S2

RECAP S2 outputs a line-level audio signal, which is significantly stronger than a typical microphone signal. This is by design — it gives you a clean, full-strength signal — but it means your input level settings will be different from what you would use with a regular mic.

• If the recording is distorted: reduce the input level to around 50% as a starting point.
• If the recording is too quiet: increase toward 75-80% and test again.

Because the signal is line-level, you should generally not need Microphone Boost enabled on Windows. If you do, something else may be misconfigured.

For complete setup instructions — including how to connect RECAP S2 to your computer and configure your recording software — see our computer recording guide.

FAQ

Should I use Microphone Boost? Only as a last resort. If your signal is too quiet with the main volume slider at 100%, Boost can help, but it adds noise proportional to the gain. Try one step of Boost (+10 dB) and see if the noise is acceptable. If you need more than one step, the root issue is likely an impedance mismatch or wrong input type, not insufficient gain.

My USB device does not show a volume slider in system settings. Some USB audio devices handle gain internally and do not expose a system-level volume control. Check whether the device came with its own software or control panel — the volume adjustment may live there instead. If there is no software, the device may have a physical volume knob or be fixed-gain by design.

Does this apply to Mac and Windows the same way? The concept is identical: you are adjusting how much the system amplifies the incoming signal before it reaches your recording software. The only differences are where the controls live in each operating system. The target levels (-12 dB to -6 dB peaks) apply regardless of platform.

If you need to record phone calls on Android, Google has made it harder than ever — most third-party recording apps no longer work on recent Android versions. This guide covers every method that actually works to record phone calls on Android, from built-in features to hardware solutions, so you can pick the right one for your situation.

Method 1: Built-In Call Recording (Pixel, Samsung, Others)

The easiest option — if your phone and region support it. Several Android manufacturers now ship native call recording in their dialer apps.

Google Pixel

Google rolled out native call recording to Pixel phones (Pixel 6 and newer), making it available in the US, UK, and several other countries through the Google Phone app.

How to use it: 1. Open the Phone app and make or receive a call. 2. Tap the Record button on the call screen. 3. An audible announcement plays: “This call is being recorded.” 4. Tap Stop recording when done. The file saves to your phone.

Limitations: – Both parties are notified — an audible announcement plays that you cannot disable. This is a dealbreaker for many professional use cases (journalism, legal, business calls) where you need discreet recording. – Requires a recent Android version and the Google Phone app on a Pixel 6 or newer. – Not available everywhere — while the US and UK are now supported, many countries in Europe, South America, and Asia are still excluded. If your phone’s region setting doesn’t match a supported country, the record button won’t appear. – No auto-recording — you have to manually tap Record on every call. If you want hands-free recording on every call, see our guide on how to automatically record every phone call. – Recordings save in M4A format, which is a standard audio format that works in most players and editors.

Samsung Galaxy

Samsung added native call recording in the US with Samsung’s One UI. Samsung calls the feature “Call Transcript.”

The feature is available on a wide range of Galaxy devices including the Galaxy S25, S24, S23, Z Fold 6, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 6, Z Flip 5, A55, A54, and other eligible models. The exact availability varies by carrier and region.

How to use it: 1. During a call in the Samsung Phone app, tap the Record or Transcript button. 2. An audible announcement notifies both parties that the call is being recorded. 3. Samsung saves both the audio recording and an AI-generated transcript.

Limitations: – Both parties are notified — same as Pixel, an audible announcement plays. – Requires a recent One UI version — available on Galaxy S25, S24, S23, Z Fold/Flip 5 and 6, and select A-series devices that have received the update. Older models are not supported. – No auto-recording — must be activated manually each call. – Region-dependent — while the US is now supported, many regions where Samsung previously offered recording (parts of Asia) have different availability depending on local laws. – Transcripts available in about 20 languages.

Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Other OEMs

Several Chinese manufacturers include call recording in their phone apps: – Xiaomi (MIUI/HyperOS): Built-in call recording in the Xiaomi Phone app. Often available in more regions than Pixel or Samsung. – OnePlus (OxygenOS): Recording available in the default Phone app on some models. – Realme, Vivo, Oppo: Various levels of support depending on regional firmware.

These tend to be the least restricted, but availability changes between firmware updates and regions. Don’t count on consistency across devices.

When Built-In Recording Works

Built-in recording is fine if: – Your phone supports it in your region – You don’t mind the other party hearing a recording announcement – You only need occasional, manual recording – M4A or standard audio format output is acceptable

It’s not suitable when you need discreet recording, automatic recording, or when your phone/region combination doesn’t support it.

Method 2: Third-Party Call Recording Apps

Despite Google’s crackdown, a handful of third-party apps still attempt to record phone calls on Android. But “attempt” is the key word.

What’s Still Available

Cube ACR is the most well-known surviving call recording app. It uses an “App Connector” plugin to work outside the Play Store restrictions. However: – On current Android versions, many users report it only records their own voice, not the other party’s. This makes it useless for most purposes. – The App Connector plugin may need to be downloaded and configured separately from the main app. – Functionality varies wildly between phone manufacturers. What works on Samsung may not work on Xiaomi, and vice versa.

A few other apps (Call Recorder Automatic, various regional apps) exist on the Play Store, but they face the same fundamental limitation: Android blocks apps from accessing the other party’s audio stream during a call.

The Reality of App-Based Recording Today

Here’s what you should know before investing time in app-based solutions:

• Most apps can only record your voice, not both sides of the conversation. This is an OS-level restriction, not an app bug.
• Apps that claim to record both sides typically require root access (voiding your warranty and potentially bricking your phone).
• Every Android update can break recording apps. If you find something that works today, it may stop working after the next security patch.
• Apps installed from outside the Play Store receive no automatic security vetting. You’re trusting unknown developers with microphone access.

When Third-Party Apps Work

App-based recording can work if: – You have an older Android version where restrictions are less severe – You only need to record your own side of the conversation – You’re willing to root your phone (advanced users only) – You accept that it may break with any update

For everyone else, app-based recording is unreliable at best.

Method 3: Google Voice and VoIP Workarounds

If you use Google Voice for calls, it has a built-in recording option:

1. Open the Google Voice app and go to Settings > Calls > Incoming call options.
2. During an incoming call, press 4 on the dial pad to start recording.
3. Press 4 again to stop. The recording saves to your Google Voice inbox.

Limitations: – Only works for incoming calls — you cannot record outgoing calls. – Both parties hear an announcement when recording starts and stops. – Requires a Google Voice number and routing calls through Google Voice. – Audio quality depends on your internet connection.

Other VoIP services (Skype, Zoom, Teams) have their own recording features, but these only work for calls made through those apps — not regular phone calls.

Method 4: Speakerphone + External Recorder

A low-tech option: put the call on speaker and record with another device.

1. Make or receive your call and tap Speaker.
2. Use a second phone, digital voice recorder, or computer to record the audio in the room.

Limitations: – Terrible audio quality — room echo, background noise, and uneven volume between your voice and the caller’s. – Not private — everyone nearby hears the conversation. – Unreliable — background noise can make recordings unusable.

This works in a pinch, but anyone who needs reliable, clear recordings for professional use will find it inadequate.

How to Record Phone Calls on Android with a Hardware Adapter

The methods above all have significant trade-offs: notification announcements, one-sided recording, region restrictions, or poor audio quality. A hardware adapter bypasses all of these limitations because it captures audio at the electrical signal level — outside the reach of Android’s software restrictions.

RECAP S2 is an audio adapter that connects between your phone and a headset. It taps the audio signal carrying both sides of the conversation and routes it to any recording device — a computer, digital voice recorder, tablet, or second phone. No apps to install, no batteries to charge, and no subscriptions — just plug in and record.

