Donald Sterling's audio: a hoax and libel?
Channel: UCBerkeleyStudent8
Date: 2014-04-30

Using Audacity, I investigated the alleged recording of Donald Sterling to see if there were editing artifacts. You can follow along, using any recent computer, free software, and basic knowledge of sound and sine waves.

My credentials: I am a senior undergraduate student at UC Berkeley, majoring in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Relevant previous projects include a sonar system, and an automatic lie detector based on language analysis, both done under the auspices of UCB professors. I have work experience as an Industrial Controls Engineer and as a Web Applications Developer.

Not only did I find evidence of editing, but I also found sophisticated use of subliminal cues to sensationalize the story.

In summary, I am absolutely certain that the audio from TMZ.com is NOT the raw recording. I am also absolutely certain that the audio was intentionally altered. I am 95% certain that this "recording" is actually many recordings cut and pasted together with advanced techniques. And so, I am 95% certain that this audio is a hoax and is libel.

UPDATE: I later analyzed the higher-quality audio from http://deadspin.com/exclusive-the-extended-donald-sterling-tape-1568291249. That audio seems pristine and authentic. So, I was right that TMZ posted edited audio (my "absolutely certain"). I was wrong that the conversation was a patchwork (my "95% certain"). See below in the comments for details. END UPDATE

I only learned about Sterling three days before filming this, but I had a suspicion reading the story that this was too much. I hate racism, but doctoring recordings to libel someone who never committed or encouraged violent crime is going too far. I personally hope this is a huge exaggeration. Whatever path they may lead us, may peace and truth prevail!

I'd like to know what other experts think of my analysis, whether they agree or disagree. I am always learning!