Before You Start

If you haven’t yet created a podcast, the initial step is to assess your objectives. Identify the kind of podcast you want to launch. The most favored formats include:

  • Interview podcasts
  • Conversations between two or more hosts
  • Solo shows that are becoming increasingly popular among listeners. These podcasts use storytelling to captivate their audience and convey a message or idea. 
  • They can include various types of stories, from true crime investigations to fictional tales, and often feature various sound effects and music to enhance the listener’s experience. 
  • The rise in popularity of narrative podcasts reflects a growing interest in immersive audio experiences that transport the listener to different worlds and engage them in compelling stories.
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Every niche has unique requirements and preferences. For example, podcasters who conduct interviews will prioritize video communication software that simplifies remote interviews. On the other hand, narrative podcasts that possess sophisticated production will necessitate advanced capabilities for editing and mixing.

Before you start anything else, it is crucial to determine the requirements of your podcasting audience and your individual objectives. This will aid in deciding the necessary equipment setup and software characteristics you would need.

The main focus of this article is on the requirements for remote interview podcasts, but the essential methods for ensuring high-quality remote recordings can be implemented in other types of podcasts as well.

Podcast Equipment Checklist

It is important to adjust your setup and your guest’s setup appropriately according to your objectives. Ensure that you spend money on suitable materials and tools to achieve outcomes similar to those of a professional studio.

Your Own Setup

Remote recording microphone

To begin with, purchase a microphone. While it may be tempting to rely on the equipment that comes with your computer, it is recommended to avoid doing so. Using built-in microphones can prove to be a significant error.

If you have limited funds or prefer a microphone that is easy to use, you may want to consider purchasing one of these USB microphones that can be used immediately after plugging them in.

  • Rode Procaster ($250)
  • Rode NT-USB ($177) 
  • Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB ($80)‍

You should consider purchasing a pop filter so that unwanted sounds such as “p” and “b” are reduced when you speak through a microphone. These sounds can be quite distracting for the listener.

Headphones

Ensure that you utilize headphones while recording. The type of headphone can vary from your typical earbuds to specialized high-end headphones such as the frequently used Audio Technica ATH-M50x.

It is crucial to use headphones to avoid your microphone picking up unwanted noise during recording. Additionally, headphones can improve your awareness and sound control while recording, particularly if you use noise-canceling ones.

Video camera

You will also have to select a camera for your recording as it is likely that you will desire to utilize video in some capacity.

The ability to see each other during the podcast recording is a valuable feature regardless of whether they choose to include the video in their final product or not. 

Additionally, some podcasters opt to use video as an additional platform for sharing their content.

No matter the purpose for which you need a video, it is recommended to either opt for an external webcam, such as the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 or the Logitech C922, or a handheld camcorder that offers excellent video quality like the Sony HDR-CX405/B, Panasonic HC-V770K Full HD Camcorder, or Canon VIXIA HF R800.

Location

To set up your podcast studio, it is important to select a peaceful location that is free from any disturbances and environmental sounds. It is advisable to opt for a room with carpeting as it helps in reducing echoes.

One may not require professional soundproofing for their room, but it would be beneficial to purchase a reflection filter that can be placed around the microphone. This will aid in minimizing echoes and result in a studio-quality sound level.

Your Guest’s Setup

To achieve optimal outcomes, your guest requires equipment that is similar to yours. In case they lack any necessary equipment, you should consider providing them with a microphone to ensure that they have everything they require.

Make sure to select a simple microphone, like the USB plug-and-play models mentioned earlier, to begin with. This way, you won’t have to waste several uncomfortable minutes explaining how to set up the mic to guests who may not be as tech-savvy as you.

It’s important for your visitor to wear headphones too. This is because headphones (even if they’re not top quality) can help reduce echoes and other sounds that might interfere with their part of the conversation.

If there is no microphone available, or if you are in a difficult situation, suggest that they use their regular earbuds with a built-in microphone. This option is still much better than relying on the low-quality built-in microphone of their laptop.

