Introduction

Podcasting has become a great way to share knowledge, build personal brands, and connect with people. Whether you’re a creator, a small business, or a big company, podcasts offer a unique way to create interesting, long-form content.

This guide will help you set up a podcast for two hosts. It covers everything from choosing the right equipment to setting up based on your budget. Podcasting is not just about recording conversations; it's a smart move for creating content and growing your audience.

Budget Breakdown

If you’re new to podcasting, start simple. Many podcasters just use a phone or computer. External microphones can be added later as you grow.

Low Budget (Ideal for Individuals or Startups)

Here’s what you need if you’re starting on a low budget:

  1. Microphones: Blue Yeti or Samson Q2U
    • Pros: Affordable, USB connection (no need for an audio interface), plug-and-play, cardioid pattern for minimizing background noise.
    • Cons: USB mics generally provide lower sound quality than XLR microphones, not ideal for long-term or professional-level production.
    • Alternatives: Audio-Technica ATR2100x (slightly pricier but includes both USB and XLR connections for future upgrades).
  2. Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett Solo
    • Pros: Easy for beginners, works well with one or two mics.
    • Cons: Limited to two inputs, so it’s not ideal for larger setups. If you expand beyond two hosts, you’ll need to upgrade.
    • Alternatives: Behringer UMC22 (cheaper but slightly lower sound quality).
  3. Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
    • Pros: Budget-friendly, durable, and comfortable for long recording sessions.
    • Cons: Lacks the high fidelity and sound isolation found in more expensive models, not ideal for detailed sound editing.
    • Alternatives: Sennheiser HD280 Pro (slightly higher price with better sound isolation).
  4. Recording Software: Audacity or GarageBand
    • Pros: Free, simple, beginner-friendly editing tools, available across platforms.
    • Cons: Limited features, lacks professional-grade sound editing options.
    • Alternatives: Reaper (affordable, versatile software with more professional capabilities).

Mid Budget (Perfect for SMEs)

For SMEs looking to deliver higher-quality content, investing in mid-tier gear can make a significant difference:

  1. Microphones: Shure SM58
    • Pros: A classic and durable microphone, widely used for vocals, delivers clear and warm sound quality.
    • Cons: XLR connection requires an audio interface, not as sensitive as condenser mics (better for studio environments).
    • Alternatives: Rode PodMic (optimized for podcasts with broadcast-quality sound and slightly more affordable).
  2. Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
    • Pros: Two microphone inputs, great preamps, clear sound quality, compact size.
    • Cons: Limited to two inputs, no onboard sound effects or processing.
    • Alternatives: PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 (similar price, comes with free software, but fewer advanced features).
  3. Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
    • Pros: Outstanding sound quality, excellent clarity across lows, mids, and highs. Foldable for portability.
    • Cons: Higher price point for a mid-budget option, can be excessive for beginners.
    • Alternatives: Sony MDR-7506 (used in many studios, durable, slightly cheaper).
  4. Recording Software: Adobe Audition or Logic Pro X
    • Pros: Feature-rich, perfect for advanced editing, mixing, and post-production. Allows multi-track recording.
    • Cons: Subscription-based (Adobe), and Logic is Mac-exclusive. Steeper learning curve for beginners.
    • Alternatives: Hindenburg Journalist (designed specifically for podcast production, simpler interface).

High Budget/Enterprise (For Large Companies)

Enterprises and professional content teams require studio-quality sound and versatility. Here’s the ideal setup:

  1. Microphones: Shure SM7B
    • Pros: Industry standard for professional podcasts, exceptional sound quality, great noise rejection.
    • Cons: Requires a strong preamp (Cloudlifter or equivalent), higher price, not plug-and-play.
    • Alternatives: Electro-Voice RE20 (another broadcast standard, similar price but different tonal quality).
  2. Audio Interface: Universal Audio Apollo Twin
    • Pros: Studio-quality interface, top-notch preamps, built-in DSP for real-time effects, great for multi-host setups.
    • Cons: Expensive, more complex to use, may be overkill for simple podcasts.
    • Alternatives: Audient iD14 (slightly more affordable, offers high-end features with excellent sound).
  3. Headphones: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
    • Pros: High fidelity, excellent sound isolation, comfortable for long sessions, industry-standard for professional monitoring.
    • Cons: Expensive compared to mid-range options, closed-back design may cause ear fatigue over extended use.
    • Alternatives: AKG K712 Pro (open-back, great for mixing with natural sound, though less sound isolation).
  4. Recording Software: Pro Tools
    • Pros: Industry-leading audio production software, offers full control over every aspect of sound editing and mixing.
    • Cons: Expensive, requires high-end hardware, steep learning curve.
    • Alternatives: Cubase (similar professional capabilities, slightly more user-friendly).

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Equipment Setup

Once you’ve selected your gear, proper setup is crucial for getting the best possible sound quality. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your podcast equipment, ensuring that your two-host setup runs smoothly.

Microphone Placement

Proper microphone placement is the key to achieving clear, balanced audio:

  • Each host should sit about 6-12 inches from their microphone to capture rich sound without distortion.
  • Angle the microphone slightly to avoid direct airflow, which can cause harsh “P” and “B” sounds.
  • Use boom arms or desktop stands to keep the microphone steady and at a consistent distance. Boom arms are more flexible and help keep the desk clutter-free.

