Centrance MicPort Pro 2 for Podcasting

The new Centrance MicPort Pro 2 USB microphone preamp is something that all podcasters should consider. It will take the best broadcast condenser or dynamic microphones and make them instantly accessible to podcasters. In podcasting, no longer are you limited to using a USB microphone. This device effectively takes all microphones with an XLR output and converts them for use with a computer, tablet, or phone.

We’ve already discussed in this blog how to choose the best USB microphone for podcasting. But what if you want to go one step further and use a tried-and-true broadcast microphone for your podcast? The MicPort Pro 2 is the way to do that. Just plug your XLR microphone into the top of the unit, choose whether to add 48v of phantom power (if your mic requires it), and add the right amount of gain.

MicPort Pro 2 Features

It has a built-in, rechargeable battery that is purported to last longer than the competitors. It charges from any standard USB charger or a laptop.

This is an upgrade from the original MicPort Pro Classic that didn’t work with a phone. Centrance has added that feature to the MicPort Pro 2.

Per Centrance, the MicPort Pro 2 has been successfully tested with the following apps. But keep in mind that these apps are from third parties and may require their support.

• Audio Evolution (iOS/Android)
• Auria Pro (iOS)
• BandLab (iOS/Android)
• BeatMaker 3 (iOS)
• Cubasis (iOS)
• Field Recorder (Android)
• FL Studio Mobile (iOS)
• Garage Band (iOS)
• N-Track (iOS/Android)
• Twisted Wave (iOS)

The input to the MicPort Pro 2 is a Neutrik combo XLR jack and will accept mic, line or instrument sources. There is a headphone amp for monitoring.

Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac are all supported, and there is a high pass filter to cut wind noise or other low frequencies when recording.

Versions

Lastly, the Centrance MicPort Pro 2 comes in two versions. The upgraded version has a soft-knee limiter and clipping protection for an additional $30. For the non-pro and professional alike, I recommend springing for the upgrade as the extra features can save some time later during editing, and just might save an entire podcast from unwanted distortion and clipping.

The standard version is currently $249.99, while the upgraded version is $279.99. Go to the Centrance website for more info.

The post Centrance MicPort Pro 2 USB Microphone Preamp for Podcasting appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

However, starting a podcast does require some work, especially on the front end. Between purchasing your gear and setting it up at home, understanding how hosting works, and uploading your first show, there’s a lot to learn. It can be a lot, especially if you feel like you are ready to just start recording episodes!

In this guide, we’ll break down 7 things you need to know before starting a podcast. If you find yourself asking questions, you can contact us here anytime.

Let’s dive in!

1. Know Your Podcast – Inside And Out

The truth is, the podcasting medium is not for everyone. At the very least, it may not be for every project. If your goal is simply to occasionally get your message out to new people, you could start your podcast on YouTube instead. YouTube is free, but isn’t really a podcast platform.

This isn’t to deter you from podcasting; in fact, the opposite is true. The first step is to get very clear about why you want to podcast and what your show will be specifically about. Here are some brainstorming ideas to get started:

• How will your podcast relate to you, your business or brand (or is this just for fun)?
• What could the first 7 episodes of your podcast be about?
• What will the title of your podcast be?

If you find yourself struggling to detail 7 separate episodes right off the bat, this may be a sign that there’s a better medium for you. Think these things through before you start. It will save you time and money. Good old pen and paper are your friends for this first step.

If you decide podcasting is the way to go, keep reading!

2. Find The Right Equipment

When it comes to how to set up a podcast, you’ll want good equipment. People don’t want to listen to bad sound on a podcast, and it will make you sound unprofessional. Thankfully, affordable USB microphones that sound good do exist.

With the boom of home podcasting, two low-cost options have really emerged as the best.

The two most popular home podcasting microphones that won’t break the bank are the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB and the Rode Podcaster. This stereo mic might also be a good option for your show if you are recording remotely and need an iPad or iPhone solution.

For a new show, you only need a good USB microphone to start. Later, you can worry about mixers and all the additional pieces.

