March 25, 2022
This episode looks at when - if ever- it might be appropriate to record your podcast using Zoom, the popular online meeting service. I compared some audio recorded with a USB mic (Samson C01UPro) direct to my computer with audio from a Zoom recording using the same mic and computer. Take a listen and see how you think they compare.
I have a definite opinion on this. But you'll have to listen to this VERY short episode to find out what that is :-).
February 10, 2022
Last time, I tested some wired lavalier (lapel) mics for improving Zoom call audio quality. And I promised I'd do a wireless test for this episode. So here we "go" (:-P). I tested the RODE Wireless Go II microphone system. Notice I didn't say "lavalier system." That's because the Go II transmitter boxes have built-in microphones and clips on them. So you really don't need the traditional lavalier mic that clips to a tie or lapel. You can clip one of these boxes on as well. That keeps it truly wireless in that you don't have to worry about a wire going from a lavalier to a transmitter box. But you CAN buy a separate lavalier. I got a RODE Lavalier Go to do the tests.
This episode has audio samples from using the Go II on a Panasonic Lumix G7 camera, an iPhone 11, and a Zoom call. That's the cool thing about this system. It can be used on pretty much any device - computer, mobile device and of course, a camera.
January 6, 2022
After someone asked me for a recommendation on a lavalier/lapel microphone to improve the audio quality of Zoom calls, I got ahold of a couple and did a test. You'll hear the audio in this episode!
I used only wired lavs for this episode because it turns out wireless is hard :-). I'll do a wireless lav test for the next episode.
For this test, I used the MOVO M1 and the Sennheiser XS USB-C. Both are super inexpensive.
Take a listen to the result here in the episode, along with my recommendation.
November 2, 2021
The Blue Yeti is an excellent USB microphone popular with podcasters, and other folks recording voices for any reason. But for some reason, a lot of recordings made on Yeti mics sound terrible. Why is this? I think I know. And here are ways to fix things quickly and easily so your Yeti can make you sound much more professional.
September 8, 2021
Now that you have the mic(s), the recording interface and the software, you'll need some additional things to be able to use your gear. Here is a list of those accessories, along with some suggestions.
June 30, 2021
What software should you use to record and produce your audio? This episode gives you some ideas, starting with a free program! So you can get started right now without having to buy anything. I also talk about Reaper and Adobe Audition.
May 31, 2021
In part 3 of this series, we talk about microphones and recording interfaces.
April 12, 2021
This follows on - finally! - from the last episode, which was part 1 (yes, I left folks hanging. sorry!) of a 5-part series showing you how to set up a home recording studio. This episode talks about how to limit or eliminate noise of all kinds, which is arguably the most important factor in recording pro audio.
January 13, 2015
This is the first in a series of posts designed to walk you through how to create a computer-based home recording studio. We talk about what you'll need to buy, and even how to use free software for many tasks. The series will also show you how to get the best possible audio for the lowest possible cost. Best of all, we try our best not to use too much overly technical audio jargon. WE try to make it so easy that anyone can understand it.
January 12, 2015
This is an excellent microphone for home recording, especially for vocals/voice-over purposes. It gives professional sounding results for only about $149. This review contains audio samples and comparisons with a more expensive mic.
