Getting Past "Depends" in Podcast Answers

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What Do I Need To Start A Podcast?

I recently appeared at a local meetup for a group in Alabama. The question, "what do I need to start a podcast" came up. I've talked about this in the past and hit different aspects, and I'm going to try to hit all aspects in this episode.

Things Everyone Needs No Matter What

A Pop filter for your microphone. This could be a foam ball to put over the end, or a mesh shield that goes between you and the microphone. I'm a fan of the Nady SSPF-3 if you're using an ATR2100 or a Samson Q2U. If you are using something like an Electrovoice RE320 you might consider a foam shield with a shock mount or this "repop" filter only available at BSW

Your Topic

Your topic should be something that you can't help but talk about. You would be willing to talk about it for free for HOURS (cause you are). It's a topic that needs to hold the attention of your target audience and inspire them to tell a friend. It also needs to be in alignment with your goals for the podcast.

It Depends...

From there you get the most used answer in podcasting, "It depends." While this is true, you often don't get the pros and cons of your options so that is what I'm going to try to do here - make you away of your options.

What Microphone Should I Use for My Podcast?

Why it Depends:

Option 1: Traveling Podcaster

If you're going to be traveling alot and need something a little more durable, you might use the Audio Technica Atr2100 as it has a lifetime warranty.

Option 2: Stationary Podcaster

I like the sound of the SamsonQ2U a little better than the ATR2100. It doesn't have a lifetime warranty, but you're not moving it much.

Another option for the stationary podcaster on a semi-professional level is the mic I use the Electrovoice RE320

What Microphone Stand Should I Get for the Microphone?

If you are stationary (meaning you're using a room as your studio) check out the Samson MBA38 boom arm that can clamp on to a desk.

If you need to take down your gear or if you're traveling, check out the On Stage Combo Stand

Recording Co-Hosts or Interviews What Do I Need?

Why it Depends:

If they are in the room with you

I like the Focusrite 2i2 for two people or the Focusrite 8i8 for four people. You could also purchase a Zoom H6 (and be able to record anywhere)

If you're on a budget, then see the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD (for two people), or the UMC404HD for four people

Another option for recording up to four people in the room with you is the Rode Rodcaster pro

Shouldn't I Use a Mixer?

When it comes to mixer vs interface, a mixer allows you to adjust the audio (add bass, treble) where an interface you would do this in software later. Some people prefer interfaces as they are less confusing due to a generally smaller number of knobs.

If you want a mixer, one of the best values I feel is the Presonus AR8 USB 8 as it has up to four people, connects to your computer, AND it has a built-in recorder. If you are on a budget then you could check out Mackie PROFX8V2

Do I Need a Portable Recorder?

If you're traveling yes. My favorite is the Zoom H6 as it is super versatile. If all you need is a recording, you might check out the Zoom H1

I'm Going to Do All My Episodes on the Road

If you're traveling and only going to be recording you and a guest you might check out the Tascam DR-10X that you plug your microphone into. In this situation, you might look into the Rode Interview Microphone

My Guests/Co-hosts Are In Another Location

If you're on a budget you can use Skype and Ecam call recorder on the Mac, and Squadcast is my Favorite way of recording remote people no matter what the type of computer (you just have to use chrome).

Everyone is in the Same Room, but our guest is not...

Then you could use the Focusrite 2i2 and connect to the guest via Skype or Squadcast. If your co-host can join Squadcast as an individual (with their own computer) then make sure you and the co-host have even volume levels as you will be on the same channel.

How Much Storage Do I Need For My Media Host?

To figure out how much space you need, you need to know:

1. How often you will publish
2. How long your shows will be
3. What format

This short video tutorial helps you calculate any how much space you need https://libsyn.d.pr/XDpqmM

I did a podcast about different formats that explains stereo vs Mono vs 64 kbps vs 128 kbps at 4:29">https://overcast.fm/+IzZEC-P0/4:29

For more information on file formats, go to https://support.libsyn.com/kb/recommended-file-formats-encoding/

I've also created speadsheet that will calculate these for you.

Use the coupon code sopfree to get a free month at Libsyn.com

What Web Hosting Should I Use?

Here again, it depends. If all you need is a place for people to listen and subscribe to your show your media host often has a free website that will suffice.

Right now I'm a fan of Cooler Websites (My Goaddy Reseller) for many of my sites. Siteground starts at $4/month for their Wordpress hosting (which is $12/month after the first year)

Recording Podcasts on the Road

In this situation, it's best to understand the gear and what it does and then mix and match to create the system that suits you best

- - - If you're traveling and only going to be recording you and a guest you might check out the Tascam DR-10X that you plug your microphone into. In this situation, you might look into the Rode Interview Microphone. This is great for the person who is trying to eliminate carrying around a lot of gear
    - If you want people on separate tracks, but don't want a ton of gear the Rode SC6-L Mobile Interview Kit with Interface & 2 smartLav+ Microphones is great for iOs phone users.
    - The Zoom H6 is a sweet spot of not too large, and tons of versatility to record up to six people, and mix in sounds of an iPad if needed. No computer required. You would want to consider a headphone amplifier and headphones for everyone
    - The Rode Procaster is great for performing live shows and can be stored in a backpack or in one of the special cases.

Podcast Rewind: Podwrecked

I appeared on the Podwrecked show where I explained how I released an episode with a boo-boo, and what my options were to fix it. Podwrecked is about helping you and your podcast survive the ebb and flow of the podcast industry. Check it out at http://podwrecked.com/salvaging-your-podcast-with-dave-jackson/

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