If you’re new to podcasting and wondering what kind of recording equipment you will need, you’ll likely be facing the choice between a straightforward audio interface and dedicated podcast recorder or workstation. We’ll break down the differences between these two options to help get you started.
Audio Interfaces
If you own a relatively recent or efficient computer in terms of processing power and speed, and you plan to record in one location, an audio interface may be the easiest solution to getting your podcast recorded.
An audio interface simply converts the audio signal from your microphone into a digital format for it to be processed by your DAW (digital audio workstation), like Garage Band, Logic Pro, or Ableton. You plug the audio interface into your computer via USB cable and then hook up your mic into the interface’s mic input. The mic input feeds a preamp that boosts the signal to a usable level while an analog to digital converter (A/D) chip does the digital conversion. Most compact interfaces will offer at least two or more mic inputs along with one or more headphone jacks, allowing you to record and monitor your levels along with a cohost.
Advantages of Audio Interfaces
One advantage to this setup is that it’s often the most cost-effective option. With such a large selection of audio interfaces on the market and so many quality models for cheap prices, it’s often the best way to go, especially if you’re planning to record at one location in a home office/studio setting.
Audio interfaces are also advantageous if you like to record music. Interfaces tend to come with line and hi-Z inputs for instruments. They also usually have a phantom power option for condenser microphones, like the large diaphragm condenser mics that are commonly used for vocal recording. So, in this respect, they are the most versatile choice.
With an audio interface, you’re also recording straight to your DAW in real time. So, once you’re done with your recording, you’re instantly ready to mix without having to do a file transfer of any kind. There’s no need to rely on any external hardware other than your interface.
Disadvantages of Audio Interfaces
The biggest downside to the audio interface arrangement is that it can be less portable than a dedicated recorder, which tends to be more compact, travel friendly and sometimes battery powered. That said, there are cute little interfaces that pack a lot of functionality and are easy to take on the road. Still, given that audio interfaces rely on your computer’s DAW to record your podcast, they can limit your options should you choose to record away from your desktop.
Podcast Recorders
Most dedicated podcast recorders on today’s market feature an SD or MicroSD card slot that allow you to record your podcast straight to the unit, essentially freeing you from your computer while podcasting. At the same time, there are a lot of podcast recorders that can also act as audio interfaces, letting you record straight to your computer in the same way a dedicated audio interface would.
Podcast recorders usually tend to have between two and eight microphone inputs as well as line in and/or Bluetooth connectivity for external devices such as phones for when you have remote guests.
Podcast recorders can range from simple, small and compact field recorders to larger all-in-one podcasting workstations with faders, processing effects, sound pads, and more.
Advantages of Podcast Recorders
Standalone recorders, specifically compact ones, can be very liberating, especially if you like to record in different places and don’t want to be tied to a desktop. On the other hand, the bigger all-in-on podcast recording stations offer a one-stop-shop solution to all your podcast recording needs, streamlining your recording process and possibly saving you from having to do certain tasks on your DAW, such as applying low-cut filters and limiters or optimizing the sound profile for your specific microphone or vocal timbre. The bigger units also have faders that give you tactile control over all your levels and effects.
Disadvantages of Podcast Recorders
There aren’t many disadvantages to a standalone podcast recorder or workstation, since, as mentioned previously, many of the popular recorders tend to also work as audio interfaces should you decide to record to your DAW in real time. However, it does introduce an extra step. That is, if you’re recording to an SD card, you’ll eventually have to transfer the files to your DAW. And this is where you want to be careful; you’ll need to ensure that your recorder performs multitrack recording if you want each host, as well as the sound pads and external signals to each have their own track.
Finally, especially if you’re recording on the same desktop space each time and your recording needs are very basic, a podcast recording workstation may just take up unnecessary space.
Popular Podcasting Audio Interfaces
If you’re running a simple one or two-person podcast, a great quality yet very affordable interface option is the Focusrite Vocaster Two. Especially for beginners, the beauty of this model lies in its simplicity and sleek form factor. You’ll find two mic XLR inputs on the back, one for the host and one for the guest. Each speaker will also have their own headphone output and volume control. In addition, both guest and host can set their own gain levels as well as mute their mics when needed. If you’re worried about peaking, you can make use of the Auto Gain function, which will automatically set your gain level appropriately. Furthermore, since the unit features phantom power and preamps with over 70 dB of gain, it can boost any mic’s output to a strong signal.
The Vocaster Two features other essential basics as well, including the ability to invite remote guests by hooking up your phone to the interface via wire or Bluetooth. You’ll also be able to loopback audio from your computer or other external devices.