Motivate your visitors to arrange a space that is conducive to good quality sound. Make certain to recommend some of the following options:

  • Request that they locate a calm area where they can make a recording without any noise or disturbance. Ideally, the area should be furnished with carpets and comfortable seating to reduce the effects of echoes.
  • Urge your visitors to refrain from producing sounds such as a fan, an air conditioning device, or any loud equipment that may be operating in proximity.
  • Request that they turn off their phone’s sound and close any additional tabs on their browser to decrease the chance of unexpected alerts.
  • Before beginning, advise them to speak clearly into the microphone and don’t hesitate to remind them during the interview if necessary. It’s preferable to edit out those reminders than subjecting your audience to unclear audio.

Podcast Recording Software

When it comes to selecting software for your podcast recording, your specific requirements play a vital role, particularly when determining whether you need solely audio or both audio and video. Despite the numerous elements to take into account, we will provide an overview of some fundamental aspects.

WAV vs MP3 files

The main objective here is to achieve a good compromise between audio quality and file size. On the other hand, WAV format is uncompressed, which means it takes up more storage space but ensures that no audio data is lost. 

Therefore, if you want the best possible sound quality for your podcast, it’s recommended to use WAV format. The objective is to produce high-quality audio that can be downloaded in smaller file sizes.

WAV files are an unprocessed audio format that maintains the original sound quality with no loss or removal of audio. It is recommended that a recording system offers WAV files to ensure the highest quality recordings.

It is recommended to save your recording in WAV format if it is feasible, but you should also ensure that the file type is supported by your podcast hosting platform and the platform your listeners use to listen.

Video resolution

As you begin recording a video, ensure that your chosen software works well with your camera or webcam. It is recommended to record the video in at least 720p HD quality, although recording in 4K resolution can provide even better results. 

If you are recording the video directly from your camera, be sure to configure the settings correctly. As long as your camera has the ability to record in 4K, it should not cause any issues. 

However, if you are using recording software, keep in mind that not all software is capable of capturing 4K video, especially if it depends on your internet connection.

Online vs local recording

If you are utilizing software for remote recording, it is important to distinguish between online and local recording. Online recording involves capturing files over the internet, which can be affected by connectivity problems. 

Your final outcome is heavily influenced by the stability of your internet connection. Alternatively, local recording… The software takes hold of all your files directly from your device, irrespective of your internet connectivity.

There are four techniques for creating a remote podcast recording.

Our methods for remote recording outline the recommended software options depending on whether you are just recording audio or also capturing video. 

If you opt to record video, it is important to use either the software we suggest or a comparable application that allows for simultaneous audio and video recording. A software that can be used for recording video conferences or specifically designed for video podcasts.

We will examine each situation individually in the sections that follow.

Recording audio podcasts using a Mixer from a distant location.

A tool known as a podcast mixer is used to convert various audio input tracks into a computer-friendly format. If you are recording your podcast with multiple individuals present, you will need to connect a microphone for each person to the mixer.

Were you aware that certain mixers also provide integration for remote calls?

In a distant arrangement, you have the option to link your phone to your mixer and record an audio interview straight from your device. Certain mixers, such as the Rodecaster Pro, even offer compatibility with call recording software.

If you already possess a mixer, this is an excellent choice; however, it entails a somewhat intricate configuration and is incapable of remotely recording video.

If you are capturing a visual presentation, consider utilizing one of the alternative alternatives listed below.

Recording with video calling software

There is no doubt that Zoom has gained more prominence in recent times due to the sudden shift towards remote work and online communication caused by the pandemic, despite Skype being present in the market for a longer period of time. 

Both services offer similar features such as video conferencing and video podcast recording, but Zoom has become more popular due to these unprecedented circumstances. The idea conveyed is that Skype’s ability to provide good sound quality and smooth connections falls short compared to that of Zoom.

Several podcasters utilize Zoom to conduct interviews with people in different locations as they are already acquainted with the system, which is convenient to operate. 

Furthermore, it allows you to provide a one-click link for your interviewee to join without having to install the Zoom application. 

The recorded video session can be saved in M4a format and can be easily edited and uploaded onto the preferred podcast platform. Files in either audio or video format can be found in MP4 format.

In case you are new to Zoom and have a limited budget, you can use it for free for up to 40 minutes while having a conversation with at least three participants. 

However, the quality of Zoom podcast recordings is not the best as they are recorded online, making it susceptible to internet issues that may harm the quality. 

Most serious podcasters prefer not to use Zoom for recording because it has limitations such as poor audio quality and not being able to capture separate video tracks. This can hinder their editing process. Instead, they use specialized software or double-end recording.

