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Chapter 4: Best Practices for Recording
Learning Objectives
Soundproofing Strategies for Recording
Remote Recording Options
Best Practices for Recording {video tutorials}
Chapter 4: Best Practices for Recording
Podcast audiences deserve to hear good audio quality.
Creators of podcasters can make that happen even on a budget but it does take time and attention to basic soundproofing, use of an external microphone, and practicing proper recording techniques.
Studies show that audiences tune out uneven or muddy sounds so audio distractions like hissing or popping p’s or echo-y rooms are not only irritating but reflect badly upon the podcaster and what they are trying to say.
In addition, researchers at the Mind & Society Center at USC have found that the quality of audio even influences whether you believe what you hear. “The findings are significant amid the recent rise of fake news and public distrust in science,” said co-director Norbert Schwarz.
How To Soundproof For Recording
A professional audio studio has soundproofing to deaden noise, but how do you know if other places where you would like to record, need soundproofing?
First, you can safely assume that every environment will need some help in blocking out external noise. Another good test is if you clap your hands and hear an echo then the sound is reverberating and you need to put in some acoustic treatment.
Fortunately, it’s not hard to create your own quiet recording space at home, on the road, or wherever you are very inexpensively.
Professional journalists traveling on the campaign trail have long created their own mini-recording studio on the road.
NPR national political correspondent Don Gonyea builds pillow tents in his hotel room to voice his stories. He’s been kind enough to provide some photos and a video sharing his secrets of how to deaden the sound in a room by creating sound barriers.
When there’s no time to build a pillow fort, reporters improvise by using a blanket or jacket over their heads or recording inside a car (assuming there’s no traffic noise). Transom offers tips on home recording as does Soundproof Advice.
Broadcast Professionals Working At Home
When the global pandemic forced media professionals to work from home, they improvised by creating recording studios with makeshift acoustic treatments. In Seattle, KUOW public radio news reporter Casey Martin tweeted his version of a home recording studio.
BBC Presenter Sasha Twining uses a portable molded foam vocal booth that avoids having to attach acoustic tiles to home walls. You can find these portable microphone isolation shields online for a variety of prices.
Create Your Own Home Recording
Podcasters can create their own at-home recording environment by finding a smaller space without echo — a room or closet with carpet, draperies and low ceilings to soften any sound bouncing. Avoid areas with a lot of t