C. Contact the interviewee - jot notes on his background and his experiences. Explain the purpose, length of sessions, where the tapes would be kept and used for and if he would receive a copy. Make a list of key words and topics to discuss. Do not word questions, its sounds canned then. E. Know equipment beforehand - reel to reel recorders are more reliable, have better fidelity.
Cassettes are more portable, easier to operate, less reliable.
Your recorder must provide good recording quality with microphone 5' from talkers. Use good quality tape. F. Plan a formal introduction to the tape - include name of interviewer and interviewee, date, place, brief biographical background of guest and purpose of the interview. G. Set up equipment - discourage third parties. Eliminate outside noises by closing windows and doors, avoiding fans and heaters, clocks and kids.