How to Back Up Your Recordings
Updated October 2026
A recording you cannot find or open is lost. Keep two copies in two places, check that the backup opens, and back up the masters first.
The short version
- Keep at least two copies, in two different places.
- Back up the masters before the exports.
- Check that a backup opens, from time to time.
- Label the backups with the date, so you know which is latest.
Two copies, two places
One copy on your computer and one somewhere else, such as an external drive or a cloud folder. Two places protect against a broken drive and a lost laptop.
Masters first
Back up the original recordings and the masters before the exports. You can make exports again from a master, but not the other way round.
Check the backup
Open a file from the backup every few months. A backup that does not open is not a backup.
Keep it tidy
Use the folder system from the naming guide, so the backup is easy to find.
Keep the masters safe
Keep your Tunedzy masters and exports in a folder you back up, and check one backup opens.
Free tools for this
Frequently asked questions
How often should I back up?
After each session or episode, and check the backup now and then.
Is a cloud folder enough?
Two places is safer: a cloud folder and a drive you control.
What if I lose a file?
Restore from the backup. If there is no backup, the file is gone.
Keep going
How to Name and Organise Audio FilesHow to Choose WAV, MP3 or FLAC
How to Check Audio Quality Before You PublishAll guides and comparisons · Tunedzy Go on your phone · Pricing