Recording a Podcast
Just like an assembly line, there are different stages in the recording process. Improving each stage will improve the overall recording and neglecting a stage can result in a bad recording.
What is Signal Flow?
According to The Studio D Audio Glossary:
Signal Flow is the path an audio signal will take from source to the speaker or recording device.
What are the different stages of my Signal Flow?
Check out our Podcasting Equipment Guide for more recommendations.
Audio Source:
A microphone is like an ear. There needs to be some source of sound in order for it to record anything. In podcasts, the main audio source is humans talking. But there are other sounds being recorded as well (Room tone, electrical hum, outside noise, body movement). These are usually unwanted noise and we must account for them.
People should speak slowly and clearly and do multiple takes if possible.
Remember that the microphone is like an ear and will pick up any mouth noises or body movement that we typically don’t hear from normal speaking distance.
Microphone:
This stage is what most people think of when they hear ‘recording’. While important, the most expensive microphone in the world can’t fix a bad audio source and poor positioning. (See ‘How to Set Up a Microphone’ below)
Find a microphone that you are comfortable with and figure out how to get the most out of it.
A good starting price is $100 (Shure SM58), then upgrade around the $300-$500 range when you can.
Studio D recommends the Shure SM7B Microphone.
A good microphone will record an audio source, so that it sounds like you are in the room with that audio source.
A good microphone also records what it is supposed to, while rejecting outside noise (Room noise, fans, other people, etc.).
XLR Cable:
An XLR Cable is what connects the microphone to the next stage (Audio Interface). An XLR cable carries electrical signal while rejecting any outside signals.
A good cable can go a long way in making sure there is no distortion or electrical hum on the recording.
Studio D recommends the LyxPro XLR Cable (20 ft).
Audio Interface:
Converts the electrical signal into a digital signal so a computer can record it.
This is an important stage to upgrade when you can.
The most expensive microphone in the world would not sound great on a bad Audio Interface.
Studio D recommends the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
Recording and Editing
Format: You should always record in .wav format, at a minimum of 24 bits and 44.1 kHz. .Wav files do not compress data, unlike .mp3s, which should only be used when the final version is complete. 24-bit offers a good range of sound, while anything lower than 44.1 kHz will result in a noticeable loss of quality.
Editing: Editing is where a lot of the magic happens, and it's often worth hiring help since it takes years to get good at it. Unless you are aiming for a highly creative effect, most edits should go unnoticed so they don't distract the listener. Editors must find a balance between fixing mistakes and keeping the conversation natural, as people say 'um' and 'uh' in everyday life. Finally, focus on having a strong hook, a compelling narrative, and a memorable conclusion. Figure out a workflow for your process and use a template to save time.
Other Suggestions for Better Sound
Fix the Room: You can save time by dedicating a quiet room that is set up to record. Try to minimize reflective surfaces like windows and wooden tables, and help deaden the room with carpets, blankets, or acoustic foam.
Remote Interviews: If interviewees cannot travel to your space, ask if they have their own equipment. You could pay a freelancer to do a "tape sync" by recording them at their home or office, or you can record over a calling service like Skype. Consider using tape syncs for better audio quality from guests.
General Recommendations and Next Steps
Always value content over quality; if the story isn't good, nobody is going to listen anyways.
Plan your episodes using tools like Airtable or Trello to avoid wasting time fixing mistakes during the recording and editing process.
Buying your own recording equipment is a great long-term investment, and buying used is often better because it lasts a long time and helps with price.
Make sure everyone involved understands how to make the sound quality better, such as speaking into the microphone, turning off cell phones, and wearing headphones for video calls.
Always use .wav files until the final product.
Need Professional Help? Check out our Production Services.