Remote recording became widespread over the last two years, and seems to have become an established practice. When it comes to podcasting, remote recording supported by audio transcription services allows you to take advantage of many opportunities. The main benefit is that it does away with the need to travel, and allows you to interview people in any location with an internet connection, and bring multiple speakers together on the same show.
How to Get the Best Results when Recording a Podcast Remotely
If you are recording a podcast remotely, you need to choose the right tools and software based on the needs of your niche and goals. Here’s what you need to know to maximize audio quality and get the best results:
- Podcast format: If you are starting out, it’s likely that you’ve already decided on your podcast format – interview, solo show, panel, narrative or other type. Make sure you choose the right setup, equipment needs, and software features necessary to meet your needs.
- Equipment for remote recording:
- Recording software – To record your remote podcast, use remote recording software. There are many options available with impressive features. Quality software allows you to record multiple hours of high-quality audio and video interviews.
- Microphone – Invest in a quality microphone with a pop filter to minimize harsh ‘p’ and ‘b’ sounds. Plug-and-play USB microphones are cost-effective option but if you are concerned about sound quality, choose an XLR mic. your listeners will have a great experience if the host audio is clear, even if your guest does not have a high quality mic.
- Headphones: Both host and guests require headphones when recording. Using headsets is essential to prevent audio bleed or any unintended sounds that can impact your audio. Wearing headphones or earbuds will prevent your microphone and your guest’s from picking up such sounds.
- Recording space: Make sure you choose a quiet environment to record your podcast and ask your guest to do so too. Background noises made by fans, air conditioners, refrigerators and notifications on a phone and computer can affect audio quality. Recording in a room with a carpeted floor will reduce echo.
- Audio vs video: Podcasts are extremely versatile, whether audio or video. Users can consume audio wherever and whenever they like such as when they are jogging, driving, etc. This is not possible with video. However, video episodes are the best option if you want to publish your interviews to YouTube or social media. Also, even if you don’t intend to publish video, using some sort of video feed can help you establish rapport with your guest. Popular software options like Zoom and Riverside.fm can provide professional-looking, locally-recorded audio and video files that won’t be impacted by internet connection drops.
- Consider your guest’s setup: The ideal situation would be one where your guest has the same set-up and facilities as you do. Share recording best practices with them. Make sure they are recording in a quiet environment that has a soft surface to minimize echo. They should use headphones and if they don’t have a mic, recommend that they use headphones with a built-in mic for optimum audio quality. Remind them to avoid walking around or driving while recording and to speak clearly into the mic. Both you and your guests need to make sure microphone, headphones, camera, etc are working properly before the session.
- Edit your episodes: Editing your podcast is an important but challenging task. Fortunately, there is software to help you do it. Audacity and Descript are popular podcast editing options. The editing process involves removing parts of the interview including audio editing (removing mistakes, ‘ums’, long pauses, filtering out the noise, pops, clicks and other unwanted sounds), inserting clear beginnings and endings (or intro and outros), and adding music if needed. Editing may also involve reducing an episode to a more handy size.
Leverage Audio Transcription Services to Boost Online Visibility
These best practices can help you record remote podcasts efficiently. Podcast transcription can help you grow your audience and make it accessible to people with hearing impairments and people with English as a second language. You can also repurpose your transcript content into blogs and articles and much more, and better demonstrate your expertise. The support of a competent audio transcription service provider can go a long way in improving your SEO by making it visible online.
At MOS, we provide quality audio transcription services for various industries. Our dedicated team will provide reliable support to meet your required turnaround time. To discuss your requirements, call (800)-670-2809.
