Here are some tips to help you get started.
Keep your podcast studio setup simple. You don’t have to go big, but it is possible to produce high quality podcasts with minimal equipment.
Don’t buy too much or too little. With the variety of high-quality-low-cost equipment out there, price isn’t necessarily a good indicator of what you should avoid for your home studio equipment.
A good rule of thumb is that too little is not always better. However, a larger investment will usually result in more durability and better audio quality. The difference in audio quality is often minimal, and it all depends on your priorities.
Do your research before spending.
Trust your gut instinct. Your home studio setup is personal. Follow your instincts and add or subtract as much as you like.
Podcast Studio soon to be
Before you order your podcast equipment, think about the room you are going to turn into your home recording studio. If you only have one spare room, it will be fine. If you have the luxury to choose, the ideal home recording space will be small and minimally affected from external noise.
The perfect home podcast table setup
You won’t be able to have walls or external walls attached to the neighbor’s home.
You won’t be able to see all or a few windows.
You won’t need any appliances (think boiler, gas meter), that make unusual noises.
Soft furnishings and carpeted floors will be available.
What is the difference in soundproofing and sound treatment?
Soundproofing is the process of removing any external noise from a space. This is what soundproofing means:
You can block your rooms with dense, heavy building material and seal any air gaps between windows and doors.
Contrary to popular belief soundproofing space does not mean that foam acoustic tile walls are soundproof.
Acoustic treatment is the process of improving the sound quality in a space. This is all about acoustics, reverb, and other related factors.
Sound treatment is used to adjust the amount of sound that is reflected in your home.
The room should have lots of soft, furnished surfaces to prevent echo and reverb. This will make it half the work you need.
Sound treatment includes three components:
1. Bass Traps
They can absorb high/mid/bass frequencies.
Auralex LENRD bass traps – $199.99
2. Absorption
These are where acoustic foam tiles can help. They reduce the resonating frequencies in the space and increase the quality of your audio recordings. You may end up needing more tiles than you originally thought. This can be costly.
These can be attached to walls in a variety of ways. There are permanent, semi-permanent and temporary options.
Auralex SonoFlat Panels $144.99
3. Diffusers
Some schools of thought believe that absorption is best when diffusers are also included. Diffusers diffuse reflected sound while maintaining the natural tone. Some would argue that diffusers don’t need to be used in a home studio.
T’Fusor 3D Sound Diffuser – $77.99
The Ideal List of Podcast Studio Equipment
#1 Laptop or computer
Stick with the model if you are on a tight budget or happy with your current setup. If you have the funds and the willingness to spend, consider upgrading to a more current model.
A reliable computer should have a high processing speed and ample storage. Because the files that you will be recording audio and possibly video will be large, this is important.
Your Digital Audio Workspace (DAW), may impact the type of computer that you require. Logic Pro X, for example, is only available on Macs.
Budget:
Keep doing what you’re good at!
Asus VivoBook – $348
Mid-Range:
Macbook Air – $999
Acer Aspire 5 – $699.99
Professional:
Touchbar for 16-inch Macbook Pro – $2499
Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 – $1975
#2 Digital Audio Workspace / Audio Interface Combo
DAW is the software that you use to record, edit, and mix audio on your computer. This is basically a recording and editing program that you can use to adjust your audio and correct any mistakes.
Budget:
Audacity is a free and open-source DAW that works with all operating system, but does not allow multi-track recording.
Garageband is included with all Apple computers.
Mid-Range:
Reaper is a lightweight, affordable DAW with a $60 (discounted), one-time licensing fee. Professional licenses are $225
Hindenburg Journalist is a podcasting, interview and radio-friendly software. The basic version costs $99 Multitrack recording is not available in the pro version.
Professional:
Logic Pro X – Only for Macs Podcast productions may be a bit too complicated. $199
Adobe Audition – $20.99/month
Hindenburg Journalist PRO – Multitrack recording and enhanced editing capabilities $399.
#3 Microphones
There are two types: condenser and dynamic microphones. Also, there are two types connectors: XLR or USB. Each of these options has its advantages and drawbacks. The wide selection of microphones available today means that price does not necessarily correlate with quality.
Dynamic Microphones
Because they pick up less ambient sound and are usually more affordable, dynamic mics are the best option for home studio setups. They are more durable and can handle large volumes without distortion.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser Mics can be more sensitive to ambient noise, which is a problem if your home studio has not been soundproofed. This heightened sensitivity allows for top-quality audio quality and the ability of recording crisp and detailed sounds.
Which microphone is best for podcasting?
The difference in suitability and capability between the two types can be explained by the diaphragm’s size and weight. Dynamic mics have an even smaller diaphragm. The diaphragms that are heavier and more resistant to moisture tend to last longer.
It is difficult to decide which mic type is best. It all comes down to personal preference and budget. Find the one that suits you. Dynamic mics are designed for hosting, general voice recording, interview settings, and other purposes.
USB Microphones
The USB microphones can be connected directly to your computer. This makes them extremely simple to use. USB microphones are becoming increasingly popular in home studio settings. You should note that USB mics tend to be condenser microphones.
XLR Microphones
An XLR microphone must be connected to a mixer that is connected to your computer. You will need to have more equipment. This is a great option for guests or hosts who have multiple hosts. You can adjust the audio level directly using the mixer during recording.
Budget
Samson Q2U $126 – XLR/USB. This makes it versatile. It comes in a set with accessories for microphones.
