The bar graphs displayed on the right side of the Record dialog show the instantaneous peak levels of the input signal (expressed in logarithmic units called decibels). While the volume meters are running (they can be activated by pressing the PAUSE
button prior to recording), you can adjust the record level of the audio card either directly (manually) or using the appropriate Windows tools supplied by the manufacturer.
If you enable the record level peak hold function by checking the Peak hold in ‘Record’ checkbox in the Preferences dialog, available from the Options menu, the indicators corresponding to the highest level observed during a recording session will burn continuously (they can be reseted by clicking anywhere on the bar graphs).
The red indicators placed at the top of each bar graph, light up each time the input signal is clipped. Clipping occurs when the input level is too high. Since clipping results in audible signal distortions it should be avoided. Setting record levels too low is also disadvantageous, as it tends to decrease the signal-to-noise ratio.
For your convenience the clipping lock function is provided - to enable it check the Clipping lock in ‘Record’ box in the Preferences dialog available from the Options menu. The clipping lock allows you to check whether any clipping problems occurred during recording (which is useful if you can’t watch the bar graphs all the time during recording). To reset a clipping, lock click on the corresponding indicator.