3. Pay For Good Artwork/Intro

Sure, you could design your podcast cover art on a website like Canva for free, but unless you have an eye for graphic design, it’s probably not a good idea.

Your podcast’s cover art and introduction music are the first things people will see and hear when listening to your show. If you want to give them a good impression, it’s important to invest a good amount here.

If you’re on a budget, you can get artwork done with Fiverr or Upwork. For something a little more comprehensive (but pricey), 99Designs can give you some great artwork, too.

For your intro, we provide royalty-free music and customized voiceovers to make your show shine right out of the box. Our voiceover artists are experienced in podcasting, professional radio, news reporting, multimedia production, video narration, church podcasting and more. It’s not a good idea to cut corners here, and we’ve been doing this for almost two decades!

4. Pick A Good Hosting Service

People asking, “what do you need to start a podcast?” would do well to find the right hosting service. You don’t want to upload audio directly to your website, as most website hosting servers aren’t designed for this and will slow down over time. Therefore, you should either find a free hosting solution or invest a small amount of money each month to let 3rd-party sites host your podcast episodes for you.

Websites like Soundcloud offer free hosting, while Libsyn starts at just $5/month.

5. Get Familiar With iTunes

Pat Flynn, one of the best resources available for building a podcast or online business, talks about iTunes as one giant search engine. iTunes is where most podcasts are, so it’s a spot you need to be.

Here’s how to start a podcast on iTunes.

6. How Will You Record?

What do you need to start a podcast? Something to record your episodes, of course. If you use Apple products, GarageBand is a free solution that many home podcasters use with a lot of success. You can even practice editing your show in the software too.

There are plenty of good free or low-cost recording options available, so don’t feel like you need expensive software for this.

Another option is to let us record your guests over the telephone like professional radio stations do. We pioneered this process for podcasting, and it starts for as little as $50/episode.

7. Write An Outline For Your First Show!

After setting up all of your equipment, choosing a hosting service, and getting your show in order, it’s time to start working on the first episode! At the very start, it will help to follow a rough outline. Don’t feel like you have to read off a script–don’t, in fact, because your listeners will know you are–but it will help you be comfortable and cover your key points.

In time, you may not need the outline anymore. But it’s a good resource to have initially, and will help you stick to the ideas you identified as important when you brainstormed during step 1.

Some podcasters, however, always follow an outline. The key to doing well with this medium is finding what works for you and sticking with it–refining your process over time.

How To Start A Podcast – Wrap-Up

Starting a podcast requires some work on the front end for sure, but it will be worth it if your goal is to connect with a new audience or build your brand. Even if you’re just doing it to have fun, a podcast is a good way to get your name out there and gain experience with speaking and having new tech skills under your belt.

Some things to do when you start: know what your show will be about, get a good USB mic, get nice artwork and intro audio done, pick a good hosting service, understand iTunes, pick the right recording software (or let us do it), and write a good outline for your first few episodes.

In addition, we are always here to help. Check out our podcast production services to learn more. Happy podcasting!

The post 7 Things You Need to Know About How to Start a Podcast appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

Rode has introduced the new iXY Stereo Mic for iPad and iPhone with a 30-pin connector that allows high quality recording at sampling rates up to 24-bit/96kHz.  It will be available soon, somewhere between January and March of 2013 at B&H by clicking here.

Podcasting does not always mean recording your own voice on a special mic in your home studio.  Sometimes, you may want to record an interview in the field, capture some ambience at a soccer game, or record your children singing in the bathroom.  This is where the Rode iXY will be best suited.

The “XY” in iXY means a coincident pair of directional microphones typically placed at a 90 degree angle to one another.  This technique records stereo sources nicely and generally means less hassle for the podcaster.  I won’t go into the other methods of recording stereo here, so you’ll have to trust me on this one.

A foam windscreen is provided for reducing wind in outdoor recordings, as well as a zip pocket for transport.

