How To: EVP'S
This is a truly basic how to when it comes to collecting your EVP's. Think of it as the Ghost Quest version of the Dummy's Guide.
What Are EVP'S?
EVP or Electronic Voice Phenomena is when voices of people who are not there, it can also be bumps, and other sounds that appear upon a recording. Ghost Quest is an all female group, this actually presents a fascinating opportunity for us as we often catch male voices. Ghost Quest holds the position that EVP is most likely what will prove that we are not alone. This type of communication is covered under the term ITC which means Instrumental Transcommunication. ITC sessions are most common among paranormal groups with an ITC session you would ask the spirit to interact with you through the use of a tool, say an audio recorder, television, radio, or some such.Rules of Conduct For EVP Collection
- Try not to hold the recorder (the reason for this is because if you are holding it or walking around it with it, it may pick up the rub of your clothing, breathing or sounds of walking which can be misconstrued for an evp)
- Always talk in a strong voice, do not whisper. If you do whisper or make a noise, simply say "That was me." that way whoever goes over the tape later does not think it is an EVP
- Do not challenge spirits. This is like conducting an interview, be patient
- Have no expectations
- Be sure you are completely aware of your surroundings, dogs barking, conversation in another room. In Ghost Quest we always carry a pen and pad with us just for these purposes, it has helped us many times by writing down what we are seeing and hearing to distinguish between non-evp and the good ones.
- Do not be afraid to experiment! There are a ton of new things coming out everyday that claim they can speak to spirits. Such as the Ovilisk which is believed to form words and basically be a direct communication device. Ghost Quest has never used this tool. Or something such as the Franks Box you can make your own with a digital am/fm radio. Get instructions at UFOGeek.com
- Most of all HAVE FUN! and don't listen to the tape late at night when you are home by yourself and scare easily just in case.
The Best Recorders
A lot of people ask what the best recorders out there are. Well if you go under our Tools and Tech page you can see the ones we use most frequently and get some free software for EVP and audio recording and cutting. Our favorite brands are Sony, and RCA. We prefer to use tape as much as possible, yes it can get costly but if you are looking to get into paranormal investigation professionally it is the best way to gather your evidence as you can prove you never messed with it. Digital is great because it is easy to cut and upload, however, it is also very very easy to manipulate. If you are just doing EVP for yourself, then go for it!