academy | Podcasting
Hear and now
rom studio microphones and wireless lavaliers to shotgun mics, choosing the right audio equipment is the first step
Podmic USB adds digital connectivity for recording directly into a computer. Rode’s PSA1+ professional studio arm allows the microphone to be suspended in front of a presenter, adjusted easily and moved aside when necessary. The more affordable PSA1 is another option, as well as the new low-profile LPA1. Amaran has entered the audio market with its compact microphone designed for studio-style sound, bringing the brand’s creator-focused approach beyond lighting. Amaran cuts the mic cord to bring wireless freedom, as a USB-C receiver provides 2.4GHz wireless transmission up to 50m⁄ 164ft and battery life is 60 hours. It also works via USB-C if you want to plug it in. Innovation includes standard and AI noise reduction built in. There’s also an automatic limiter, direct headphone monitoring and physical controls for gain, mute and noise reduction with even more advanced settings available through an app. Out of sight Not every podcast wants microphones in the picture and shotgun mics offer an alternative, particularly for interviews designed to resemble TV programmes.
towards a professional podcast. For creators building a studio around a computer, a USB microphone can be convenient, eliminating the need for a separate audio interface. However, XLR microphones remain attractive where individual channels, gain control and pro mixing are important. The key is to give every presenter their own microphone rather than attempting to capture an entire conversation with one device positioned in the middle of the table. Mic placement also affects the look of the production. Some presenters embrace the classic radio-studio aesthetic, with microphones in shot. Others prefer less visible sound solutions. The mic you are most likely to have seen is the Rode Podmic, as it’s become a true modern classic. This broadcast-style dynamic microphone is designed for close- up speech recording, delivering a rich, controlled sound while rejecting much of the unwanted noise from the room. The original Podmic connects via XLR to an audio interface or mixer, while the
Sennheiser’s legendary MKH 416 is a familiar choice for pro dialogue recording, while the compact MKE 600 is another option. For a seated interview, a suitable directional microphone can be positioned just outside the top of the frame, aimed towards the speaker’s mouth. This keeps the set visually clean, although careful positioning and decent room acoustics are essential. Soft furnishings, curtains and acoustic panels can improve recordings more than an expensive mic upgrade. Wireless lav systems are ideal for podcasts involving demonstrations, cooking, workshops or presenters who move around the studio. The Rode Wireless Pro or Go, DJI Mic 3 and Sennheiser Profile Wireless are examples of compact systems that allow mics to be attached discreetly to clothing. Many modern wireless systems offer 32-bit float onboard recording, providing a valuable backup. To maintain the cleanest appearance, a miniature lavalier can be concealed beneath the user’s clothing, although avoiding fabric rustle takes practice. Look for Rycote stickies. Whatever you use, recording each speaker to a separate track makes editing much easier. Always monitor through headphones, keep microphones close to the speakers, avoid excessive gain and leave sensible headroom for sudden changes in volume.
Pod almighty An XLR mic like this Sennheiser MKH 416 (top right) is a pro option, while Amaran Mics (above right) are USB-C and wireless. The Rode Podmic and studio arm (left) is a popular combo
Many wireless systems offer 32-bit float onboard recording for a valuable backup
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November/December 2026
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