Recording podcasts in two separate locations using double-end recording.

The better quality of each participant’s recording, results in a better overall audio experience for the audience. Therefore, if you want your podcast to sound its best, utilizing the double-ender recording method is highly recommended. The standard of communication from both parties involved in the conversation.

In the past, one disadvantage of recording in your own location was that you may have to merge and manipulate the edited and mixed outcome by yourself. Additionally, you would need to rely on the expertise of your host to ensure that their part of the recording was done accurately.

Thanks to advancements in technology, there exists a novel method of recording double-ender podcasts with specialized remote recording software.

Using specialized podcast software installed on a separate device to make a recording.

Video conferencing software is specifically designed for virtual meetings whereas remote recording software is focused on capturing video and audio of individuals who are situated in various locations simultaneously.

An instance of this is trying out Riverside, which provides you with video podcasts that are of top-notch quality without any difficulty regardless of your and your guests’ location.

Before You Press Record

Before starting to record your debut podcast remotely, make sure to verify your environment. Conduct a trial of all the equipment. Confirm that your phones are on silent mode, keep distractions to a minimum, and shut down any extra browser tabs.

It is advisable to create a duplicate recording as a safety measure, irrespective of the software you select. This is particularly relevant when you’re still becoming accustomed to a new system.

Podcast Editing

After you’re done with the recording, there are still some tasks left to be completed. You will have to give your remote podcast some final touches.

Podcast editing To rephrase the paragraph in English language, it means that the process involves incorporating an introduction or conclusion, editing sections of an interview (such as removing verbal pauses or coughs), and adding background music. There may also be a need to shorten the episode to a more appropriate duration.

Several choices of software exist for the editing of both audio and video materials.

Audacity is available for use without charge, but it may require some effort to become proficient.

When it comes to editing videos, Adobe Premiere Pro is considered the leading software in the industry. It uses a nonlinear approach which allows for editing of 4K and higher resolution videos. Alternatively, you can opt for Final Cut Pro X by Apple, which is a professional-level alternative to iMovie.

While it’s known for its powerful tools, learning how to use it can be challenging. I’m sorry, but the paragraph you provided only contains one word (“fingertips”). Please provide a complete paragraph for me to paraphrase.

Recording Process

You should have possible audio equipment and technical expertise to ensure that the recordings meet the highest levels of excellence, despite being recorded remotely. With an increasing number of podcasters switching to remote recording, the expectations for high-quality recordings have also grown. Regardless of how the recording is done, it is crucial that the results meet rigorous standards. 

Therefore, in 2023, our approach to remote podcast recording prioritizes setting up a top-notch studio with exceptional audio equipment and technical know-how. This way, we guarantee that even though the recordings are done remotely, they still meet superior levels of quality. A computer program along with an advanced editing technique.

We utilize a USB microphone in conjunction with noise-canceling headphones to ensure audio quality while also making the recording process easier. To reduce distractions and extraneous sounds, we exclusively use a carpeted spare bedroom for podcast recordings and advise our guests to do the same.

Additionally, we employ a comprehensive script to eliminate the need for improvisation. We make many changes, but if they are needed, we utilize Adobe Premiere Pro for adjustments.

FAQs on How to Record a Podcast Remotely

What is the method to record a podcast from a distance without any cost?

It is possible to record a podcast interview for free, and in fact, doing so from different locations can even be cost-effective. You won’t have to pay for travel expenses or studio rentals.

It is recommended to purchase a good microphone, but there are options for free remote recording software for creating podcasts with guests who are not present. Riverside provides a free plan for remote recording.

Is it possible to create a podcast with individuals located in separate regions?

Certainly! As mentioned earlier, it is not difficult to learn how to create a podcast from various locations. If you choose to use one of the top platforms for creating podcasts from different places, it won’t matter where your guests are located; your podcast interviews will still be of excellent quality. 

Is it possible to create a podcast without being in a recording studio?

Although it is ideal to record in a silent environment, it is possible to record a podcast in a location other than a studio. In such cases, appropriate outdoor podcast equipment such as a super-cardioid or shotgun microphone should be used to minimize the amount of background noise picked up during the recording. 

To gain further knowledge, we recommend going through our manual that provides instructions on setting up a podcast studio at home that works remotely.