Good audio quality is crucial for podcasts because it lowers barriers between listeners and content. Clear audio with smooth edits help listeners follow the story or interview and makes for a much better experience. Good audio conveys a level of professionalism and attention to detail that attracts and retains listeners. Poor audio quality on the other hand can cause listeners to tune out. It’s frustrating trying to understand a conversation that is poorly miked or or has bad levels and being distracted by background noise or clumsy edits.
Audio Quality
Does it sound good?
Tips & Tricks
Be careful about audio “pops” from plosives, the letters t, k, p, d, g and b. (P’s are a main culprit.) These are caused by a rush of air from your mouth that can overload the microphone capsule. Avoid these by keeping a comfortable distance from the mic, buying a “pop filter” or by positioning the mic slightly off to the side instead of directly in front of your mouth.If you can’t avoid unwanted background sound, try a noise cancellation filter in a software package like “iZotope RX”. In addition, volume levels of recordings in the studio and out in the field can vary. When editing, you’ll need to make sure your levels remain relatively constant throughout an episode. You don’t want huge volume swings.Burning Question
Can I use silence? We live in a loud world where people are bombarded by audio and video content all day. So it’s okay to use moments of silence in order to make a point, convey emotion, build tension or add atmosphere. Don’t be afraid of some quiet.Common Mistake
Listening on the same device all the time. Before publishing it’s good to listen to your final edit on headphones, on speakers, through your phone and in the car to get a sense of how it sounds from the perspective of different listeners. Then make changes if you need to.Links
- Tool: Adobe Podcast AI. Clean up your audio for free. This allows you to convert low quality voice recordings to sound like they are recorded in a professional podcasting studio.
- Article: Why Podcast Quality is so Important and How to Improve Yours
- Article: Podcast audio quality matters more than you think: Here’s why
TIPS from OUR Network
- You can record directly on your phone, but an external mic will result in much better sound quality.
- Let the audio “breathe” — don’t cut out every bit of silence.
- Audio filters can do amazing things, but don’t depend on them. Try to get a quality recording from the start.