Podcast FAQ

podcast mic set up

by Cecelia Morissette DDS Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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How To Set Up Multiple Microphones For a Podcast | Movo Photo.

  • Record With XLR Mics Instead. Many solo podcasters like the simplicity of USB podcast microphones, but using 2 or more in the same setup isn’t always ...
  • Give Everyone a Microphone for Podcasting. If you really want your podcast to sound nice and have more control over the sound quality, it’s best that ...
  • Invest In A Good Multi-Channel Mixer. While your smartphone or laptop can capture fairly decent sound by themselves, these devices are better suited ...
  • Use A Digital Recorder. While a mixer can dramatically improve sound quality when using your computer to record, it’s better to use a digital recorder ...

With a 2 or more person podcast, you'll each need an XLR microphone – and studio headphones are highly recommended. Because you can't easily record more than 1 USB microphone into one computer, you'll need a USB audio interface or mixer with at least as many XLR microphone inputs as you have hosts.Aug 25, 2021

Full Answer

What is the best microphone for a podcast?

Top 9 Best Microphones for Podcasting

  • Shure SM7B – Our Choice
  • PR-40 by Heil – Best large-diaphragm dynamic
  • Blue Ember – Cardioid XLR condenser mic
  • Rode Procaster – Internal pop filter
  • Audio-Technica AT2035 – Wide dynamic range
  • Blue Yeti – Four recording modes
  • Samson Go – Portable & cheap
  • HyperX Quadcast – Full-featured condenser mic
  • Razer Seiren Elite – High pass filter

Do you need two microphones for a podcast?

With a 2 or more person podcast, you’ll each need an XLR microphone – and studio headphones are highly recommended. Because you can’t easily record more than 1 USB microphone into one computer, you’ll need a USB audio interface or mixer with at least as many XLR microphone inputs as you have hosts.

What is the best podcast mic?

The best podcast microphones

  • The Vocal Sure Shot. Pros and average folks alike pamper their voice with the stalwart Shure SM7B broadcast mic. ...
  • X Marks All Spots. An upgrade to a classic, the well-rounded Yeti X sports cool looks, sweet sound, and unique features.
  • Mic to Mouth Resuscitation. ...
  • Music to Listener’s Ears. ...
  • Modern Tech, Vintage Looks. ...
  • Package Deal. ...

What is the best equipment for a podcast?

Must-Have Podcast Tools

  1. External Microphone. Anyone who is even remotely familiar with the concept of sound recording will vouch for the importance of a good microphone.
  2. Microphone Stand & Boom Arm. Microphone stands, despite being relatively affordable, are often ignored by novice podcasters. ...
  3. Shock Mount. ...
  4. Pop Filters. ...
  5. Audio Interface. ...
  6. Headphones. ...
  7. Headphone Amplifier. ...

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What kind of mic do you need for a podcast?

cardioid micsMost podcasters should stick with cardioid mics, for solo speakers recording directly into a mic, and bi-directional mics, which records two speakers in front and in back.

What do I plug my podcast mic into?

USB microphones will plug right into your computer, and XLR microphones require an audio interface to connect. XLR microphones tend to produce higher-quality sound, but there are many USB microphones that sound great as well and will get the job done for minimal cost. It all depends on your preference and set up.

Can you do a podcast with 1 mic?

Using One Microphone Is Possible but Not Ideal. The bottom line is that you can record a podcast with a co-host or guest using only one microphone, but it's simply not recommended. For one, it will be difficult to control and mix if you do post-production work on your podcasts.

What do you need for a mic setup?

There are only 8 key pieces of equipment that you need for a successful home studio setup:Audio Interface.Microphone.Microphone Cable.Microphone Stand.Pop Shield.Headphones.Monitor Speakers.Acoustic Treatment.

Do you need 2 microphones for a podcast?

With a 2 or more person podcast, you'll each need an XLR microphone – and studio headphones are highly recommended. Because you can't easily record more than 1 USB microphone into one computer, you'll need a USB audio interface or mixer with at least as many XLR microphone inputs as you have hosts.

Do I need a podcast mixer?

You don't NEED a mixer to podcast, but getting one can improve your sound quality, increase your flexibility, and save you time! You don't need a mixer to podcast, but there are reason to want one!

What equipment is needed for a podcast?

For a conventional podcast, you need at a minimum a microphone, headphones, a computer, recording and mixing software, and internet access.

Are headphones necessary for podcasting?

