How To Record A Podcast

In this article, we will explore how to record a podcast. Whether you are doing it to promote your business, educate your employees or want to have your podcast show, this article will give you all the information you need to record a professional 

There was never a better time to start a podcast than right now. This relatively new industry has a massive potential for expansion. If you feel you are late to the party, you couldn’t be further from the truth. Starting a podcast now is the same as if you had started a YouTube channel in 2012. So, if you’ve got your idea and want to start, you’ve come to the right place.

Should I Record A Podcast With My Phone Or Built-In Microphone?

It might be tempting to believe that the fastest and easiest option is the best option. However, in a format like podcasting, where audio is the prime focus, it is very hard to grow an audience if your podcast is hard to listen to. People don’t spend too much time on content with poor audio quality, so they will never get a chance to discover your podcast.

Getting past this technical barrier is easier than you might expect and doesn’t have to be expensive. On the other hand, the upside is that your podcast will sound professional, and you will be one step closer to your goals.

Using A Webcam To Record A Video Podcast

If you plan on recording a video podcast, a simple webcam won't cut it. The competition on YouTube now is high, and listeners have a lot of choices. The hard truth is that nobody will watch a badly recorded podcast. So, investing in a decent camera is important for your podcast's success. There are a few plug-and-play cameras out there, but any professional podcaster or content creator would agree that a DSLR Camera is what you'll need in the long run. 

Podcast Equipment You Need

Before answering the question of how to record a podcast, we will need to decide on the podcast equipment we will use. So let's go down the rabbit hole.

Microphone

Assuming you already own a computer, the microphone is the first and most important piece of gear in your setup. At an entry-level price, you can record a podcast professionally. 

There are two things you need to think about when buying a microphone: the connectivity and the sound capture design.

Audio Interface

Simply put, the audio interface converts the analogue signal picked up by the microphone into a digital signal that the computer can read. In other words, it is a bridge between the microphone and the computer. A basic audio interface has one or multiple XLR connections, outputs for studio monitors and headphones, input and output gain controls, and a phantom power switch. It connects to the computer with a USB cable, which usually comes with an audio interface.

Although the audio interface may initially seem intimidating, the higher-quality converters built into it will provide better-sounding recordings. Furthermore, having an external hub for the audio gives the podcaster more control, which will lead to fewer unexpected malfunctions and a better experience in the long run.

Video Camera

If you plan to record a video podcast, as mentioned above, you must invest in a good-quality camera. Here, you'll need to take into consideration a few aspects. 

Lighting

Lighting is essential for recording high-quality podcasts, but what matters most is how you use it. There are budget-friendly options like Neewer, as well as premium brands like Aputure.

The type of light you choose may require a diffuser, which softens harsh light and creates a more natural, even spread throughout the room. Depending on your budget and the size of your room, you may opt for a 1-point, 2-point or 3-point lighting system.

Recording Software

With so many software options available, finding what’s best for you can be challenging. Here are your options:

Record Using an ATEM

An ATEM is equipment designed to record videos specifically. It works by recording the HDMI outputs of multiple cameras directly into an SSD. The most famous ATEM used in podcasting is the ATEM Mini Pro ISO by Blackmagic Design. This little device solves a lot of issues, and it will improve your workflow tenfold. 

Not all ATEMs are created the same, and some may be different, so it is important to check the manual for all the features.

The advantages of using an ATEM: 

• Record multiple cameras simultaneously on a single storage device.
• Use a large SSD, reducing the need for frequent reformatting.
• Edit your video podcast in real-time as you record.
• Stream multiple camera feeds at once.
• Capture audio and video together, ensuring perfect sync from the start.

Is there a downside? Well, there’s one minor limitation—ATEMs only record in 1080p. But honestly, recording a podcast in 4K feels like overkill.

Accessories

Boom arm

The practicality of a boom arm can’t be questioned because it contributes to the sound quality. The boom arm will help you position the microphone easily, allowing you and your guest to keep it close to the mouth at all times. Furthermore, it will protect the microphone from rumble or shock noise that might be picked up otherwise.

Pop filter

Although it may not seem so at first, the pop filter makes a big contribution to the consistency and quality of the sound. It protects your recording from plosives and excessive breath sounds. Also, the pop filter helps you keep an adequate distance from your microphone.

Headphones

Headphones are used in podcasts to monitor the sound and ensure a smooth recording. Monitoring will help you and your guests maintain a consistent sound throughout the show because you’ll always hear what the microphone is capturing. This way, you will know if you are too loud or soft or if the recording equipment is malfunctioning.

Cables

High-quality cables are always best. Although they might cost more, they will last longer and be cheaper per usage. Apart from being more reliable, a good cable will,in fact, give you better sound. A long cable will offer you more versatility, and for only a tiny price difference, you won’t need to worry about cable management. The last aspect to remember is to have at least a spare cable in case you need to replace one in your setup.

How To Record A Podcast?

Now that you understand what equipment you need to record a podcast, you'll need to learn how everything works. I will go through a few key aspects you need to keep in mind, but this entire process can also be an entire course. 

Connect All The Equipment

Each podcast setup will be slightly different, so I won't give you a standard recipe. In essence, what you need to do is ensure all your audio & video equipment is connected to your computer. Test each microphone and camera and ensure your computer properly records the information. You may need to perform a few tests before pressing the recording button.

Avoid Clipping

The first issue you'll encounter when learning how to record a podcast is audio clipping. This issue can be managed easily by turning the gain input lower. This knob is usually found on your microphone or audio interface. 

Control Camera ISO & F Stop Settings

Each video camera will have an ISO setting which you can control. Always try to aim for an ISO no larger than 200-300. 

How To Record A Podcast Remotely

Although many people are recommending Zoom because it is free, there are better options. On zoom the recording happens over the network, therefore its quality will be affected by the internet connection. Two solid options for recording remotely would be Zencastr and Riverside.fm because the sound will be recorded on the computers of the participants. The file will be uploaded after the host stops the recording, and the download will be available on a server immediately.

SHOPPING LISTS

We put together a gear-buying list for every budget and need to make it easier. I can assure you that every one of these will bring you excellent results. As the price increases, the gear might give you more versatility, detail and aesthetics. Keep in mind that some microphones may not include cables; therefore, you will need to buy them separately. 

LOW BUDGET

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MEDIUM BUDGET

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HIGH BUDGET

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