How RECAP S2 Works

1. Connect RECAP S2 to your phone’s 3.5mm headset jack. If your phone uses USB-C (most modern Android phones), use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC — see the adapter compatibility guide.
2. Plug your headset into the RECAP S2 headset port. You talk and listen through your headset normally.
3. Connect the RECAP S2 output to your recording device’s microphone input using the included cable.
4. Hit record on your recording device. Both sides of the call are captured in clear, full-quality audio.

Because RECAP works at the physical audio level, it doesn’t matter what Android version you’re running, what manufacturer made your phone, or what region you’re in. Google’s software restrictions don’t apply.

What You Should Know About RECAP S2

RECAP S2 is a dedicated hardware solution, and that comes with trade-offs worth understanding:

• Requires a wired headset — you need a headset with a 3.5mm TRRS plug (most standard earbuds with a built-in microphone work). Bluetooth headsets won’t work because the audio signal needs to pass through the physical adapter.
• Needs an adapter for modern phones — since most Android phones manufactured after 2019 lack a 3.5mm headphone jack, you’ll need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC. Not every adapter works — see our compatible adapters guide for tested options.
• Requires a separate recording device — RECAP S2 outputs the audio signal to a recorder. This can be a computer running recording software like Audacity or OBS, a digital voice recorder, a tablet, or even a second phone with a voice memo app. You need to bring your own recorder.

These requirements mean RECAP S2 is best suited for people who record calls regularly and can set up a consistent recording station — a desk with a computer, or a portable kit with a voice recorder. It’s not a casual “tap a button” solution, but it’s the most reliable way to record phone calls on Android when the built-in options don’t meet your needs.

Comparison: All Methods Side by Side

Important: USB-C Adapter Compatibility

Most modern Android phones (Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, all Pixels, recent OnePlus) don’t have a 3.5mm headphone jack. You’ll need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter — but not all adapters are the same.

There are two types: – Passive adapters (cheap, no electronics inside) — only work with phones that output analog audio through USB-C. This includes some OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, and Vivo phones. – Active adapters with a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) — required for Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and most other major brands that output digital audio through USB-C.

If you have a Samsung or Pixel phone, you need an active DAC adapter. A cheap passive adapter will not work. See our compatible adapters guide for tested options and where to buy.

What You Need

• RECAP S2 audio adapter ($99)
• A recording device: PC, Mac, digital voice recorder, tablet, or a second phone running any voice recording app
• A headset with a 3.5mm TRRS plug (most standard earbuds with a built-in microphone work)
• If your phone lacks a 3.5mm jack: a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with built-in DAC (see compatible adapters)

Compatible Android Phones

RECAP S2 works with every Android phone through the headset jack (or USB-C adapter):

• Samsung Galaxy: S25, S24, S23, S22, S21, S20 series, Z Fold and Z Flip series, A series, and older
• Google Pixel: Pixel 9, 8, 7, 6 series and older
• OnePlus, Xiaomi, Motorola, Sony, Realme, Oppo, Vivo, and all other Android phones

Since RECAP is hardware, it works identically on every Android version — past, present, and future.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Use built-in recording if: You have a supported Pixel or Samsung phone, your region supports it, and you don’t mind the other party being notified. Good for casual use.

Use Google Voice if: You only need to record incoming calls and are already using Google Voice as your phone number.

Use RECAP S2 if: You need reliable, clear recordings of both sides on any Android phone, without notification announcements, regardless of Android version or region. This is the choice for professionals — journalists, researchers, lawyers, business owners — who can’t afford unreliable recordings. Learn more about RECAP S2.

Avoid third-party apps unless you’re on an older Android version or willing to root your phone. The era of reliable app-based call recording on Android is over.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I record phone calls on Android without the other person knowing?