You do need headphones for podcasting. Headphones are a must for any type of podcast kit. You're going to need headphones regardless of where you're recording, or the environment you're recording in. You'll need to be able to hear how you and everyone else on the podcast sounds.

What do I need to record a podcast at home?

6:5917:28How To Record A Podcast At Home For Beginners (Complete Guide)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou'll need either an audio interface. A mixer or a portable recorder they all do basically the sameMoreYou'll need either an audio interface. A mixer or a portable recorder they all do basically the same thing they convert your analog signal the voice that's going into the microphone.

Should a mic be high or low?

An MIC is generally regarded as the most basic laboratory measurement of the activity of an antimicrobial agent against an organism. Because a lower MIC value indicates that less of the drug is required in order to inhibit growth of the organism, drugs with lower MIC scores are more effective antimicrobial agents.

How do I make my mic sound better quality?

Seven Tips That Will Make Your Microphone Sound Better When RecordingTurn off anything noisy in the room. ... Keep the microphone OFF your desk, if possible. ... Keep your microphone with its back turned towards any noise source. ... Keep your microphone within a few inches of your mouth.More items...•

Does a microphone need an amplifier?

Microphones Typically Plug Into Microphone Preamplifiers. Microphones output mic level signals. These mic level signals require amplification to become line level signals (for use in mixing boards, digital audio workstations, and audio recorders).

How to make a mic sound good on a computer?

Grab a microphone like the SM7b, attach it to a boom arm, slap on a pop filter, and set it all up in a room with the least amount of noise. Then attach an XLR from the microphone to an audio interface, then into your computer. Boom, you have a high-level-sounding podcast that can rival the pros.

Which is harder, a condenser mic or a dynamic mic?

Dynamic mics are hardier than their condenser mic counterparts. Image by Kritidech aromoon.

How to improve sound quality on a show?

If this isn’t feasible for you, the simplest thing you can do to improve the overall sound quality of your show is to quietly sit in the room where you will record and listen intently. Is there an electric hum from some machine in the room? Is the air vent blasting right into a space where you plan to place your microphone? Or are the fans on your computer kicking on? Minimize as much sound pollution as possible and you will find yourself at a great starting point.

How to stop sound leaks in your home?

Reduce sound leaks from other parts of your home by recording in a room with carpet, utilizing professional soundproofing, or even just hanging blankets.

Does Rode Procaster have a microphone?

Rode has a rich history of creating quality microphones, and now they bring that history with them as they dive directly into the podcast market. It even has a sibling, the Rode Procaster. Essentially the Podcaster utilizes USB so that it can connect directly into your computer, while the Procaster uses an XLR.

Do podcast mics need external power?

These microphones don’t require any external power, so plug it in and get to rocking some sweet vocal tracks. This is a great option for anyone podcasting on the road in unpredictable settings and weather. Your environment will change what kind of mic you need. Image by Mila Drumeva.

Can boom arms be used for mics?

You can also invest in boom arms with shock mounts. These will absorb vibrations that could affect your audio, such as vibrations from when you touch items near the mic like a desk or your computer. For some of the microphones listed below, these things are actually a necessity to get them production ready.

What is a Yeti mic?

Anything by Blue is high build and audio quality. The Yeti USB mic is this same Blue quality in a mic that plugs directly into your computer. If you don’t have an interface, or want something that’s easy to travel with, a USB mic can be very useful. It has a headphone out for self monitoring and an on board gain control. The mic has a desktop stand and can be mounted to any standard mic stand.

Can you use a boom mic stand on a stage?

You could use a boom mic stand like you’d use on a stage if you’re a performer. But they’re a little clunky for at home use and there’s a better option anyway. This! It safely mounts onto your desk or table using an adjustable clamp. The boom arm itself is highly adjustable to get your mic in a comfortable and ergonomic spot.

What happens when you take past the mic?

When you take past the mic slightly, your constantly will be absorbed by your surroundings while your volume is absorbed by the mic. Watch your volume. Think of this as the Goldilocks rule. You don’t want to be too loud or too quiet--you want to be just right.

How to stop a phone from making a noise?

Make sure your air conditioning is off. Double-check you’ve closed the windows. Hold off on starting your laundry or dishwasher until after you’re done recording.

Do you need a mic stand?

You want to be able to hear how it all sounds. You’ll also need a mic stand of some sort. You can certainly get by with a table stand, but you run the risk of the mic picking up any noises coming from the table (for example, if you shift and hit the table).

Where is the pop filter on a mic?

