I cannot believe I missed this. When I saw the Moon screensaver I thought it was the Sunday offering...per GAOTD tradition....I usually check in the early morning hours which may be the end of the day's offering or the beginning of the next one so I must have lost a day somewhere.

I am enjoying the comments from those who actually tried it...one sided recordings seemed pointless but the two files of each side that can be merged downright alluring.

Congrats to those of you who keep better time, got it, and can use it. I guess I need a timer that yells "Check GAOTD!" at me everyday. And broadcasts it throughout the house!

I installed SkyCap but was not able to enter the File => Setup sound menu to configure SkyCap sound. I was also unable to setup Skype to work with SkyCap. I use the Logitech Wireless Skype phone and that may be part of the problem. I like the concept of the program, but it seems to conflict with some of my other software that also uses lame. It would be nice if help were local rather than a link to the website. I do not think that this program is worth the asking price given the roughness of the interface - it is cumbersom - and the conflicts encountered during setup. I admit that I have not had the time to test the program in depth. Thanks,GooVid and GAOTD!

Leaves a terrible mess of orphaned files and registry settings when uninstalled (GeoVid tend to do this)

Developers should work on their uninstall routines in conjunction with the intall routines.

I honestly warn you to stay away from this one.

As always Thanks to GAOTD for letting us try these out - I for one like playing around with these offerings.

I installed SkypeCap and made minimal changes to the default configuration. Actually, all I did was to change the Output Folder and click Auto Record.

After a recording, SkypeCap gave me the option to have the file played back. When doing so, it only played back the other party. When I opened the Output Folder, two files had been created. Opening both files to play simultaneously in Audacity (or whatever audio editor you use) plays back the conversation as it occurred.

I suppose there must be some way to configure SkypeCap to only create one mixed output file, but I like it this way because it will allow clean editing of phone interviews.

One thing I don't understand - the Audio Settings show that GeoVid MP3 Encoder is the Codec yet the output files are WAV not MP3. Not a major issue for me but WAVs are a lot bigger. The generated files I got were about 3MB (combined) for approximately 30 seconds.

I use Skype and use the recording built into there software. Why add a recorder when the Skype software already has it?

I have tried it on two machines: it works only on the PC where I have a USB headset/mic. It does not work on the PC with the Skype "desk telephone" set and SkypeMate. On that machine it records only my end of the conversation. Worse than useless, it wasted my time. Als, the software has no real config options so it's not possible to troubleshoot.

Running Vista Athalon 64 bit x2. Software won't install properly. Something isn't working here at all. have uninstalled.

Regarding recording legality: Canada
In Canada, one of the parties in an electronic conversation being recorded must be aware that the conversation is being recorded. Logically, that would be you, the person recording it, so you are not legally obliged to tell anyone else.

Or... you can go totally free with S.A.M. (Skype Answering Machine) and get an answering machine for skype as well as a call/conversation recorder. You don't have to have SkypOut to use the answering machine, anyone trying to initiate a chat with you via skype can leave a message and you can choose how long to wait for it to start and make your own greetings. You can also preview messages as they are being left:

http://www.softpedia.com/get/Office-tools/Fax-Telephony/SAM-Skype-Answering-Machine.shtml

This application is clumsy and it's poorly design. I couldn't get it to record my voice, but it recorded the voice on the other end okay.

I visited the maker's website and it's the worse website ever. I couldn't find any faq or help with my problem.

I tried the freecorder recommended by Eddie. Thanks Eddie! That works a lot better and better implemented.

GiveawayOfTheDay failed badly on this one.

I do use Skype, daily.... Thanks GOTD

#61
"Could someone please tell me if I need a Landline to use SKYPE, as I have cable broadband with NTL thru the TV cable???
I’ve wanted SKYPE for ages but this has stopped me from tryin it

Comment by Ste — January 13th, 2008 at 12:19 pm"

No, a "landline" is not necessary to use Skype. Only need to have access to the internet. Though I use a DSL modem to connect, I have several friends that use their cable broadband to use Skype.

