Recording a podcast alone is straightforward—just a microphone and a laptop can get you started in minutes. But what about when you bring a guest into the mix?
Setting up a podcast for two people involves more complexity but can yield more engaging and dynamic content. With the right equipment and setup, you can create a professional studio experience at home, ensuring high-quality audio and a smooth recording session.
This guide will provide the essential steps and tips for achieving the perfect podcast setup for two, making the process seamless and enjoyable.
Key Takeaways Upfront
- 🎙️ Achieve professional-quality audio for two-person podcasts by using separate microphones and proper recording software.
- 🏠 Ensure a quiet recording space with minimal background noise for the best sound quality, using noise-canceling tools if necessary.
- ⚙️ Invest in key accessories like headphone splitters, surge protectors, and quality headphones to enhance the recording experience and maintain equipment organization.
The Pros And Cons Of In-Person Recording
Before we delve into the ideal setup for podcasting with a guest, it’s worth noting the advantages and disadvantages of recording in person.
If you’ve already done a few recordings, then you know that recording in person is much more complicated than using an online conference software such as Zoom. It’s also much more expensive with the right podcasting equipment and there is a lot more work upfront to get it right.
- Popular video conferencing service.
- Supports virtual meetings, webinars, and collaborative work.
- Provides both free and premium plans.
Even though it will be more expensive and a bit fiddly, nothing quite beats podcast recording with a guest in person.
You will also find that recording in person feels much more natural and less artificial, as you can read the social cues a lot easier for a guest when you see them in person and in the same room.
You will also likely experience some lag or delay when conducting remote interviews or recording with a guest over the Internet.
Nothing is more annoying than having to wait a few seconds for your guests to answer your question or vice versa or to repeat what you said because they temporarily lost connection to the conference room.
Choosing A Recording Software For Great Audio Quality
This is likely one of the steps you are already well versed in, and this might be a rehash of what you already know. Depending on the type of computer you use, plenty of free recording software is available.
For example, if you use a Mac, you can access the free version of GarageBand, which has plenty of add-ons. PC users can download Audacity, which is super easy recording software ideal for recording via a microphone.
However, if we had to give one recommendation for studio-quality recordings, it would be to use Adobe Audition with the pro-level option if you are willing to spend some money. This option costs around $20 a month.
Depending on your machinery, you will also need to pick up multiple mics, perhaps a USB microphone or two or an XLR mic, which will need to be used for each participant.
We have seen a single microphone being shared between more than one guest; however, if you want to avoid any issues in the editing stage.
If you have issues, such as a guest moving too far away from the microphone because someone else is covering it, we recommend you go with two microphones, either an XLR or USB microphone, depending on your podcast setups.
You could also use a digital audio interface instead of two USB mics.
| Professional Quality  | Most Versatile  | Content Creators  |
| Primary Rating: 4.7 | Primary Rating: 4.6 | Primary Rating: 4.5 |
| $169.00 | $84.99 | $84.99 |
Using A Digital Recorder
Another popular method is to ditch the computer entirely and record using a digital recorder.
Whilst this option can be more expensive, many podcasters prefer to use digital recorders for in-person interviews as they are much less complicated to use and don’t limit you by the performance of your PC, laptop, or recording software.
If you choose a digital recorder, you must purchase an SD memory card with enough memory to record your audio files.
You should be fine with an SD card that has around 32 GB of storage, which is enough for multi-tracking.
You also need to purchase two microphones for this in-person interview using a digital recorder.
| Product Image | Product Name / Primary Rating / Price | Primary Button |
|---|---|---|
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
| |
| |
| |
|
Headphones
Even when recording in person, high-quality headphones are essential. They help you monitor the audio for any interference or background noise, ensuring a clear recording.
Opt for over-ear headphones that provide good noise isolation and comfort for extended use. Brands like Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, and Audio-Technica are popular choices among podcasters for their reliability and sound quality.
Splitters
A headphone splitter is a valuable tool for in-person podcast recordings. It allows two headsets to connect to a single audio jack, enabling both participants to hear each other clearly without the need for additional ports.
Look for splitters with 3.5 mm jacks and sturdy construction to ensure durability. Investing in a good-quality splitter can enhance your recording experience by providing consistent audio monitoring for both hosts and guests.
Surge Protector
If you are going to be using a lot of equipment, which is likely with an in-person recording, then we recommend you purchase a surge protector as part of your podcast starter kit to help plug everything into.
You could also purchase a cable management box to help keep things organized and a lot more professional.
Pair your surge protector with a cable management box to keep your recording space tidy and professional. This will help organize your cords and create a more efficient and visually appealing setup.
Recording Environment
Purchasing the correct and best podcast equipment is the first step, but ensuring that you record exceptional sound quality in a live setting is probably the most difficult task of all.
If you’ve ever recorded an interview using online conference software, the software will do this all for you. With in-person recording, it’s up to you to make sure your steps are perfect.
The good news is that once you have done this a few times, it’s easy and will take a little time.
The key principle is to monitor the audio quality as often as possible (see also ‘What Is Mic Monitoring?’).
You can either do this via headphones or use a third party to monitor the recording, which is a better option, especially if you want to concentrate more on speaking to your guest.
There’s nothing worse than having to keep checking your levels when this could have been achieved with a third party from the beginning.
The most important thing to do is test the audio first by doing a test run. This will ensure that all the equipment is operating correctly, avoiding recording an entire podcast with bad or no audio.
Having a quiet recording environment with little background noise is also essential, and it makes a huge difference in the quality of the podcast.
If you have to record in an environment with lots of background noise, then use noise cancellation equipment and editing software as a last resort, such as using foam panels, pop filters, or blankets to help dampen sound.
Podcast Setup for Two FAQs
Can I record a podcast with two people using just one microphone?
While using one microphone for two people is possible, it’s not recommended due to potential audio quality issues. Each person should have their own microphone to ensure clear and balanced audio.
What type of room is best for recording an in-person podcast?
Choose a quiet room with minimal echo and background noise. Soft furnishings like carpets, curtains, and foam panels can help improve acoustics by dampening sound.
How can I ensure my podcast equipment stays organized during recording?
Use cable management solutions like clips, ties, or a cable management box. This keeps your workspace tidy and reduces the risk of tripping over wires, making for a more professional recording environment.
Final Thoughts
Recording in person is the best way to achieve high-quality audio and natural, engaging conversations.
With the right equipment and setup, you can create a professional podcasting environment that enhances the overall experience for both you and your guest.
Follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure your podcast setup for two is flawless, delivering top-notch sound and seamless interactions every time.