Built-in call recording on Pixel and Samsung phones always notifies the other party with an audible announcement that cannot be disabled. Third-party apps that bypass this are blocked on modern Android versions. RECAP S2 is a hardware solution that does not trigger any software-based notification — the other party is not alerted. Note: recording laws vary by state and country. In the US, federal law requires one-party consent (you can record if you’re a participant), but some states require all-party consent. Always check your local laws.

My phone doesn’t have a headphone jack. Can I use RECAP S2?

Yes. Use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter). Most modern phones — including all Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 6+, and recent OnePlus models — require an active DAC adapter, not a cheap passive one. Check our compatible adapters guide for tested options.

Does Google’s built-in call recording on Pixel phones work in the US?

Yes. Google rolled out native call recording to Pixel 6 and newer phones in the US, UK, and several other countries. However, it requires a recent Android version, plays a mandatory recording announcement to both parties, and must be activated manually on each call.

What about Samsung’s call recording?

Samsung added call recording in the US with a recent One UI update. The feature is available on Galaxy S25, S24, S23, Z Fold/Flip 5 and 6, and select A-series devices. Like Pixel, it plays a mandatory announcement. Samsung also generates AI-powered transcripts of recorded calls.

Will third-party call recording apps work on modern Android?

In most cases, no. Third-party apps like Cube ACR exist, but on recent Android versions they typically only record your own voice, not the other party’s. This is an OS-level restriction that can’t be fixed by the app developer. Apps that claim full recording usually require root access.

What’s the audio quality like with RECAP S2 compared to built-in recording?

Built-in recording (Pixel and Samsung) saves in M4A format at acceptable quality. RECAP S2 outputs a raw analog signal to your recording device, so quality depends on your recorder settings — but because it captures the audio signal directly rather than through software processing, it typically produces cleaner, more consistent recordings. You have full control over format, bitrate, and quality settings on your recording device.

Can I automatically record all calls with RECAP S2?

RECAP S2 is always passing audio through — it’s a passive hardware device with no on/off switch. Whether recording is automatic depends on your recording device. Many digital voice recorders have a voice-activated recording mode, and PC software like Audacity can be configured to start recording automatically. Built-in Pixel and Samsung recording, by contrast, requires you to manually tap Record on every call.

How is RECAP S2 different from putting the call on speaker and recording?

Speakerphone recording captures room audio — including echo, background noise, and uneven volume between you and the caller. RECAP S2 captures the electrical audio signal directly from the headset connection, producing clear audio of both sides at consistent volume with no room noise. It’s the difference between recording a concert from the audience versus plugging directly into the soundboard.

Need reliable call recording on any Android phone, with no announcements and no software restrictions?

Get RECAP S2 — $99 | No apps. No batteries. No subscriptions.

Works with every Android phone. Ships worldwide.

RECAP S2 sits between your phone and your recording device. Before you buy, make sure you have the right connections — this is the #1 source of setup issues.

How RECAP Connects

RECAP has three connection points. Each one needs to be right for recording to work:

1. CALL plug → goes into your phone’s headphone jack (or an adapter if your phone doesn’t have one)
2. HEADSET port → your wired headset plugs in here (you talk and listen through this)
3. OUTPUT plug → goes into your recording device (computer mic input, voice recorder, or mixer)

If any of these three connections has a problem, recording won’t work. Let’s check each one.

1. Your Phone Connection

RECAP’s CALL plug is a standard 3.5mm connector. If your phone has a headphone jack, plug it straight in — no adapter needed.

No headphone jack? You need an adapter. Here’s what works:

iPhone 15, 16, or newer (USB-C)

• Apple USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter — Apple Store | Amazon
• Has a built-in DAC and supports microphone passthrough. Works with RECAP.

iPhone 7 through iPhone 14 (Lightning)

• Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter — Amazon | Best Buy
• Apple no longer sells this directly, but it’s widely available from retailers.
• Use Apple’s adapter only. Third-party Lightning adapters often skip the microphone channel, which means RECAP can’t capture your voice.