One additional thought about GOTD. I'm a BitTorrent user as well. The difference between GOTD and BitTorrent, in the broadest sense, is that you have to know what exactly what you want for BitTorrent. GOTD exposes me to software that I'm not aware of and gives me a taste. I just uninstall what doesn't fit my needs. Again, great job GOTD!

I use Skype all the time,this will be a great addition.Will download this one and try tonight and will direct my SKYPE contacts to the site to DL as well. If any problems are found, such as # 43 and # 69 I will say in the forum.
To # 61 you should be fine on cable, that’s when it works the best. You do not need a landline, however Skype even works on 56K dial-up if this is the only choice for some, one of my contacts is set up that way.
To # 51, I just checked Skype and there are over 10,000,000 online now. Your comment about a narrow audience is ridiculous; the only thing that’s narrow is your opinion.
Thanks GAOTD your efforts are appreciated...

Allow me to set the record straight regarding the legality of taping phone...

On a legal standpoint for those living in the USA...

More information on taping can be found at http://www.rcfp.org/taping
Or Google the phrase, “Telephone Recording Laws in (Add City, State, and or Country looking at)

Msg From BuBBy: Please comment only on the software here.

re: SkypeCap, it’s a quick install, works as advertised (auto record) and fits my needs perfectly. Thanks, GOTD! Keep up the great work.

Pardon me Bubby,

I 'overlook' the name, the chewing gum 'explanation' is for #19 JW and not you. :P

Hi to all,

Skype is a great tool that can use to communicate with family and friends all over the world. Is free and though sometimes the 'lines' can be rather wacky but still is a wonderful tool that all pc user shouldn't miss (compare with MSN is so much better).

For Bubby,
For your info, "No" chewing gum is allow at all in Singapore now. You can be fine even just having it if the police see. Not when you spit on public place or so. No offense as I don't wish anyone who may go Singapore get 'mislead'. Thanks GOTD and today's vendor for great giveaway. Have a great weekend everyone. :)

Msg From BuBBy: Thanks. The point of my comment was different places have different laws. I never meant to offend any Singapore Travel Agents ;)

Seems easy to use to me. Click the button and record. It records. Good giveaway!

1.Can't access the "sound settings" entry in the "File" menu
2.It outputs two wav files , one for each channel. How am I supposed to listen to a recorded conversation ? What if I want a compressed output file ? Total recorder is much more flexible.
3.There is absolutely no "HELP" - only a "tutorial".

So far... useless unless some good soul will tell me what I am doing wrong.

I would have found this application extremely useful in conducting Skype interviews for my author-interview website. However .. I am unable to configure it to record both sides of a conversation. I can record my voice, OR the other voice (and I don't even know how I did THAT) but not both at the same time.

And there appears to be no way to record each side of the conversation in its own channel, even though the Audio Settings options include stereo or dual-channel in addition to mono. All my recordings come out in mono.

But .. I really appreciate GAOTD, usually finding the offerings VERY useful and welcome!

So...much...SPAM!

For example:

"Well, if I *HAD* Skype, this might be useful….but alas, I do not. Thanks anyway GAOTD team."


"Although I haven’t started using it yet, this is a great program for those who use Skype like myself. There are so many Skype users out there!"

"Lovely! I can use this. Thanks GAOTD"

Okay, you use Skype. BIG DEAL. The only people who would have any reason to download this program at all would be Skype users. Except for, well, this person:

"i dont know about this one. i never use skype yet. i will download anyway. thanks gaotd from dea cambodia."

That's the strangest thing that I've read all day.

Nobody is actually commenting on the software - it's all either "I don't have Skype so this is stupid!", or "Use Skype, it's free!", or "Yes! I have Skype so I'm downloading!"

This is just inane. If there are moderators, they're hardly doing their job by letting this junk through.

Being one of the 9 million people that use and love Skype, I want to thank GOTD for this great auxiliary software. It works well and even though I won't use it every time, it's great to know that I've got it. I found it a little confusing at first but with a little practice, it'll be a great addition.

I use Skype every day to hold consultations. I also call friends all over the world for free using Skpe.

For myself and my business, this is a WONDERFUL tool!

Thanks GOTD for something that I will find very useful.

