Podcasts have risen in popularity over recent years. From personal hobbyists to professional production companies, it’s a medium enjoyed by millions worldwide. Whether you’re looking to dive into the world of podcasting or improve your skills, understanding how to set up multiple microphones can drastically improve the quality of your broadcasts. This guide will illustrate why and how to use multiple microphones, what equipment you may need, and best practices to follow for a successful multi-mic setup. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to podcast-producer proficiency in no time.
Why Use Multiple Microphones
Before delving into the setup procedures, let’s explore the benefits of using multiple microics for podcasting. If you have more than one speaker/presenter, each should have their own mic. This helps maintain consistently balanced audio levels throughout your recordings, as each presenter can adjust their microphone to their speaking levels and styles.
Additionally, using more than one microphone gives you an added level of control and adaptability during post-production. It allows you to manipulate individual tracks – lowering, increasing, or cutting someone’s audio without affecting the rest of the recording.
Choosing the Right Microphone
Microphone selection ranges from dynamic to condenser types. Dynamic microphones are generally better for podcasting as they’re more durable, less sensitive to ambient noise, and don’t require phantom power like condenser mics do. Some recommended options include the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB, Shure SM58, and Heil PR-40.
Remember, the quality of your microphone is arguably more important than the quantity. One excellent mic trumps several poor-quality options every time.
Tools and Equipment Needed
After acquiring your microphones, you’ll need a few more pieces of audio equipment:
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Audio Interface or Mixer: An audio interface converts analog sound (from your mics) into a digital signal your computer can understand. It also allows you to control individual volume levels for each mic. For podcasts with numerous guests or tricky audio setups, a mixer might be more convenient, providing more control over your sound.
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Headphones: Closed-back headphones are perfect for podcasters as they allow you to monitor your sound while blocking out external noise.
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Cables: For each microphone, you’ll need an XLR cable to connect to your audio interface or mixer.
Setting up the Multi-Mic System
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Connect Your Equipment: Start by connecting each microphone to your audio interface or mixer using your XLR cables. Each microphone will connect to an ‘input’ slot on your interface/mixer.
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Adjust Levels: After your mics are plugged in, you should adjust the input level for each microphone. Speak into each mic as if you were recording your podcast, and adjust the many knobs to ensure the audio isn’t too loud (distorted) or too quiet.
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Computer Configuration: Connect your audio interface/mixer to your computer using a USB cable. Open your recording software (like Audacity or Adobe Audition) and identify your audio interface in your settings.
Best Practices for Recording with Multiple Microphones
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Use Pop Filters: A pop filter set in front of your microphone will help minimize ‘plosive’ sounds, those audible breathy sounds and pops when you produce ‘p’s, ‘b’s and ‘t’ sounds.
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Optimize Your Environment: Make sure to record in a quiet, echo-free environment. A room with carpets, curtains, and soft furniture is ideal because these can absorb sound and prevent echo.
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Stay Consistent: Maintain a consistent distance between your mouth and the microphone. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a fist-sized gap from the microphone.
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Test Your Setup: Always check the functionality of each microphone before recording. A quick sound check can help detect issues like imbalance between mics or extraneous noise.
In conclusion, setting up a multi-mic system for podcast recording might seem daunting at the outset, but once you understand the why and how, it becomes easier. Upgrading your podcasting setup to a multi-mic system significantly improves audio quality, adding an air of professionalism that can help your podcast rank better and reach a larger audience. Following these steps, combined with regular practice, will ensure you’re well on your way to broadcasting top-quality podcasts.