Android phones (USB-C, no headphone jack)

• Best option: Apple USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (same one listed above) — has a built-in DAC, supports mic passthrough, and works on every Android phone we’ve tested.
• Also works: Samsung USB-C adapter (built-in DAC) or Google USB-C adapter (built-in DAC).

Why “with DAC” matters

There are two types of USB-C to 3.5mm adapters:

• Active (with DAC) — contains a small digital-to-analog converter chip. Works on all phones. Apple, Samsung, and Google adapters are all active.
• Passive (no DAC) — a bare wire remap with no electronics. Only works on phones that output analog audio over USB-C (some OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Vivo models). Will not work on Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, iPhones, most Motorola, or Sony phones.

How to tell: If the adapter costs under $5 and weighs almost nothing, it’s passive. Active adapters have a small inline housing for the chip. When in doubt, get the Apple USB-C adapter — it’s active and works universally.

2. Your Headset

RECAP requires a wired headset with a microphone. The headset plugs into RECAP’s HEADSET port — this is how you talk and listen during the call.

• Any standard wired headset with a 3.5mm plug and inline microphone works.
• The headset that came with your phone works (if it has a 3.5mm plug).
• Bluetooth headphones and AirPods do not work. RECAP captures audio from the physical cable — Bluetooth bypasses it entirely.

3. Your Recording Device

RECAP’s OUTPUT plug sends the call audio to whatever records it. This is where most compatibility issues happen with computers.

Recording to a computer

RECAP sends each voice to a separate stereo channel (yours on the left, theirs on the right). This requires a stereo microphone input. Most laptops made after 2015 only have mono inputs and can’t capture both channels.

Check your input before you buy: Run our Audio Device Scanner — it takes 10 seconds, runs in your browser, and tells you whether your input is stereo or mono. No data leaves your computer.

If your input is mono (or your computer has no mic input at all), you need:

• Andrea USB-MA External USB Microphone Adapter — Amazon | Andrea Communications
• Adds a stereo 3.5mm mic input via USB. No drivers needed on Windows or Mac.
• Also works: Plugable USB Audio Adapter — works with RECAP, but the default mic gain is very low. You’ll need to increase the input gain significantly in your OS audio settings or recording software.

For full setup instructions: Record phone calls on your computer

Recording to a voice recorder

Most digital voice recorders accept an external stereo microphone — check your recorder’s manual. RECAP’s output looks like a standard stereo mic signal. Make sure your recorder is set to stereo recording mode (not mono).

For recommended models and settings: Record phone calls with a voice recorder

What Won’t Work

Quick Reference

Test Before Your First Important Call

1. Connect everything: Phone → adapter (if needed) → RECAP → headset + recording device
2. Call a friend or your voicemail
3. Verify you can hear the caller through your headset
4. Verify the caller can hear you
5. Check your recording — both voices should be captured

Only hear one side? Your adapter may not support microphone passthrough (common with third-party Lightning adapters and cheap USB-C adapters). Switch to one of the recommended adapters above.

Recording to a computer and only getting one channel? Your mic input is probably mono. Run the Audio Device Scanner to confirm, and get the Andrea USB-MA adapter.

For more setup help and troubleshooting, visit our support page.

Get RECAP S2 — no apps, no batteries, no subscriptions.

If you need to automatically record phone calls — every one, not just the ones you remember to tap “Record” on — your options are more limited than you think. This guide covers every method for automatic call recording on Android, iPhone, and landline.

The Problem: Manual Recording Misses Calls

Both Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy now offer built-in call recording, and Apple has added it to the iPhone. But all three share the same limitation: you have to manually tap “Record” on every single call.

That means: – You forget to record an important call, and it’s gone forever – You can’t record calls you don’t expect to be important (they often are) – If you’re recording for compliance, legal, or business reasons, manual recording creates gaps

For anyone who needs consistent, automatic recording of every call, manual tap-to-record is not a real solution.