The typical pop filter is a mesh or metal disk at the end of a flexible gooseneck that clamps on to your mic stand. Attach the clamp so that the filter is within a couple inches of the microphone capsule, then speak through the filter from an inch or so away.

What is ‘mic technique,’ and why does it matter?

As a concept, mic technique describes your relationship to your microphone when recording. It comprises a handful of factors including mic level, proximity, voice level, and mic angle. While these elements apply broadly to microphone recording, your management of them will vary depending on your specific mic setup, voice, and environment.

What does it mean when a microphone is warm?

A “warm” sounding mic may be slightly more sensitive to the midrange, and less sensitive to highs & lows.

How to tell if a mic is too close?

If you’re too close, the mic will pick up an unnatural amount of sound from your mouth and listeners may feel like you’re salivating or breathing on them (yuck). If you’re too far, you may start to notice more reverb or a decrease in the low end.

How does proximity affect sound?

How close you are to a microphone determines the impact of what’s known as "proximity effect" on your recording. Simply put, the closer you are to a microphone the more low-frequency information it will pick up, meaning a more “upfront” or “full” sound. The further away you get, the less low-frequency information and the more reverb/echo the mic will hear, meaning a more distant or “roomy” sound.

Why is mic technique important?

Mic technique matters because—once more for everyone in the back— what’s heard in your recording has more to do with your approach than your equipment. Good mic technique can elevate a mediocre-sounding microphone. Poor technique can utterly ruin a recording on even the most expensive microphones money can buy.

What type of microphone is used for mobile rigs?

The two most common types are dynamic and condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones like the Audio-Technica ATR2100 are less sensitive and can handle higher sound levels. Their design is simpler than a condenser and more rugged, which makes them ideal for mobile rigs and more extreme environments.

What is the best microphone for podcasts?

XLR or USB microphone. Your microphone is the most important part of your podcast studio setup. It has the greatest impact on the quality of your audio. A good condenser microphone will save you a lot of time during post-production. An XLR mic and USB microphones each have their advantages and disadvantages.

What is the best way to soundproof a podcast?

Soundproof foam panels are the best solutions here. Their purpose is to absorb sound so it doesn’t bounce all over the room and hit your mic. You can pick them up on Amazon. Attach them on hard surfaces, like blank walls, cabinet faces, or even the ceiling. Add soundproofing to your podcast studio setup.

What is the final component of a podcast studio?

The final component of your podcast studio setup is a podcast host. Technically this isn’t part of your podcast studio, but it’s a critical part of distributing your show, so we didn’t want to leave it out.

Why do you need a hosting service for Castos?

It’s how everyone experiences your content. You need a hosting service that exhibits your audio just as clearly as you record it. Castos gives you the tools to grow your audience, and connect with your community. We don’t impose bandwidth limits, so listeners can always access your content.

How much does it cost to rent a podcast studio?

You’ll find these rental studios in most major cities. They cost about $60-$100 per hour and often include cameras for video podcasting. You can rent a podcast recording studio for short durations.

What is a podcast studio?

Your podcast studio is your home base. It’s where your episodes leap off your notes and come to life ; where your content takes form and spreads through the world. So if you’re serious about your show, you need a decent podcast studio setup.

Why is performance important in podcasting?

Because a good performance is critical to the success of your show. People don’t invest their time in shows that produce low-quality audio. And if your studio sucks, so will your audio. But let’s be clear about one thing: You don’t need a state-of-the-art space with tens of thousands of dollars of podcasting gear.

What is the best setup for a podcast?

When it comes to a professional setup, it boils down to personal preference. Here is where we consider our users to be more experienced and sensitive with their sound setup. This allows them to tweak and configure things around for their liking to achieve that quality podcast setup. For any experienced podcaster, it is highly important to have a broadcast-quality microphone, headphone, and equipment. Some may also prefer including an audio interface for conversions, and better pop filters to eliminate pops.

What to consider when setting up a podcast?

Important things to consider when setting up your podcast are how many people will be hosting and your equipment setup. Good audio quality needs a good microphone, to begin with. And as you add more people, you can expand your gear to be able to manage things efficiently.

What is needed for a beginner mic?

A beginner starter kit would include a decent microphone, one that you can easily plug straight to your computer. Find one that includes a mic stand that can either sit on your desk or clamp on your desk with a boom arm because you’re most likely sitting while podcasting. Without a mic stand, you’re wrists and arms will get tired from holding the mic. Plus, holding the mic could result in wind noises as it’s rare any human can hold a mic for a long time without moving.

How to improve sound quality on a podcast?

