How To Get Started Recording A Podcast

With the incredible success of podcasts like Serial, Comedy Bang Bang, WTF With Marc Maron and many others, there has been an explosion of internet-based audio series. If you're like most other podcast fans, you've probably said, "I can do this too," and thought about how you can start making your own episodic audio masterpieces. The truth is that it's extremely simple.

While many of these podcasts are recorded in professional studios, some like Marc Maron's WTF, are based out of a garage or office with a very minimal set-up. With a few simple pieces of equipment, some knowledge of computers and a little patience, you can get your new podcast up and running in no time.

Microphones
Simply put, without microphones, there wouldn't be podcasts. This is what is capturing your voice and the incredible insight you offer on a wide range of topics, The easiest way to select a microphone when you want to start recording your own podcast is to determine your budget and options for connectivity.

For those working on a strict budget, you may be interested in USB Microphones, which will allow you to forgo an audio interface and plug straight into your computer. There are many quality options like the Blue Microphones Yeti Pro Studio, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ and M-Audio Vocal Studio, that will offer great results with a price tag that won't hurt your wallet.

Many podcast all-stars like Marc Maron have had great success with simple, sturdy mics like the Shure SM7B (he employs two in his recording space). In general, cardioid microphones like the SM7B, Electro-Voice RE20 and Aston Origin work better in the podcast environment as they are capable of capturing pristine audio while also keeping background noise to a minimum. In almost all cases, these microphones will require a power source, but if you are using an audio interface with phantom power, you won't have to worry.

Pop Filters, Shock Mounts and Mic Stands
An often overlooked element of making any recording sound great are the accessories that help support your microphone. Mishaps like tables bumps, someone hitting a microphone or a guest who constantly pop their "p" sounds are bound to happen in any studio. In order to avoid any unnecessary audio issues and make editing as easy possible, outfit yourself with a great pop filter, shockmount and mic stand that fits your microphone.

Recording Devices And Audio Interfaces
If you won't be using a USB microphone, you'll need to use an audio interface to connect your microphones to your computer. Audio interfaces come in all shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to find one that will fit in your budget while still getting the best sound possible.

Brands like Focusrite and Presonus have made interfaces like the Clarett 2Pre and AudioBox 22 VSL that are inexpensive and enable you to record podcasts for under $500. If you're looking to take the next step, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin Duo and Apogee Pro Tools Duet will open you up to a world of plug-ins and other goodies for under $1000.

Software

When it comes to recording and editing your podcast, many computers and audio interfaces come with their favored software of choice. This makes it as simple, as logging in, plugging in your interface or USB Microphone and pressing record. If you'd like to experiment with other kinds of software, there are many manufacturers that offer a wide variety of programs including Ableton, Apple, Avid, PreSonus, Sony, Steinberg and more.

That's all you need to get started in the world of recording your own podcasts. Good luck on your budding career and don't forget us when you become a giant podcast star.