One element that we CAN NOT do without when recording a podcast–is the microphone!!! Now without going totally insane tech-wise, this is only a quick possible discussion about what mic you may need or have access to. If it is just the microphone on your computer to start out…fine. The real star of a podcast is you and your idea. Don’t let equipment, cost or negativity get in your way. As I sit here writing this, I’m reminded of a few lines in Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park. George is singing that he has nothing to say, well, ‘nothing that has not been said,’ and Dot responds, ‘not by you!’ With that being said, don’t let your lack of equipment or what you perceive as unoriginal content sway you from getting in there and making content.
There are literally thousands of mics one could use, so trying to choose just one might be an impossible task for this #techtuesday. Stephanie Vermillion suggests that new podcasters and single-host podcasters may opt for a USB mic that can be plugged directly into a laptop. She also notes that if you plan on having any guests or need multiple microphones, you should opt for an XLR set-up. Adorama has an excellent article on different mics and what is best for what application. Keep in mind, they are also a retailer and supply internal links. Always shop around for the best pricing. They do explain in just a few sentences the difference between Condenser versus Dynamic mics. Condensers pick up quite a lot of sound, will probably need to be mounted and you will have to balance it out with room sounds. A dynamic mic can be handled and is generally very ‘robust’ as Adorama calls it. The dynamic mic also tends to pick up more of the low end when in closer contact with the sound source.
We use the Shure SM7B, a dynamic XLR for @higheredjobs. Take a listen to our latest podcast and let me know what you think!
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