Lovely! I can use this. Thanks GAOTD

As a Skype user, many thanks

Could someone please tell me if I need a Landline to use SKYPE, as I have cable broadband with NTL thru the TV cable???
I've wanted SKYPE for ages but this has stopped me from tryin it

hey... when i try to boot it, it tells me i have to register... but it says giveawayoftheday as im registerd.. but it tells me i have to log on... help?

@ No. 39 / peterq Thank You Peter. A friend of mine has Skype and has been telling me to get it but I thought it was not compatible. I will download it and give it a try... and thanks again GAOTD. I really do appreciate your efforts!

The program tells me that my audio and video are not ready. The help file provides no trouble shooting help. The documentaion is
inadequate if things don't work.

Great software, perfect for podcasters.
Exactly what I want.
Thanks GAOTD.

Hi again,

Of course Peterg is absolutely correct.

What IS illegal is acting upon the recording in any way that would make it obvious that you have recorded the conversation. As a reminder of the conversation, it's OK and you wouldn't have to tell them but you would need to have a recording of you telling the other party that you are, in fact, recording, before you could use the recording in a court of law. Hope that's clear.:)

Just to clarify one other point, OWNING this program or MAKING. or, of course, OFFERING this program is not illegal in the slightest.

September 2005 had 54 million registered users. This is truly impressive. My Skype currently shows 3,633,607 users online.

Of course it can be useful to record. Let's say some people discuss specifications or ideas on a new game, club or gadget. Would be easy to post recording as supplement to summary/documentation.

I think this program is gong to motivate me to try skype. There must something to all that buzz. This program is free and skype too, so what's to lose by giving them a shot. Thanks GOT !

As far as whether it is legal to record a call?... well just ask yourself..."what would our Pres do?" There you will find your answer :-)

Thanks GAOTD! I use Skype but not as much as others. Some people run their home business with it and attend meetings, webinars and the like. Skype has a good way to make money helping people with advice. This program would assist with that I'm sure. Here's to hope that GAOTD stays with us in '08. Thanks for your efforts guys!!! (and gals) ;)

I use Skype (along with over 10,000,000 other simultaneous users online at once!) and find recordings of it extremely useful. I use recordings for podcasts, interviews, and publicity.

This installed easily. It has a LOT of options, but not much guidance as to their meanings. I had some Skype audio quality issues when trying to use it or even with it just running, but not recording. These were reduced after a reboot. They may have been related to network traffic, rather than the sofware. Time will tell.

One very nice feature is the ability to start and stop the recording manually. A feature claimed by Skype Recorder (previous offering), but not actually available.

Works great. Does exactly what it says it will do. I missed the download last time. Glad I didnt miss it this time. I cant believe the people commenting on here that doesnt have Skype! I thought that most computer usere used it at least sometimes.

I was very dissapointed that yesterday was a screensaver. I hate screensavers. They are useless!! Was worried that there might be another one today. None of us wants screensavers! Skype on the ohter hand is great. We all love it! Those that dont use Skype ought to. It is great. And now we can capture it to view other times, or give it to others to look at. Thanks GAOTD!!!

wow, I can't get over the whining here sometimes. If you can't use a program, what a shame it was offered to those who can. I visit every day and maybe once every three or four weeks there's a program I can use. Hey! what a radical concept! Visit, and if there's no program foryou that day, quietly leave and come back the next day.

Sheesh.

As for this program, I do have skype and I will download it. Yes, it is illegal to tape without telling the other person but that is a *very* easily solved issue. ASK. They're not telling you to tape illegally.

I'm a writer, I interview many people for articles. Rather than using my voice recorder, I can now use this, AFTER telling the subject that I'm recording it.

Some people have way too much time on their hands and just like to whine.

If you're not using Skype, why bother posting a reply? Unlike some others, I happen to know at least 10 people who use Skype. It's great for international calling to family/friends (especially with the SkypeOut function, which can be used for dialing land-lines), and people do hold conferences/brainstorming sessions on there, which is a potential area for SkypeCap. I remember when I first started using Skype, there was a huge demand for this kind of software. Thanks to GotD for providing this really useful download!

