Podcasts remain incredibly popular, drawing in creators and guests alike. Whether you're a host or a guest, preparation goes beyond your talking points—your audio quality matters just as much for a professional result.
Common questions include: Is it better to use my phone's mic or a Bluetooth headset? Should I record the podcast myself? How do I set up my phone for optimal recording? Should I invest in a dedicated microphone, and which one?
We consulted Andrew Marino, Senior Sound Engineer, for his expert advice on delivering top-notch audio as a podcast guest. Here's what he shared.
For live podcasts, where editing isn't possible, prioritize call quality. In most cases, your phone's built-in mic outperforms Bluetooth headsets. We've tested countless headphones in our Edge reviews, and none match the average smartphone microphone.
Watch out for wireless headphone battery life—you don't want them dying mid-recording. Wired headsets are safer, offering reliable connections and often superior mic quality. Avoid speakerphone; hold the phone to your ear or use a headset.
Test both options beforehand: record yourself on each and compare the playback.
Yes, for non-live podcasts. Record locally and send the file to the host—it ensures far better quality than relying on their Zoom or call capture. Inform the host in advance.
On Zoom, ask guests to record separately via phone or another device. Use built-in apps like Voice Memos (iOS) or Recorder (Pixel Android), or download Rode Reporter for excellent results.
Producers often suggest holding the phone to your ear like a call—it's designed for voice pickup and foolproof.
For dedicated local recording (not your call device), position the phone 6-12 inches from your mouth, such as on a stack of books or desk stand.
Enable airplane mode to silence notifications, and note that incoming calls may pause the app.
If it's a one-off, your phone mic suffices. But for frequent appearances, a USB mic delivers noticeably better sound and plugs directly into phones or computers.
Budget matters, but I recommend the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone (~$99). It's versatile for podcasts, live use, and voice-overs; upgradeable via XLR, and outperforms condensers like the Blue Yeti by rejecting background noise for a pro sound.
A versatile content creation microphone for live performance, podcasting, and voice-overs. $99.