Another affordable and fun interface for podcasting is the TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO Creator. Given its easy navigation and intuitive design, it’s a perfect option for beginners starting out on their podcast journey.
There are two separate mic inputs on the The MiNiSTUDIO Creator. And the unit supports a bunch of fun sound features like audience cheering or clapping, which can be activated by the three trigger pads. You can also assign your own audio files to these pads using the dedicated software. (Note that the trigger pads cannot be used when connected to an iOS device). In addition, you can activate voice effects to enhance your broadcast.
Finally, we thought we should mention the Zen Quadro Synergy from Antelope, not only because it’s an incredibly powerful interface for podcasters, but also because it’s a killer device for podcasters who moonlight as musicians.
For podcasters and streamers, you’ll have up to 4 mic inputs, along with 75dB of gain. This means that you can power even the most hard to drive dynamic mics, like the Shure SM7B, without a cloudlifter. In addition, the bus-powered Zen Quadro Synergy features dual USB-C ports, letting you record to two separate devices at once, while also offering cross-routing, loopback and reverse charging.
For musicians, the Zen Quadro Synergy not only acts as a crystal-clear, premium quality interface for recording but can also be taken on the road for live performance. With complete standalone operation, it features 37 analog-modeled effects, letting you use the device as an FX box during live gigs. And the unit allows easy access to direct routing, preset recall, and mixer settings via its color display.
Popular Podcast Recorders and Workstations
The Zoom PodTrak P4 has become a classic amongst podcasters on the go. It’s affordable and easy to use, yet skillfully gets the job done. You’ll have 4 mic inputs, each with their own gain knobs and headphone outputs (with volume dials). In addition, the unit features 4 sound pads to activate preloaded sound effects or your own imported sound files, like intros and outros. Another important set of functions is the gain limiter and low-cut filter, which will prevent peaking and minimize unwanted low-end rumbles, saving you time in the post-production phase.
If you want to introduce a remote guest, you can plug in the P4’s companion Bluetooth adapter and connect wirelessly to your phone. (You can also do this via wired connection, though we’ve found that the Bluetooth option yields clearer sounding results).
The P4 is a multitrack recorder, meaning it will record each input as a separate track into the SDXC card. So, your mics, callers and sound pads will each have their own sound file to mix and edit in post-production. However, if you like to keep things simple, the P4 also records your podcast as a single stereo file should you decide to edit and mix it all on one track.
If you’re looking for a more robust and feature rich alternative to a simple podcast recorder like the P4 above, you can consider an all-on-one workstation, like the TASCAM Mixcast 4, or a more compact model like Rode’s RodeCaster Duo.
With the Mixcast 4, you can record up to four people in person via the XLR-1/4” connections, which accommodate all types of microphones. You’ll also have stereo line inputs for connections to external devices. Each podcast speaker will have their own headphone output; the unit also features a Talkback function that lets you speak to the participants privately over their headphones as well as remote, phone-in guests connected to the unit via wire or Bluetooth. On the unit you’ll find eight faders and eight sound pads which can activate eight banks of sounds. You can adjust levels between pads and switch sound pad banks while recording for access to more sounds.
If you only have two in-person speakers, perhaps the versatile RodeCaster Duo would be a more suitable option, especially given its compact size. This workstation is another fantastic all-in-one solution for those who enjoy recording music as well. Built for microphones as well as instruments, you’ll find a whole host of advanced processing and effects that can customize the sound profile to suit your specific mic or vocal timbre. The ultra-low noise and high gain preamps allow you to hook up hard to drive podcasting mics, like the classic Shure SM7B. And the studio quality processors, which include important functions like a high-pass filter, noise gate and de-esser will save you loads of time in the post production stage.
You can also expect six programmable smart pads to trigger audio files such as music, one shot sounds and special effects. You can assign four channels to the physical faders, while navigating the virtual channels on the large, crystal-clear screen.
You can choose between stereo and multitrack recording to capture your podcast onto a microSD or external drive. Or you can use the mixer as an audio interface to record straight to your computer.
Deciding between a dedicated audio interface and podcast recording device all comes down to your recording needs and personal preferences. If you enjoy the tactile and immediate experience of a podcasting workstation that allows you to physically use faders and activate your sounds and music in real time, this approach can be not only a time saver, but also lots of fun. That said, if you’re not planning on moving around, and you’re looking for a particularly simple and affordable podcast setup without any bells and whistles, a straightforward audio interface may be your best bet.
For more information about the podcasting products listed, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
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