In the past era when radio was in the scene, the usage of microphones came into highlight to the majority of the population of the world. And, now, in this era of digitization, podcasts are the next big thing. In most of the podcasts, recording in person is suitable option. Because it brings no connection dropout, neither lag nor low resolution, or dampened computer audio.
While selecting podcast equipment, you have to consider several things like budget, probability, guests, and also the recording space. So, here we will study more about how to record face-to-face podcast interviews.
The recording of the clearer type of audio, without any interference or smudging from background noises, requires two microphones, placed right in front of the interviewer and interviewee. So, you will require recording devices, microphones, and other accessories to bring out the finest of the finest results.
Recording Device
Whether it is an audio interface to a standalone recorder or PC, you have to set up recording devices to capture the audio. With a suitable number of inputs from the microphone, you can simply set up an audio interface. It should be backed up by a reliable computer having enough ram and a good processor.
Separate mic cables are available in the market that can be used to attach microphones to the computer and later use software for recording the audio. Some portable recorders come with dedicated memory card slots that can let users save the file in the memory card.
Some recorder comes with built-in internal microphone. So, they are suitable for a solo microphone device or an extra microphone device to backup the other set of microphones. Yes, the most primary advantage of them is portability; if you carry a laptop and correct cables, you can record and edit audios where ever you are.
But always be sure before buying any piece of equipment to foresee future needs. If you expand your setup with co-host and other people all at the same time, then better invest in such things that come with better capacity.
Microphones
Now, after getting a suitable device for your recording, you need a good pair of XLR cables. It will help you to connect the microphone with the recording device. You cannot use a USB cable to connect unless the microphones have a combination of USB/XLR.
However, finding a microphone that supports both the type is a tough task. They are barely available in the market. Having this type of microphones is beneficial in situations where you can use these microphones along with a particular type of interface, known as the XLR audio interface. But then quickly plug into the laptop with a USB for recording a solo podcast episode.
Now talking about traditional microphones for face-to-face podcast interviews, there are plentiful of them that can be found in the market, so you get a large variety of them. It is completely advisable to avoid microphones that are not of a reputed brand or have no brand name, or are sold at a considerably lower price. The chances are that these types of microphones will stop working in some months, and the audio quality will be pathetic.
However, you can opt for cheaper options only from reputed brands; at least they provide a warranty to claim. Some microphones are available with stands, or boom arms, pop filters, cables, and some don’t. So, consider it as a factor to remember before conducting an interview.
Headphones
Headphones aren’t much needed in a typical interview, where two or three people are having a conversation. However, they are much needed when the show has audio effects or callers calling or remotely connecting with guests through calls.
So, it surely comes down to the type of show you are hosting; however, in case you require headphones, you’d probably seek a set for every guest. Also, do not forget to add a headphone amplifier to your shopping cart. So, research properly before making any decision.
Recording Space
While creating a recording studio, there exist lots of factors that need to be kept in mind. Like, if you are planning to transform a certain space into a recording studio, makes sure that the location is noiseless, the surfaces should be softened so that there is no echo, and ample space so that you can keep your machine and instruments, along with comfortability for the guests.
You can either make use of blankets or apply acoustic treatments in any area to minimize echo. The microphones should be correctly placed, focusing on each person’s voice. Recoding interviews can also be taken in any location, be it on a road, or café, or even a mall, but podcasts are usually taken in a concealed room, so you won’t have to worry about that.
Portability
The biggest issue of podcasting is portability. Guests may ask to meet somewhere away from the concealed studio. In those cases, you must carry your laptop, 3 microphones, stands, audio interface, cables, and headphones to record his/ her statement and conduct the podcast.
They will be hectic, and conducting those things will be an arduous job. However, if the situation seeks such things, you’ll have to do so.
Lower cost is equal to a degraded audio output
Some extra piece of advice for an in-person podcast interview. If your podcasts aim to involve more than 1 person, it is better to have a setup of multi-microphone. However, if you feel that you are tight on budget, you can opt for another setup of single-microphone, but yes, they won’t be beneficial enough. As you pass the microphone from one person to another, it can create much noise.
Now to avoid that better place the single microphone in one distinct place, the microphones will be able to capture the voice of a person at a time, which is known as “pickup pattern.” Cardioid patterns in microphones mean they will pick sound from one direction, discarding extra noise and sound echo.
However, some microphones come with Bi-directional and Omni-directional. The bi-directional pickup sound from front and back, and the omnidirectional pick up sound from all directions. The negativity is that they will even trap other noises. They will make the person sound far away from the microphone.
So, to counter that, make sure there lies an equivalent distance between people and the microphone. Always try to avoid tapping and movement-related noises.
Wrapping Up
If you truly want to please the audience both with your content and your audio output, forget to use cheaper options which is not only about microphones. But even also about wires, cables, audio interface, etc. as after some month they might stop working.