Pop Filters and Shock Mounts

  • Pop Filters: These reduce plosive sounds that can occur when pronouncing "P" or "B" sounds directly into the microphone. Attaching a pop filter to your mic helps keep the audio clean and professional.
  • Shock Mounts: These isolate the microphone from vibrations caused by desk movement or accidental bumps. Using a shock mount ensures that external noise doesn’t interfere with your recording.

Soundproofing Your Space

Good soundproofing ensures your recordings are free from unwanted background noise or echo. Here are simple ways to improve your recording environment:

  • Use acoustic foam panels or soundproofing blankets on walls to absorb sound.
  • Cover hard surfaces like floors with rugs or carpets to reduce reverb.
  • If budget is a concern, hang blankets or use thick curtains as an affordable alternative to professional soundproofing.

Monitor Your Audio Levels

To achieve balanced audio, it's essential to monitor sound levels throughout the recording. Each host should wear headphones connected to your audio interface to ensure:

  • Voice clarity: Make sure voices aren’t too quiet or distorted.
  • Balance: Adjust the gain for each host to maintain equal volume levels.
  • If your audio interface only has one headphone output, use a headphone splitter to allow both hosts to monitor the audio simultaneously.

Recording Tools for Two-Host Podcasts

If you’re recording remotely, use reliable online platforms designed for podcasting:

  • StreamYard and Riverside are excellent for remote podcast recordings, offering high-quality audio and video and easy file extraction for editing. These tools simplify the process for remote hosts without sacrificing quality.

Lighting for Video Podcasts

If your podcast includes a video component, proper lighting can drastically improve the quality of your visual content:

  • Ring Lights: Ideal for smaller setups, ring lights provide even lighting for faces, reducing harsh shadows.
  • Softbox Lights: For more professional lighting, softbox kits offer softer, diffused lighting, making the recording space look polished and professional.

Test Your Setup

Before your actual recording session, always run a test. This helps identify any issues, like microphone placement or audio imbalances, and ensures everything is working smoothly. Test both sound levels and video quality (if applicable) to avoid issues during the actual recording.

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Podcasting for Marketing Teams

Podcasts are a powerful tool for marketing teams. They let you create content that builds your brand and connects with your audience.

Key Benefits:

  1. Thought Leadership

    Hosting podcasts allows your brand to showcase expertise and share valuable insights. Invite industry leaders or customers for interviews to build credibility and demonstrate leadership in your field.

  2. Content Repurposing

    Podcast episodes can easily be converted into blog posts, social media clips, and email newsletters. Tools like Flowjin can help create summaries, blog posts, LinkedIn posts, Tweets and social media clips to maximize the reach of each episode.

  3. Brand Visibility

    Publishing on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts exposes your brand to new, untapped audiences. Consistent, valuable content builds awareness and attracts loyal listeners.

    Posting your podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Castbox helps you reach new audiences.

  4. Lead Generation

    Podcasts are a soft-sell approach to marketing. Mention your products, services, or case studies naturally within the episode to drive interest without being overly promotional.

SMEs vs. Enterprises:

  • SMEs: Podcasts offer a cost-effective way to produce valuable content without large-scale investment. SMEs can focus on niche topics and invite guest experts to expand their reach and network.
  • Enterprises: Larger businesses can leverage branded podcast series to target specific customer segments or industries. Enterprises can also incorporate sponsorships, paid subscriptions, or affiliate marketing for monetization.

Recording Environment & Tips

Your recording space plays a significant role in sound quality. Here's how to optimize it:

  • Recording Tools: Instead of Zoom, Google Meet or online meeting tools opt for online ones like Riverside or StreamYard, which are built for high-quality podcast recordings with easier video extraction.
  • Lighting: If you're filming your podcast, consider adding affordable lighting like Elgato Key Light to improve video quality, making your content more professional.
  • Mic Placement: Ensure both hosts sit in a comfortable position with equal distance from their microphones.
  • Monitor Levels: Use your audio interface to monitor audio levels, ensuring both voices are balanced.
  • Soundproofing: Soft surfaces such as carpets, curtains, or foam panels can reduce reverb and improve the overall sound quality.

Maximizing Your Podcast Content

After recording, your podcast can be repurposed into multiple forms of content to expand its reach. Using Flowjin, you can transform your podcast into:

  • Blog Posts: Craft in-depth articles or summaries from key discussions.
  • Short Videos: Convert full episodes or highlights into clips for YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, complete with subtitles for accessibility.
  • Summaries: Write concise episode summaries for newsletters or websites.
  • Transcripts: Generate full transcripts, improving accessibility and SEO.

By repurposing your content, you boost your presence across platforms and engage a wider audience.

Conclusion

Podcasting is an incredibly versatile and valuable tool for individuals, SMEs, and enterprises. With the right setup and budget, you can produce high-quality episodes that connect with your audience. Beyond recording, remember to maximize your content by repurposing it for other platforms using services like Flowjin. Whether you're starting small or going for a professional-grade setup, podcasting can significantly enhance your content strategy, grow your audience, and establish your brand’s authority.