After preserving your original audio file and making an lossless WAV backup copy for editing and archiving, listen to the audio recording carefully before making changes or applying any effects. Think about what it sounds like.

The goal is to identify what is working and what needs to be corrected. Listen for problems such as:

• Is there a lot of hiss?
• Is it full of static?
• Are there low-frequency rumbles or vibrations?
• Is it quiet?
• Is it loud?
• Are there unwanted echoes or room sounds?
• Are there people talking in the background?
• What about long bangs or other unwanted noises?
• Is there a spot where the wind picks up?
• Does the recording pickup where you are handling the phone?
• Are some parts much louder or quieter than others?

Listen to the audio multiple times at multiple volume levels, ideally wth headphones. Never listen at loud volume to protect your hearing

Write down a list of problems with the audio. Try to be as descriptive and specific as possible. This will be your sound editing roadmap for cleaning up and leveling the audio file.