Recording Prep
Set up for a great recording every time
Whether you're joining a session via Zoom, Teams, or BlueJeans — or calling in by phone — these tips will help ensure your audio is clean, consistent, and ready for production. Share this page with your guests before every session.
Before Your Session
- Use Headphones or Earbuds. This is the single most important step. Headphones prevent your microphone from picking up the other speaker's audio, which creates echo and makes editing significantly harder. The Logitech H540 USB headset is our top recommendation for remote guests.
- Run a Personal Sound Check. Before the session starts, record 30 seconds of yourself speaking at your normal podcast voice level. Play it back and listen for background noise, echo, or distortion. Fix it before the session, not after.
- Set Up Local Backup Recording. Always record a local backup of your own audio — either on your device or on a separate recorder. Zoom and Teams can drop audio quality unexpectedly. A local WAV file is your safety net.
- Choose Your Recording Location. Find a small, quiet, furnished room. Carpeted rooms with soft furnishings absorb sound and reduce echo. Avoid kitchens, bathrooms, and large open rooms.
- Close Unnecessary Apps. Notifications, music, and background processes can create interference. Close everything except your recording and conferencing software.
During Your Session
- Keep headphones on at all times while recording
- Speak at a consistent distance from your microphone — typically 6–8 inches
- Avoid shuffling papers, clicking pens, or tapping the desk — these sounds carry clearly on mic
- Pre-recorded content and custom intros can be inserted in post — no need to play audio live during a session
Hardware Tips
For the best results, use a dedicated USB microphone or headset rather than your laptop's built-in mic. See our full Hardware Recommendations for specific product picks.