PS There is no uninstall icon in the start/programs/SkypeCap group that is created although it can be (sort of) uninstalled from control panel/add remove programs. However the uninstall program failed to uninstall completely saying it couldn't remove all features. This turned out to be one of the redistributable files being left behind in c:\program files\skypecap. Deleting this directory cleaned up the computer.

Wow! Just what I needed! I don't know why a lot more people don't use Skype. I have made great friends in other countries and we can talk free over the internet. I couldn't afford that! Last week I attended a couple of Skype conference calls. So wish I could have recorded it, now I can! Thank you BIG time!

I had to comment as most of the comments above are from people who have not actually used the software.
I just tried this as I actually use skype so this program *could* be useful for me. However this software only recorded the sound that I made - it didn't record the other person's conversation at all so unless you like to hear your own voice I wouldn't bother with this software.
If the software had recorded both sides of the conversation then it would have been useful for people such as podcasters or workers who use skype to have conversations with their colleagues or conduct meetings as there would be a nice record of the meeting.
UI is not very useful either - buttons are confusing and not labelled well.

As a writer who sometimes conducts interviews via Skyppe, this program may be particularly useful. Currently, I use Audacity, but having a recorder dedicated to Skyppe seems to be helpful. THANKS for the software. I'll also send out an immediate notice to writers who follow my productivity blog.

Probably great software if you use Skype. Thank you anyway! I know every software offering will not something for me, but you can never beat the price.
As far as the legality of recording phone calls (in the USA), a handy chart can be found at: http://www.rcfp.org/taping/

Cannot understand some people,Skype is free to download and saves me heaps on telephone calls,would not be without it,can even set up webcam with it,it really is the greatest and does work with VISTA.Thanks heaps.

@ No. 9 / niteraven = I have Vista (both 32 bit and 64 bit) and Skype works perfectly for me :)

An excellent download and very usefull.

Also, it is not illegal to record telephone conversations in the UK - this is a very common misconception.

"The relevant law, RIPA, does not prohibit individuals from recording their own communications provided that the recording is for their own use. Recording or monitoring are only prohibited where some of the contents of the communication - which can be a phone conversation or an e-mail - are made available to a third party, i.e. someone who was neither the caller or sender nor the intended recipient of the original communication.

According to Oftel, you do not have to let people know that you intend to record their telephone conversations, provided you are not intending to make the contents of the communication available to a third party. If you are you will need the consent of the person you are recording."

http://www.callcorder.com/phone-recording-law-uk.htm from this link.

I use Skype daily and find it very easy to use. I live in the US and have a daughter who just had a baby in Brazil. Now I can record all of our video conferences and let my wife watch them when she has time. Thanks much.

Thank you so much for this. I use Skype and Vista Ultimate on my laptop and Skype and XP Pro on my main PC. Will be very useful lol My partner is always asking me to do stuff and giving me instructions on how so this will be great. TY GAOTD
Jan UK/USA

Have no key problems here. Help - About looks fine to me.

Have not got around to try it yet, but it looks like a nice tool to have available when needed.

My Anti-Spyware program came up with red flags during installation and removed something that was installed. As the anti-spyware program do not log these auto-clean-ups I don't know what that was about.

rizla01 is correct - there are lots of places where using this software would be against the law, at least without telling the person on the other end that you're recording. It's probably a very good idea to check your local laws before you use this software to make any recordings.

Usually, the law only covers making recordings without the other person's consent, so you might also want to make sure you tell them you're recording right at the start. That way you have proof that they were informed in case any questions arise.

Might be a handy program, doesn't look to fancy, but it does what it is made for, so that's ok. Before recording conversations however, check the laws in your country about doing so.

@Bubby: Using Skype is certainly legal where I live
I don't think W.D. Tinson was referring to the use of Skype, but to the recording of conversations.
In my country for example it is illegal to record a converation unless the other party/parties have been asked and have agreed to the recording.
As the description states: 'Only you will know that the audio or video sessions are being recorded.' it could cost you a lawsuit if you do, depending on the laws in your country...

Msg From BuBBy:I didn't think W.D. Tinson was referring to that either, but I answered it anyway. :)