TPU110 – Mobile Podcasting: Portable Equipment and Tips for Recording on the Go!

Mobile podcasting, also called, on-the-go recording, can be an exciting way of podcasting especially if you are somebody who likes interviewing guests who are otherwise inaccessible for remote recordings or if you are somebody who likes talking to people while on the field.

But portable podcasting has its own challenges.

If you are somebody who likes on-the-go recording, then this episode is for you.

Today I will share with your some essential pieces of equipment that you will need, some common challenges that you might face, and some very simple tips to get the best out of your recording.

Why do some podcasters prefer Mobile Podcasting?

Mobile Podcasting isn’t easy and is not something that everybody prefers.

Only a select few would like to go on that adventure and if you are one of those then this episode can help you get the most out of your efforts.

On-the-go recording can give you that uniqueness that most other podcasts won’t have and can give your show that roaming or, wanderer kind of a look.

It can be more appealing if you have videos to go along with your show but audio also does just as well as a video podcast. Plus, you have the added benefit that you can get hold of some guests who aren’t usually available for online remote recordings.

But outdoor recording comes with its own problems. Background and ambient noise are unavoidable. You will have to spend a good amount of time editing your audio to make it listenable and good quality.

Interruptions and disturbances are other problems that you might face.

Technical difficulties could also create issues. But you will at least have one less technical issue to deal with and that is a poor internet connection unless you are streaming live.

If you are ready to face all of these problems and add a refreshing dynamic to your content, then continue on to learn how to get the best out of your efforts from portable podcasting.

Suggested Equipment for On-the-Go Recording

Now that you’re intrigued by the possibilities, let’s look at the essential equipment for mobile podcasting. While you don’t need a full studio setup, investing in a few key items can make a world of difference. Here are some recommendations:

1. Portable Microphone: Look for a compact and versatile microphone that delivers excellent audio quality while being easy to carry around. A Lavalier microphone is a popular choice for its convenience and performance. You can go with wireless Lavalier microphones which are even more convenient. There are some good and affordable options on Amazon. You can find a few of those below in the resources section.
2. Headphones: A good pair of closed-back headphones can help you with monitoring your recordings and ensuring the audio is clean and clear.
3. Portable Recorder or Smartphone: Consider a portable recorder with built-in microphones or use your smartphone with a dedicated podcasting app. Both options offer convenience and mobility. The H1N recorders are the favorites of most mobile podcasters. You can find links to a few good ones in the resources section below.

Things to Keep in Mind for Portable Podcasting

Portable podcasting comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind to avoid any last minute disruptions in your recording.

1. Environment: Select a quiet location, free from distractions and background noise. If possible, use portable acoustic panels to enhance audio quality. While it might not be possible to soundproof every time, you can do it wherever it is possible.
2. Connectivity: Ensure you have a stable internet connection if you’re streaming live. Consider using a portable Wi-Fi hotspot or a reliable data plan to stay connected.
3. Power and Backup: Carry extra batteries or a portable power bank to avoid running out of power during your recordings. Additionally, consider having backup recording devices or memory cards for added security.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of on-the-go Recording

Now that you have your equipment and know what to keep in mind, let’s dive into some tips to maximize your portable podcasting sessions:

1. Test and Adjust: Before starting your actual recording, take the time to test your equipment and make necessary adjustments to optimize audio levels, mic placement, and settings.
2. Use a Pop Filter and Windshield: Minimize unwanted plosive sounds and wind noise by using a pop filter and a windshield when recording outdoors.
3. Prioritize Quality Connection: If conducting live streams, prioritize audio quality over video. A stable audio connection is vital for clear and uninterrupted conversations.
4. Plan: If you are traveling long distances to record interviews, then you might want to ensure that everything is going as per plan. Double-check with your guest on their availability.
5. Keep some buffer time: Setup can take some time. And you don’t want to waste time especially if you are recording with a guest. So ensure that you keep some buffer time before your interviews which you can use for your setup and checks.

Conclusion

Remember, mobile podcasting offers immense possibilities, and let’s you break geographical barriers to find and interview your guests.