From the Rode website:

“I’m more excited about iXY than any other product in RØDE’s twenty year history,” commented Peter Freedman, RØDE’s Founder and President. “The audio quality of the iXY is breathtaking and really affirms RØDE’s commitment to providing the very best audio products available at a price that’s accessible to the general public.”

Released in conjunction with the iXY is RØDE Rec, an app for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch designed to be the ultimate companion to RØDE’s new microphone. When used together the iXY and RØDE Rec transform an iOS device into a fully featured field recorder.

RØDE Rec allows for complete control of the iXY’s continuously adjustable input levels for recording in loud and quiet environments, as well as the high pass filter to cut out low frequency rumbling such as air conditioning or outdoor traffic noises.

The RØDE Rec App is available for purchase from the App Store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore. The app provides a full suite of features including multiple sampling rates up to 96kHz, equalization effects (compressor/expander, high-pass filter, low pass filter, parametric EQ), non-linear editing, geo and photo tagging, and one-touch publishing to SoundCloud, Dropbox, email, FTP and iTunes.

The post Podcasting Equipment: Rode iXY Stereo Mic for iPad & iPhone appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

Centrance MicPort Pro Review:

Listen to the best quality podcast recordings today and you will find that they are usually programs produced by established radio personalities—Glenn Beck, Imus, etc.  One reason that their audio quality is so good is that they are using the microphone that is best for their voice.  Producers spend hours testing multiple microphones with their talent/host and their equipment (mic pres, compressors, limiters, EQ, etc.).  The final microphone choice is determined by sound quality, not cost or connectivity.

All to often, amateur podcasters resort to using the mics that are designed for easy connectivity, such as a USB connection to their PC or MAC.  It makes sense, why spend the time, effort and expense in creating a more professional set-up when the equipment manufacturers have made it so easy.  Ultimately, it comes down to sound quality.  There are so many more choices when you open yourself up to the world of XLR connectivity, not just USB.  The solution, a XLR to USB converter.

There are several XLR to USB converters on the market today; Use Google to search “XLR to USB Microphone Converter” for the most up-to-date list.  The CEntrance MicPort Pro is one of them and a review from The Gamer Access is below.  Also see RecordingHacks.com review of four XLR to USB converters here.

Begin Review
—————

Whether you are recording a podcast, conducting an interview, or recording vocals for an upcoming audio track, a quality microphone is the most essential tool in order to produce a quality experience for the listener. With that said, most professional and studio microphones do not use your standard 3.5mm or USB connector, but instead utilize XLR making it somewhat of a challenge for those who record to a computer. That’s at least what I thought until I had the opportunity to check out CEntrance’s MicPort Pro. Read more to discover how to utilize your professional or studio microphone on any device supporting audio through a USB input!

As the only portable microphone preamp supporting 24bit/96kHz, the MicPort Pro delivers true studio sound from your XLR microphone to any device with a USB input in lossless quality. Simply connect your microphone’s XLR connector to the female XLR input on the MicPort Pro and connect the included USB cable from the MicPort Pro to your USB device, and you are all ready to go! Not to be confused for a simple XLR to USB converter, the MicPort Pro contains its very own preamp for high quality audio recordings using not only basic dynamic microphones, but those who require phantom power. If you are unaware, what phantom power is, it is the method in which DC electric power is transmitted through microphones that require active electronic circuitry. Phantom power is required for a majority of the professional and studio microphones used today.  … continue reading the full article here: A Must-Have Professional Audio Device: CEntrance MicPort Pro (Review) . (Editors note: this legacy link is no longer active)

The post Podcasting Equipment Review: Podcast Recording with the CEntrance MicPort Pro appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

What is the best USB Microphone for podcasting?

Is the best USB microphone for podcasting a condenser or dynamic Mic? Is there one that sounds better than another, or do they all sound the same?

There is a disturbing trend in podcast production that I feel the need to address.  Podcasters have been sold a bill of goods that says, “record with a condenser mic, it sounds superior”.  Without knowing any better, and because 90% of USB microphones on the market are condensers, they wind up purchasing a condenser instead of the “inferior” dynamic mic.

