A quality microphone is the most important investment.
Recommended types:
USB Microphones (Beginner-friendly):
Plug directly into your computer. Great for most podcasts.
XLR Microphones (Advanced):
Require an audio interface; offer higher audio quality and more control.
💡 Tip: USB mics are more than enough for interviews, academic podcasts, and remote recording.
Use closed-back headphones to prevent sound leakage during recording.
They help you monitor your voice, volume, and background noise.
These inexpensive tools dramatically improve audio quality:
Pop Filter: Reduces plosive sounds (p, t, k).
Foam Windscreen: Minimizes breath noise.
Boom Arm / Desk Stand: Keeps the mic stable and close to your mouth.
Audio Interface (if using XLR mics): Converts analog to digital audio.
Record in a quiet, carpeted room
Avoid large echoey spaces
Close windows, doors, and turn off fans/AC
Add soft items (blankets, curtains, cushions)
Sit away from bare walls
Put a rug under your recording area
Keep 10–15 cm between your mouth and the mic
Stay centered, speak slightly above or below the mic to reduce noise
Maintain consistent volume
🔊 Always record 10 seconds of “room tone” — helpful for noise removal in editing.
Do a quick audio test to check:
Volume level
Background noise
Microphone placement
Recording settings (mono/stereo, sample rate, gain)
💡 Running a 20–30 second test can prevent re-recording an entire episode.