To up things a bit, intermediate users would now consider integrating a shock mount . A shock mount is a device that helps improve sound quality by reducing noise and vibrations. Another is to employ a better microphone boom arm stand so that you can move more freely. With a boom arm, the microphone adjusts to your positioning and not the other way around. You’ll be more comfortable when podcasting.

Why do you need to have a shared podcast?

The more guests or participants, the more engaging your podcast could be because your audience will hear more genuine conversations and exchanges on a certain topic.

Why use a boom arm for podcasting?

Another is to employ a better microphone boom arm stand so that you can move more freely. With a boom arm, the microphone adjusts to your positioning and not the other way around. You’ll be more comfortable when podcasting. A couple potential setups you can look at here for a mic, shock mount and boom arm:

Why are host participants under 4?

The reason for containing your host participants under 4 is that it allows your audience to still be able to hear each one of them. Perhaps, you have also experienced – when there are so many people talking and interrupting each other in conversations, it feels a bit annoying. Plus, the recording and editing would get to be a technical nightmare.

How many equipment setups do I need for a podcast?

Based on how far you have come along in your Podcasting pursuit, or how committed you are to the long-term success, I recommend three equipment setups that will ensure a rich and clear recorded sound.

What is the best headphone for podcasts?

The Sony MDR-7506 is a favorite among audio professionals. They are the best choice for a reference headphone as they allow you to hear the nuances in sound very clearly while you record your Podcast. The comfort and fit are great for wearing headphones for long periods.

What is a rode microphone stand?

It is a highly adjustable microphone stand. You may use the Rode PSA1 swivel with your Rode microphone to achieve 360-degree rotation while recording your podcast.

What is a pop filter?

A pop filter acts as a shield between you and the microphone and breaks down sound to prevent vocal pops. Vocal pops can sound very distracting during your Podcast episode, so remember to include a double layer pop filter to achieve a smooth sound.

What is a vocal pop?

It is a popping or snapping noise that can ruin your recording, and it occurs when you record ‘B’ or ‘P’ sound into a traditional microphone.

What is ImprovePodcast?

I'm the owner and creator of ImprovePodcast.com, the site dedicated to providing actionable solutions for podcast creators. My goal is helping people to develop their podcasts into effective marketing and sales tools.

Is the Audio Technica a plug and play mic?

Both the microphones have a plug and play set up. The Audio Technica is a condenser mic with a sleek and elegant design. It has a second layer in addition to the wire mesh, which does a great job of eliminating noise. AT 2020 supports Cardioid polar pattern, and it is compatible with both Windows and Mac.

What is the best microphone for podcasting?

There's one microphone on our best podcasting microphones list that stands out over the others, and for a number of clear reasons. The Shure MV7 is one of the newer names on the block, but it has certainly made an impression on us. By combining the dual benefits of USB and XLR recording – and allowing them to be used at the same time should you need it – Shure has made one of the best podcasting microphones you can lay your hands on right now.

When will the Sontronics Podcast Pro be released?

Launched in early 2020, the Sontronics Podcast Pro is a dynamic microphone which has, as you may have worked out from the name, the world of speech recording in mind. This unique-looking broadcast mic is designed and built in the UK, and is geared entirely towards the spoken word.

How does a microphone affect recording?

Each microphone has a pickup pattern , which dictates where it receives audio from. A cardioid pickup pattern, for example, will receive audio from a specific location, i.e. at the front of the mic, and reject noise which does not come from that axis. This is really useful for speech as it means the mic works with you to reject unwanted ambient noise like computer fans or doors closing.

What is a blue yeti mic?

The Blue Yeti has become synonymous with a number of different applications. From Twitch gaming to YouTube tutorials, this mic is perhaps the best known out there, and for good reason. It's easy to use, sounds superb thanks to its three condenser capsules, and doesn't cost the earth to buy.

How to remove unwanted frequencies from mic?

Many modern mics also allow you to remove unwanted frequencies directly on the microphone, via a high-pass filter. This is useful to remove low-level rumbling or humming from the recorded sound, giving you cleaner audio to process in post-production.

What does polar pattern mean in recording?

The way it copes with ambient noise stands out; its tight polar pattern means that no matter how noisy the environment, what you record will sound extremely focused and clear.

What is the most important medium of communication in the 21st century?

The simple act of voices telling stories, conducting interviews or teaching weird and wonderful things has made it one of the most important communications mediums of the 21st century. There are podcasts about pretty much anything you can think of, including some pretty amazing music podcasts.

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