Click the icon below to learn more about the basics of sound recording
Microphone Audio Micro by IO-Images, used under CC0
Click the icon below to book a recording session or consultation
Calendar Dates Schedule by IO-Images, used under CC0
Reservations are limited to four (4) hours per day, per person. Click on the links in this box for more information; in addition to these policies, the studio is subject to the same terms and conditions outlines in the University's IT Policies. The Sound Booth policies are subject to change without notice.
Blue-microphone-2740 by Scott Ritchie, used under CC BY 2.0 Blue Yeti Pattern Selector
Recordings today use microphones, audio interfaces, and a computer program. The words and music made into a microphone are converted into an electronic signal and are then carried through a cable into a computer program, which reads and understands the signal as the sound made. Because it can understand the signal, your computer program is then able to play back your sound and allows you editing capabilities.
Different microphones can pick up sound from different directions. When considering which microphone you might want to use, it's important to consider where you or your subject should be in relation to the microphone. The Sound Booth at Irwin houses two microphones that can detect and record various sounds from different angles, but it's important to recognize what kind of sounds you'll be recording so you use the appropriate microphone.
Take note of the setting symbols, which you can select on the back of the Blue Yeti microphone.
This links the computer to sound inputs/outputs, allowing them to "talk" to one another for recording and playback purposes.
Blue Yeti Multi-Option Condenser Microphone
This microphone allows choice among three polar patterns, or the direction(s) from which it picks up sound:
Click on the images for more detailed views.
Benefits: You don’t need to rely on anyone else to record your episodes, and you’re building a reputation as the authority on your subject. The podcast is also exclusively yours, so you can make calls on sponsorship and monetization. And you don’t need to split the profits with anyone.
Challenges: Perhaps the most intimidating style of show for the beginner podcaster. One of the biggest challenges of the solo show is getting over the feeling that you’re ‘talking to yourself’ and realising that you’re actually talking to the listener.
Benefits: A great way around the ‘mic fright’ or recording alone is to chat on the show with someone else. If you find the right co-host you have someone to bounce off, debate, or even mock (don’t be too mean!). Some co-hosted podcasts have great chemistry between the presenters. This can create a great listening experience.
Challenges: Not only do you need to set aside time to record, but that time must also be suitable for your co-host. There’s also the question of ownership: who’s podcast is it, do you split any future income 50/50? And what happens if your co-host loses interest or becomes unavailable in the future?
Benefits: Talking to your heroes. Doing an interview show gives you the opportunity to have a chat with someone you’ve always looked up to. On top of this, your guests will have their own audiences who may listen to the interview and end up subscribing to your show. If done right, you can really grow an audience this way.
Challenges: Interviewing is a skill that you’ll need to hone through practice, so don’t approach the A-listers in your field straight away. You’ll need to constantly find and approach potential guests, schedule interviews, and rely on others to show up (in person or digitally). You also need to rely on technology (like Skype) to work properly
Roundtable: One regular host and a number of guests, talking through one specific topic
Documentary: A narrator walks you through a range of interviews, conversations, and on-location clips to paint a picture
Docu-Drama: A mix between drama and documentary. Offering learning and info, but in an entertaining way
This information is from ThePodcastHost.com
Click the photo above to explore ThePodcastHost.com, a website that describes all the essentials of starting and maintaining a podcast.
For more resources and ideas, check out Transom.org, a combination "performance space, an open editorial session, an audition stage, a library, and a hangout." Transom is administrated by Atlantic Public Media (APM), a non-profit organization which aims to serve public broadcasting--everything from program production to distribution-- through training, creative support, and experimental approaches. To get started on Transom.org, first check out their Getting Started page, learn about techniques, or browse the ideas archive.
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