Option 1: Android Apps with Auto-Record (Limited)

Some third-party Android apps claim to offer automatic call recording:

Cube ACR is available on the Google Play Store and has an auto-record setting that triggers recording when a call starts. However: – On current Android versions, it typically only records your side of the conversation due to OS-level restrictions Google has tightened with every recent Android version – Functionality varies significantly by phone manufacturer and Android version – Google can break it with any system update – Audio quality is inconsistent — some devices produce garbled or one-sided recordings

Samsung and Xiaomi phones in certain regions have auto-record settings in their native dialer apps. But: – Region-locked — not available in the US, UK, or EU – Still plays a notification announcement to the other party – Only works on the manufacturer’s built-in phone app

Bottom line: There is no reliable way to auto-record both sides of every call using software alone on a modern Android phone.

Option 2: Google Voice (Incoming Calls Only)

Google Voice can record incoming calls — press 4 during the call. But: – Outgoing calls cannot be recorded – You still have to press 4 manually each time – There is no true auto-record feature – Both parties hear a notification announcement

Google Voice is not a solution for automatic recording.

Option 3: iPhone — No Auto-Record Option

Apple’s iPhone call recording must be activated manually on each call. There is no auto-record setting, no Shortcut automation for it, and no third-party app can do it either. iOS has never allowed background call recording by apps, and there is no indication this will change.

Option 4: Hardware Adapter + Voice-Activated Recorder

This is the only method that reliably auto-records every call on any phone — Android, iPhone, or landline — with no apps, no batteries, and no subscriptions.

How It Works

RECAP S2 is a hardware audio adapter that sits between your phone and a wired headset. It passes the full audio from both sides of the call to a recording device. Pair it with a voice-activated recorder (VAR), and you get true automatic recording:

1. RECAP S2 connects to your phone (via 3.5mm jack or USB-C/Lightning adapter)
2. Your wired headset plugs into RECAP S2 — you talk and listen normally
3. RECAP S2’s output goes to a digital voice recorder set to voice activation mode
4. When a call starts, the recorder detects audio and starts recording automatically
5. When the call ends, the recorder stops automatically after a few seconds of silence

No buttons to press. No apps to open. Every call recorded, both sides, clear audio.

What You Should Know About This Setup

RECAP S2 is a passive audio adapter, not a standalone recording device. To use it, you need:

• A wired headset — Bluetooth headsets will not work. The audio passes through the physical cable.
• A phone with a 3.5mm headphone jack, or a USB-C/Lightning to 3.5mm adapter for phones that lack one. Not all adapters work — see our adapter compatibility guide for tested options.
• A separate recording device — either a digital voice recorder or a computer with recording software.

These requirements are the trade-off for getting reliable, OS-independent, two-sided recording that no software solution can match.

Best Voice-Activated Recorders for This Setup

Any digital voice recorder with a “VOR” (Voice Operated Recording) or “voice activation” feature works. Here are proven options:

• Sony ICD-UX570 — Compact, excellent audio quality, voice activation mode, USB charging, (check current pricing as it varies by retailer)
• Olympus WS-882 — Reliable voice activation (VOR), stereo recording, USB direct connection, simple operation
• Zoom H1n — Higher-end audio quality, great for professional recording and transcription
• Any recorder with a 3.5mm mic/line input and voice activation mode

For a deeper look at recorder options and setup tips, see our guide on recording phone calls with a digital voice recorder.

Using a PC as Your Recorder

If you work at a desk, you can use your computer instead of a dedicated recorder:

1. Connect RECAP S2’s output to your PC’s microphone input (or use a USB audio adapter if your PC only has USB-C — see our adapter guide for recommendations)
2. Use recording software with auto-start:
   • Audacity (free) — Use the “Sound Activated Recording” feature under Transport menu. Set the activation threshold just above your room’s background noise level.
   • OBS Studio (free) — Can be scripted to start/stop recording based on audio input levels
   • Windows Voice Recorder / Mac Voice Memos — Simple but lack auto-start; you’d need to press record manually

See our guide on recording phone calls to your computer for detailed PC setup instructions, and our comparison of the best recording software for PC for help choosing the right tool.

