What must digital recording software provide to ensure proper audio capture?

Digital recording software must provide a visual indicator of audio energy to ensure proper audio capture because this feature allows users to monitor the levels of sound being recorded in real-time. By displaying audio energy visually, such as through VU meters or waveform displays, users can quickly assess whether the audio signals are within optimal levels—avoiding issues like clipping due to overload or picking up too low of a signal that may lead to poor audio quality.

This kind of feedback is crucial during recording sessions, as it helps audio engineers and recordists make immediate adjustments to microphone placement, input levels, and other factors in order to secure the best sound quality. An effective visual indication enables proactive management of the recording process, ensuring clarity and fidelity of the captured audio. Other features that might seem useful, such as a single audio channel output or a void for audio feedback, do not directly contribute to the monitoring necessary for quality audio capture. Similarly, having only a playback function limits the capability of the software, as it wouldn't facilitate necessary adjustments during the actual recording process.