3 Microphone Techniques for Podcasters

09 December 2011 | Blog | 1 Comment

These days, getting a podcast up and going is deceptively easy. So easy, in fact, that you might forget to work on a critical little thing called microphone technique. Audio professionals from singers to disc jockeys to voice-over specialists know that working the mic correctly can be the difference between getting all you can out of your voice or sounding like you’re podcasting from inside a refrigerator in your parents basement.

Find the Sweet Spot
In audio circles, they refer to the best spot to place your mouth when speaking into a microphone as its sweet spot. Finding the sweet spot for your particular piece of equipment is necessary to get the most sound quality out of it. In the absence of information to the contrary, initially try talking into your microphone from about six inches away. Make a few test recordings of dry vocals, with no special effects added, experimenting with different locations, making notes as you go. You may find that your mic works better from closer, farther, or maybe slightly to one side.

Popping
It won’t take long to notice that the letters B and P coming out of your mouth make a popping sound when recorded. Not to worry. This strange little anomaly of the English language can be alleviated by tilting the mic slightly away from your mouth or by adding a pop filter to the setup. These inexpensive screens go between you and the microphone to cut down on the popping sounds. Remember, you might not notice them at all until you listen to a playback, at which point you realize how maddeningly distracting they are.

Your Voice
As a podcaster, you should get used to thinking of yourself as an audio professional, and your voice is one of the most important tools in your chosen trade. While genetics largely determine whether you have a pleasing or annoying speaking tone, a few sessions with a vocal coach could go a long way towards making sure you retain listeners rather than send them leaping for the “off” button. Drinking hot tea with honey and taking a few minutes to warm up your vocal cords with speaking or singing exercises will also help insure you sound your best when recording.

Just remember, if you want to be a podcasting professional, proper attention paid to microphone techniques help you sound like it.

The Hartman Media Company Team

 

 

 

 

 

Flickr / Flabber DeGaskey

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