How To Record A Podcast

Today, I will teach you how to record a podcast in just five steps. Whether you are doing it to promote your business, educate your employees or want to have your own show, it will give you all the information you need to record professional audio.

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 A 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. So, where do I start?

There are five things you need to keep in mind when thinking about how to record a podcast:

1. Microphone
2. Audio Interface
3. Recording Software
4. Accessories
5. Skills

1. MICROPHONE

Assuming you already own a computer, the first and most important piece of gear in your setup is the microphone. It is responsible for your sound, and at an entry-level price, you can record high-quality audio. What microphone should you choose?

You might opt for a USB or XLR microphone, depending on your needs.

USB Microphone

A USB microphone is a good alternative for a one-person show. It is very easy to use and requires less gear and fewer steps in the set-up process. For this reason, it is also more portable: You just plug it into your computer and start recording.

When NOT to buy a USB microphone?

The real disadvantage of a USB microphone is that it is only great for a one-person set-up. This might be problematic if you wish to expand your podcast. Recording with two or more USB mics is possible; however, it is far from optimal and can quickly become frustrating. Unless you only want to record yourself, it might be a better option to choose an XLR microphone.

XLR Microphone

The XLR is a professional connector usually found on professional equipment. It relies on three or seven pins to transport electricity, making this type of connection more reliable. Because you can’t plug your XLR cable straight into your computer, connecting the two requires additional gear ( an audio interface ). Most podcasters prefer this type of setup because it facilitates the workflow and gives them better and faster control over the recording.

When NOT to buy an XLR Microphone?

In most cases, an XLR microphone is the better option because it is more versatile and has a better connector. However, if portability is your prime deciding factor or you simply do not wish to invest in an audio interface, a USB microphone might be your best option.

Dynamic or Condenser that is the question

There are two main types of microphones: Dynamic and Condenser. There are also other types of microphones, but this would deviate from the purpose of this article.

Dynamic microphones are usually used in live environments. They are very durable and highly capable of blocking noise, making them optimal for podcasting in unpredictable environments. The only downside is that the speaker needs to stay relatively close to the microphone. Otherwise, the sound might not be captured properly. You can find either a USB or XLR version of the dynamic microphone.

Condenser Microphones are best suited for controlled environments. They are very sensitive and offer better sound clarity. They do not require extensive mic techniques and can pick up sound from relatively far away without affecting their qualities too much. This type of microphone usually requires phantom power, which is an external power source. However, you do not need to worry about this because most audio interfaces or mixers have this feature. You can find either a USB or XLR version of the condenser microphone.

2. 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 the 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.

3. RECORDING SOFTWARE

With so many software options available, finding what’s best for you can be challenging. For that, we put together a short list to help you decide the best way to record your podcast.

Free Software

Audacity

Audacity is by far the most used recording software. The reasons are simple: it’s free and easy to use. You can record multiple channels and have all the basic controls you might need. Furthermore, with their last update that improved their file management, Audacity is now even more user-friendly.  For these reasons, Audacity is our top recommendation for podcasters. If you wish to learn how to record a podcast using Audacity, watch this short tutorial.

Garage band (Mac only)

Garage Band is a free recording software that is pre-installed on Mac computers. The advantage of using Garage Band to record your podcast is that it has a more intuitive interface, and it comes preinstalled on your computer. The only reason it isn’t more popular is that it doesn’t work on Windows or Linux.

Paid Software

Unless you are editing and processing your own podcast, there’s no need to invest in better software. However, if you wish to go solo in your journey, we have some options for you: 

• Alitu
• Hindenburg Journalist Pro
• Adobe Audition
• Descript

Each has unique features that can save you time and energy, but editing and processing the audio properly requires in-depth knowledge, skill, and a lot of time.

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.

4. 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. Lastly, if your podcast is filmed, having a boom arm in your podcast can show professionalism and contribute to the aesthetics of the video.

– 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.

5. SKILLS

Learning how to record a podcast requires building up your skill set. You need to know how to use your tools. Get to know your equipment and do some tests; figure out what every knob does and how to connect everything properly. If you feel that it gets overwhelming and you get lost in YouTube’s rabbit hole, drop us a line, and we’ll help you figure it out.

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

Tip: Scroll Left & Right

MEDIUM BUDGET

Tip: Scroll Left & Right

HIGH BUDGET

Tip: Scroll Left & Right