How To Set Up The Best Podcast Studio At Home

The pandemic has seen a boom in podcasts – both new ones, and new series’ of old and loved podcasts. Many have found their work looks different now, and podcasts are an interesting new medium to find work in. Others have experienced having more time off than ever and discovered making podcasts as a great way to fill the time. 

Whatever you are experiencing, if you’ve turned to making podcasts, you may find that creating one comes with some issues you weren’t expecting. Like: what is actually the best way to record a podcast? And for those seasoned in the podcast game: how on earth do you make a podcast from home?

Luckily, making a podcast from home isn’t actually as hard as you’d think. Not too much is needed, and you can definitely get the equipment for a low cost if you’re on a budget. If it takes renting a commercial flatbed truck to get all the equipment you need to your home, you’re doing something wrong. In fact, all you need are these things…

Microphone

This one shouldn’t come as a surprise. Of course, you’re going to need a microphone. Otherwise, how will anyone hear your thoughts?

When it comes to choosing a microphone, there are several factors to consider. Of course, price is one, but also microphones will vary depending on sound quality. 

Image credit: Pxhere

But, to be honest, to those just starting (and maybe on a bit of a tighter budget!) you can simply record on your phone. Beware, the sound quality will be a bit dodgy, but as long as you’ve got interesting things to say – and pro marketing skills – you can draw in the listeners. 

Once you’ve got a bit of a following, though, definitely invest in some proper microphones. The money will be worth it; people might not want to listen if the sound quality is poor. 

Recording Software

Your podcast, (recorded on your brand new microphone!), will be one long monologue unless you invest in some recording software. With software, you will be able to cut out all the unnecessary bits where you stray off-topic, or a joke that doesn’t seem so funny a few hours later. 

If you want lots of tools available to you, getting something like Logic Pro or ProTools will make you a podcasting wizard. However, you can get free recording software – like Garageband and Audacity – which works just as well. Really, when it comes to software, the success of your podcast will be down to your editing skills, not the software. 

Sound Absorbers

By absorbing sound in your home studio, you will get crisper audio for your podcast. You can achieve this with sound-absorbing blocks, or literally just home-found items. 

Try to use a room that has wallpaper, carpet and curtains. These are natural sound absorbers. But to increase absorption, you can hang up towels, duvets and blankets. Cheap as!

Mixer

A mixer is what will get your sound from the mic, into the computer. A basic mixer is all you need really, but more advanced ones can be purchased that offer special effects. 

Image credit: Pxhere

If you run a podcast that features guests, look out for mixers with mix-minus features. This allows audio from two channels to be kept separate. This way, you can edit two people’s audio separately. It’ll make your job easier in the long-run. 

Take these tips and podcast to your heart’s delight!