As shelter-in-place becomes the common place for many people around the world, options for recording podcasts have become limited. Many people have started using Zoom in order to continue creating content during this unpredictable time.
Zoom is an easy-to-use video conferencing program with recording capabilities. It’s not the best option in terms of quality, however, it is a good alternative for people who presently, cannot leave their homes. Recently, we have edited more projects from podcasters using Zoom and wanted to share some tips on how to get the best recordings possible.
1: Setup Zoom for Multitrack
Zoom can record every participant’s audio track separately. This helps the post-production process immensely. Let’s say the host is asking the guest a question and their dog starts to bark. We would be able to remove the bark if the audio was recorded on separate tracks. Make sure this option is selected by going to Settings > Recording and select the Record a separate audio file for each participant option.
2: Close Your Apps
Before starting your Zoom meeting, close out any unneeded apps. This will help eliminate unnecessary strain on your computer and network and help to delivery a better quality product.
3: Using a Microphone or Headset
Your guest may not always be in the most ideal recording environment. So, having them use a wired headset or connecting a microphone to their computer can help improve their vocal quality and eliminate room noise and other distractions that can be picked up by the internal computer/device microphone.
4: Recording Locally
Software like Zoom and Skype are great and really come in handy in times like these. Sometimes however, there can be network and processing issues which can cause the audio to glitch and sound robotic. One way to avoid this (and to improve overall audio quality) is to have each participant record their audio from their own location. If your guest is using a USB mic on their end for example, they can record their voice using their preferred audio recording program. Once the recording is complete, we can replace their Zoom audio with their locally recorded audio for a crisp and clean sound. This technique is also called, tape sync.
Suggested USB Microphones: Samson Q2U | ATR-21000
5: Headphones
Using headphones helps to eliminate vocal delay or echo which can sometimes occur.
If you have any additional questions on how to setup and use Zoom, please feel free to contact us.