Why Hardware Auto-Recording Works When Software Doesn’t

Setting Up Auto-Recording: Step by Step

What You Need

• RECAP S2 audio adapter ($99 — one-time purchase, no subscription)
• A wired headset with 3.5mm TRRS plug
• A voice-activated recorder (digital voice recorder with VOR mode, or a PC with Audacity)
• If your phone lacks a 3.5mm jack: a USB-C or Lightning to 3.5mm adapter — see our adapter compatibility guide

Configuration

1. Connect everything: Phone -> adapter (if needed) -> RECAP S2 -> headset + recording device
2. Enable voice activation on your recorder:
   • Digital voice recorder: Look for VOR/VAR mode in settings. Set sensitivity to medium or high.
   • Audacity: Transport > Sound Activated Recording. Set threshold to -26dB to -30dB (adjust based on your environment).
3. Test with a short call. Call a friend, verify both sides are captured, and adjust the voice activation sensitivity if it’s cutting off the beginning of speech.
4. Leave it connected. From now on, every call you make or receive through your headset is automatically recorded.

Tips for Best Results

• Keep the recorder plugged in or charged. A dead recorder means missed recordings.
• Use a high-capacity SD card if recording all day. At 128kbps, a 32GB card holds ~500 hours of recordings.
• Label recordings by date/time. Most digital recorders do this automatically. Audacity can be configured with auto-naming.
• Check local recording laws. In the US, federal law allows one-party consent, but some states require all-party consent. Check your local laws before recording.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I auto-record calls on my iPhone without hardware?

No. iOS does not allow any app to automatically record phone calls. Apple’s built-in recording requires manual activation on each call. There is no Shortcut or automation that can trigger call recording. RECAP S2 paired with a voice-activated recorder is the only way to auto-record on iPhone.

Can I auto-record calls on Android without hardware?

In limited cases. Some Android phones (Samsung, Xiaomi) in certain regions offer auto-record in the native dialer, but it’s region-locked and notifies the other party. Third-party apps like Cube ACR have auto-record settings but typically only capture your side on current Android versions. For reliable, two-sided auto-recording on any Android phone, a hardware solution is the only dependable option.

What’s the audio quality like with a voice-activated recorder?

Excellent. RECAP S2 delivers a clean analog signal directly from the call audio. With a quality digital recorder (Sony ICD-UX570, Olympus WS-882, Zoom H1n), you’ll get professional-quality recordings that are clear enough for transcription, legal proceedings, or broadcast.

How much storage do I need?

Phone call audio at standard quality (128kbps MP3) uses about 1MB per minute, or 60MB per hour. A 32GB card holds roughly 500 hours. If you’re on calls 4 hours a day, that’s about 4 months of recordings before you need to clear space.

Does the other party know they’re being recorded?

RECAP S2 does not trigger any software notification or announcement. Whether you should inform the other party depends on your local laws.

Can I use RECAP S2 with a Bluetooth headset?

No. RECAP S2 requires a wired headset because it captures audio from the physical cable connection. Bluetooth headsets send audio wirelessly and bypass the adapter entirely.

Do I need a computer, or can I use just a portable recorder?

Either works. A portable digital voice recorder with voice activation (VOR mode) gives you a fully mobile setup — no computer required. If you work at a desk, a computer with recording software like Audacity gives you more storage and editing options.

Is it legal to record phone calls automatically?

Recording laws vary by jurisdiction. In the US, federal law requires one-party consent (you can record your own calls), but some states require all-party consent. Check your local laws before you begin.

Never miss recording an important call again.

Get RECAP S2 — $99 | No apps, no batteries, no subscriptions. Pair with any voice-activated recorder for hands-free, automatic call recording on any phone.