But you need to spend some time to evaluate your resources before deciding on going mobile with your podcast.

Show Notes:

Here’s what we discussed on the episode –

1. Benefits of Mobile Podcasting
2. Common problems in mobile podcasting
3. Suggested equipment for the best results in portable podcasting
4. Things to keep in mind while recording on the move
5. Tips to get the most out of your efforts

Thank You for Joining

Thank you all for joining me on the show today.

If you enjoyed this episode then I am sure you will love some of the previous episodes as well. Pick your favorite ones and give it a listen.

The podcasting university is available on all podcasting platforms. You can pick your favorite one to listen to the show there. The links to some of the prominent ones are mentioned below.

CASTBOX: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/castbox
STITCHER: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/stitcher
TUNEIN: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/tunein
GOOGLE PODCASTS: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/googlepodcasts
APPLE PODCASTS: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/itunes
PLAYER.FM: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/playerfm
SPOTIFY: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/spotify
HUBHOPPER: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/hubhopper
AMAZON PRIME: https://thepodcastinguniversity.com/prime

Recommended Resources for Podcasting

Here are some of the recommended resources for Podcasting. These are the ones that I personally use and am satisfied with and hence am recommending them.

• Acast Podcast hosting – Acast is my favorite podcast hosting company. They have excellent customer support, have a pocket-friendly plan, and even have a free option with no limits.
• Behringer Audio Interface – You will need an audio interface if you are using an XLR microphone. This is my recommended audio interface.
• Zencastr – Zencastr is the easiest option to record interviews, both audio-only and audio+video. This is a must for an interview podcast. Go to zencastr.com/pricing and use my code “thepodu” You’ll get 30 percent off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
• Audacity – This is the best and the most feature-rich free audio editing software. It gives you a lot of options while editing your interviews.
• Blue Yeti USB Microphone – My recommended microphone
• Tidycal – My recommended calendar and booking solutions
• Fusebox – Embeddable Podcast Player
• Descript – Audio Editing, Transcription and Video editing software

AMAZON DISCLOSURE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The Podcasting University is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

MICROPHONES –

1. ATR-2100x
2. MAONO AU-HD300T : https://geni.us/ro48q
3. Maono AU-WDM01 : https://geni.us/PhZ3V2v
4. Samson Q2U – https://geni.us/k9cuk
5. Audio Technica AT 2035 – https://geni.us/g2URDI
6. Rode NT USB – https://geni.us/O6b65K
7. Shure MV7X – https://geni.us/w7rZ4

LAVELIER MICROPHONES

1. Boya ByM1 Auxillary Lavelier Microphone – https://geni.us/boyabym1lav
2. Boya ByM1 Pro Lavelier Microphones – https://geni.us/boyabym1prolav
3. Digitek Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/R3cGd
4. Boya – BYXM6 Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/OS6gq
5. Vook Dual Channel Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/V9YBO1i

PORTABLE RECORDERS –

1. Zoom H5 Portable Recorder – https://geni.us/rVTAIAV
2. Zoom H1N Portable Recorder – https://geni.us/dOaDg

AUDIO INTERFACE –

1. Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 – https://geni.us/gBCjm
2. M-Audio M-Track Solo – https://geni.us/RnhHr
3. HAYDEN HY-229 – https://geni.us/c80KbWB

MIXERS –

1. HAYDEN 4 Channels – https://geni.us/cXQ0
2. Behringer Q502USB

MONITORING HEADPHONES –

1. Oneodio Studio Pro-10 : https://geni.us/IQI88Se
2. Maono AU-MH501 : https://geni.us/AbNrU
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M20X : https://geni.us/eEUf9

POP-FILTER –

1. JEYANG Metal Pop Filter – https://geni.us/JMfuY
2. Wright WP 101 – https://geni.us/OcOAzj

DESK-STAND/BOOM ARM –

1. MY-STANDS MC 18 : https://geni.us/Lwnb
2. Bulfyss Professional Recording Microphone Stand: https://geni.us/mV4S

If you are on Pinterest, do pin the below image there.