There are a ton of podcasts that are missing out on listeners simply because their audio doesn’t sound good. In this episode of the show, I decided to talk about 5 things that will show you how to not sound like you’re recording in an empty room. If you’ve listened to any up and coming podcaster, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
Tip 1 – Use a jacket or blanket to cover yourself while you record. While this isn’t a permanent solution, it should work until/unless you choose one of the approaches below. Check this guy out showing you what I mean. This guy too (this is a very entertaining video).
Best for – Single hosts; co-hosts located remotely
Tip 2 – Record in your closet or comparable small and “warm” room. The clothes in your closet will absorb all the sound you’ll be producing. Get in there and make it happen. Like this girl.
Best for – Single hosts; co-hosts located remotely
Tip 3 – Use a single microphone per host (not ONE microphone that picks up everyone’s voice). In other words, don’t sit around the room and record into a microphone that records everything (unless you have to because of budget).
Best for – Co-hosts all in the same room (like these guys)
Recommendation – The ATR 2100 is the mic that many podcasters recommend as a beginner mic…and with good reason. It’s durable, sounds great and has USB as well as XLR ports. It’s a great starter mic. Hell, it works for long-term professionals as well.
Tip 4 – Use a mixer. A mixer will actually will help with more than how to not sound like you’re in an empty room. It allows you to take control of your voice levels. With a mixer (and mics that are plugged into it), you have the ability to manipulate your voice. What if you’re softspoken? What if your co-host speaks very loud all the time? A mixer allows you to control the sound and volume of your individual voice.
Best for – All
Tip 5 – Create a mini sound booth. This is where you would take some cheap materials and place them in a box then place that around your microphone. There are a few different ways to do it. Here’s an example from Tracker Productions (click pic to see how this was built for $23):
Best for – Single hosts; co-hosts located remotely
Do you have more ideas on how to not sound like you’re recording in an empty room? I know I haven’t covered everything, but these are some quick and very affordable ways to get started.
If you’d like free one-on-one help with your podcast, hit me up.