Sontronics Podcast Pro $119, XLR, Dynamic
Blue Yeti USB Microphone, $132, USB connection, Condenser
Mid-Range
Rode NT-USB – $165, USB, Condenser
Audio Technica AT2035PK – $199, XLR, Condenser
For professionals
Rode Procaster – $229, XLR Dynamic
Shure MV7 – $249, USB. XLR. Dynamic
Shure SM7B – $439, XLR and Dynamic
#4 Audio Interface
This is the hardware that connects to your computer and your equipment. An XLR microphone will require one of these in order to digitize the analog input. In case you need to connect more than one mic, an audio interface should have at least two XLR inputs.
Important Note: You don’t need a USB microphone if you already have one.
Midrange
Rode AI – 1 USB – 1 input XLR – $122
For professionals
Zoom PodTrak P4 – 4 XLR inputs, $199.99
Zoom PodTrak P4 can be used as a podcast interface and doubles up to act as a USB audio interface. Record up to four guests remotely and local participants.
#5 Audio Mixers
Mixers can be used to send and receive multiple audio inputs. Mixers can be used to modify the audio for each input.
Tip: A mix-minus feature is available. This allows you to split your audio signals into 2 separate channels. One for you and one with your guest. You have complete control over each track.
Budget:
Do not skimp on mixers. If you can’t afford one, do not buy it.
Mid-Range
Zoom PodTrak 4 – $199.99 – This versatile product can be used as an audio interface or mixer.
Yamaha MG10 XU – $212
For professionals
Rodecaster – $599 – This device also acts as a digital recorder and has a built-in memory card.
#6 Headphones
Headphones let you listen to your music clearly and cancel out background noise.
There are two types: open back and closed back headphones.
Closed-back headphones offer better isolation and a lower sound quality. Because they are less likely to leak sound, these headphones are ideal for podcasters.
Open-back Headphones – Maximum sound quality and less isolation
What you should look for in headphones
Comfort: These headphones will be worn for hours, so it’s important to feel comfortable.
Sound isolation: Your headphones must block outside noise. Some active noise cancellation headphones can capture outside noise and then invert it inwards to cancel it. This can result in compressed audio that is not perfect for editing.
Frequency response is a key factor in the sound quality of your audio when you listen back.
Wired or wireless: It all depends on your personal preference. Wireless headphones are best if you find yourself walking around your home studio a lot.
#8 The Mic Stand
It may seem that you can forget about a microphone stand once you have all your equipment. You are wrong! The mic stand keeps your microphone in place, protects it from vibrations and knocks, and makes sure that your microphone doesn’t get bumped or shaken.
Rode DS1 Desktop Mouse Stand- $26
A few (nice, but not essential) extras
Boom arm
The boom arm is a great way to free up space on your desk. This arm looks and feels professional. Your mic will sound better because it is suspended.
It will also reduce handling noises, vibrations, or knocks that your microphone will undoubtedly pick up.
Rode PSA1 – $99
Desk Work Station with a comfortable chair
It is possible that you will spend a lot of time editing at home, so it is important to take care of your back! You can reuse furniture that you already have if you are on a budget. If you have the money, an ergonomic chair is a good investment.
SIHOO Ergonomic Home Office chair – $284
Shock mount
The shock mount acts as a cradle to your microphone. The shock mount protects your microphone from vibrations so that noise interference and disturbances will be reduced in the event of a heavy vehicle.
Rode PSM1- $41
Pop filter
Pop filters reduce the popping sound of p’s and t’s, thereby reducing audio distortion. You can also use it to stop spit from hitting your microphone.
Pop filters can be clipped to your microphone. They are very simple to use, inexpensive, and highly efficient.
Nady MPF-6, $24.95
Software for ear training
Although it may seem like a lot, this is not a bad thing. You can train your ears to become a sound engineer, and make your audio sound the best.
Tenuto – $3.99 in the App Store
Reflection Filter
A reflection filter is a cost-effective alternative to acoustic tiles. The semi-circle reflection filter attaches to the mic and wraps around it. It basically does what acoustic insulation would do to your home studio.
sE Electronics Reflexion Filter PRO – $199
Headphone amplifier
A headphone amplifier is a great investment if you have multiple hosts. You can plug multiple headphones into the amp and each person will have control of their headphone volume.
HeadAmp4 – $73
Here are some tips to compensate for what you don’t have
Close miking. Place the microphone close to the sound source (i.e. Your mouth can increase the amount of sound that reaches your microphone and decrease reflected sound.
Household Absorbers. You can think of pillows, blankets and sofas. They can be just as effective as professional absorbers. Mattresses are the best DIY way to record vocals.
Top tip: Use a thick core mattress and not light innersprings for the best podcast setup results.
How to set up your podcast studio
Step 1. Step 1. Prepare the room
Clear the space and remove all items.
Step 2. Step 2.
Soundproofing can be a costly undertaking that requires time and energy. Many home studios don’t soundproof.
There are four methods to soundproof your space:
You can increase density or mass. This will increase the material density in your space. It means that walls won’t vibrate so much. Materials like mass-loaded vinyl are possible.
Damping – This helps to dissipate the vibrations. Green glue is also available.
Decouple – This stops sound vibrations transferring between objects. This can be done by creating a floating floor, or double walls.
Use Foam Gaskets and Green Glue to Fill Air Gaps
Step 3. Step 3.
How to sound treat your home recording studio:
Place the bass traps at the corners of the trihedral.
Place the acoustic panels on the corners of the dihedral.
Place the acoustic panels evenly across the walls.
If you decide to buy diffusers, position them towards the ceiling and the top of the wall.
Step 4. Step 4.
This will depend on your personal preference, the size and shape of your room and the equipment that you have chosen.
Signal flow is an important consideration. It’s crucial to understand how your equipment works together to create a single system.
Start recording!
You’re now ready to start your own podcast studio at home! Congratulations. We are confident that investing in a home studio for podcasting is a smart and long-lasting investment. Your recording environment will be greatly improved, and you’ll always get the best quality. It’s a win/win situation.
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