Why Audio Quality Matters
If you are a podcast enthusiast or audio production geek, you understanding how important good quality audio production is. In the world of podcasting, there’s nothing more critical than audio quality and a seamless production process. In a recent episode of the Amplify podcast, industry experts Quinn Greenhaus and Dan Hughley joined our host Matty Staudt, and shared golden insights on how to elevate podcast production. Here’s what they had to say.
Pre-Production Testing
When it comes to podcasting, audio quality is everything. A clean, high-quality audio recording not only makes for a better listening experience but also sets a professional tone for your podcast, separating you from the amateurs.
Quinn Greenhaus, a podcast producer, sound designer, and audio engineer, and Dan Hughley, a podcaster, audio engineer, and pro audio marketing professional, emphasize the importance of pre-production and testing equipment. They advise podcasters to conduct tech checks with guests and ensure that audio levels are correct before recording. Avoiding over-modulation and achieving a consistent sound for every episode are also crucial.
Enhancing Audio Quality
The experts shared some tips for improving audio quality. Quinn suggests using software like De-Clicker to remove mouth clicks, a common issue when recording. She also advises podcasters to be conscious of harsh S sounds, which can be minimized by slightly turning to the side when speaking into the microphone.
Dan emphasizes the importance of listening back to your recordings in multiple environments. This helps identify any audio issues that might not be apparent in one listening context but become glaringly obvious in another.
Recording and Editing Tips
When recording, ensuring each speaker is on a separate track can significantly ease the editing process. Quinn and Dan also recommend using a scripted approach to editing audio recordings.
In terms of equipment, Quinn suggests starting with a budget-friendly USB microphone that offers an upgrade to an XLR option. Dan adds that testing your equipment before recording is crucial to avoid any unexpected surprises.
Outsourcing vs. DIY
Outsourcing podcast editing and mastering can save time, especially for podcasters who are not technically inclined. However, it’s crucial to vet potential editors thoroughly to ensure they can meet your podcast’s specific needs and maintain its quality.
On the other hand, if you prefer the DIY route, there are tools available to help you produce high-quality podcasts. Quinn and Dan mention software like Audition, Hindenburg, and Descript as useful tools for editing and mastering.
The Final Touches
The final step in podcast production is mastering. This process ensures that your podcast is loud enough for broadcast and maintains a consistent audio level throughout. Dan recommends aiming for a loudness level of -18 LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale), a standard measure of audio levels in the broadcasting industry.
In conclusion, producing a high-quality podcast involves careful planning, the right equipment, and an understanding of sound design. With these expert tips, you can raise your podcast production game and create a podcast that stands out in the crowded podcasting landscape. So go ahead and unleash your podcasting potential!