How to use the command pw-record (with examples)

The pw-record command is used to record audio files through pipewire. It is a shorthand for pw-cat --record command. This command allows users to easily record audio using the default target or customize the recording by adjusting the volume level or sample rate.

Use case 1: Record a sample recording using the default target

Code:

pw-record path/to/file.wav

Motivation: Recording a sample recording using the default target is useful when you simply want to capture audio without any specific adjustments. It is the quickest and easiest way to record audio using pw-record.

Explanation:

• path/to/file.wav: This is the path to the desired location and name of the audio file to be recorded. The extension “.wav” specifies the audio file format.

Example output: The command will record audio using the default settings and save it as “file.wav” in the specified path.

Use case 2: Record a sample recording at a different volume level

Code:

pw-record --volume=0.1 path/to/file.wav

Motivation: Recording audio at a different volume level allows for adjusting the loudness or softness of the recording. This can be helpful when the default volume level is too loud or too quiet for your specific recording needs.

Explanation:

• --volume=0.1: This argument specifies the desired volume level for the recording. The value “0.1” represents a lower volume level. Acceptable values range from 0.0 (silence) to 1.0 (maximum volume level).

Example output: The command will record audio using a volume level of 0.1 and save it as “file.wav” in the specified path.

Use case 3: Record a sample recording using a different sample rate

Code:

pw-record --rate=6000 path/to/file.wav

Motivation: Recording audio using a different sample rate alters the number of samples taken per second. This can affect the audio quality and file size. Adjusting the sample rate provides flexibility in controlling the fidelity and storage requirements of the recording.

Explanation:

• --rate=6000: This argument specifies the desired sample rate for the recording. The value “6000” represents a sample rate of 6000 samples per second. Higher sample rates generally result in higher audio quality but also larger file sizes.

Example output: The command will record audio using a sample rate of 6000 samples per second and save it as “file.wav” in the specified path.

Conclusion:

The pw-record command is a powerful tool for recording audio files through pipewire. By utilizing the provided use cases, users can conveniently customize their recording experience according to their specific needs, whether it involves adjusting the volume level or sample rate.