Well, the problem is, condensers—as a general rule—pick up a lot of unwanted lip smacks, saliva and other noise from the human speaking voice.  While they tend to sound great on the singing voice, the speaking voice is a whole ‘nother matter.  Hearing the saliva roll around in someone’s mouth during a podcast is not pretty and may just encourage the listener to turn it—YOU—off.

Very few of us get to try out a microphone before buying it, but it is the only way to tell if a particular mic sounds good on YOUR voice.  Yes, for some people a condenser will sound better than a dynamic, but I would wager that the opposite is more likely.

There are two routes you can go here. Spend a little extra time and find the USB dynamic mics that are hiding among all the condensers out there. A few of the best are the Studio Projects LSM and the Audio-Technica AT2005USB.

Or, if you have a bigger budget and want to get the very best, get a dedicated broadcast dynamic microphone; they have been used for years in radio and voiceover production.

Try out the Beyerdynamic M99, Electro-Voice RE-320 or a Heil PR 40—all dynamics.  If these are good enough for NPR, Rush Limbaugh and Leo Laporte, they are good enough for you too.  They may be a bit more expensive than you originally wanted to pay, but the expense will be worth it.  Or, use eBay to find a used one at a more reasonable price.

A USB converter such as the Blue ICICLE or Centrance Micport Pro 2 can connect these broadcast mics to your computer if you don’t already have a recording interface. I know, it’s yet another piece of equipment to add to your buy-list.  But it is the one piece that connects you to the listener, so make your decision wisely.

So what is the best USB microphone for podcasting?

Well, as we discussed, it’s not that simple. Until you’ve tried one or the other on YOUR voice, the question is still open.

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Looking for a way to use your iPod to cheaply record a podcast, record your company conference call, or transcribe an interview or lecture?  Recording with an iPod is easier than you might think.  In all cases, these audio files can be used for podcasting, archiving or uploading to a transcribing company.

Here are the top 4 articles we’ve found that will help you use your iPod for recording.

1. Recording a Podcast Using an iPod and a Micromemo
Author: academictechnology

In this YouTube video, Jason discusses using a standard iPod to record lectures or interviews with the Micromemo.  He demonstrates how to plug-in the device and how easy it is to record directly to the iPod Nano.

2. Recording Lectures with an iPod Touch
Author: Heather M. Whitney

This post on The Chronicle of Higher Education site is geared towards those wanting to use the second-and third-generation iPod Touch for recording audio.  This method can be used to record lectures, interviews or any other live source via the iPod Touch.

3. Recording Phone Calls with an iPod
Author: Jake Ludington

Conference call recording is typically best left to experts like, well … us.  Jake Ludington says as much in the introduction to this post.  But if you find yourself with no other choice, recording your next phone call using the iPod—while not perfect—is doable.

4. Using Your iPod to Record Audio and Podcasts
Author: Michael Miller

With the right equipment and accessories, you can use your iPod to record conversations and interviews, and even to record and mix podcasts for broadcasting over the Internet.  Read this article to learn more.

photo by Jay Riddle

The post Top 4 Articles on Recording Podcasts, Conference Calls, Interviews & Lectures with an iPod appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

KORG SOUND on SOUND Unlimited Track Recorder

• Pocket-sized, portable, and battery powered, the SOUND on SOUND multitrack recorder provides on-board rhythms, effects, and an infinite number of overdubs for truly creative recordings
• With the built-in speaker and an internal high-quality stereo mic, you can capture and review your recordings instantly, without the need for any additional equipment
• Record and save in WAV format (PCM audio format, WAV format (extension: .wav), BWF compliant, 44.1 kHz@16-bit).
• Records up to ten hours on a pair of AA batteries
• Wedge-shaped design is easy to use as a hand-held recorder or on a desktop
• KORG AUDIO UTILITY software provides format conversion and audio CD creation. Downloadable free from Korg.com

Tannoy Reveal 501A Podcast Speakers / Monitors

Tannoy makes great sounding monitors—period.  Not only will this speaker accurately reproduce your voice-over, but it will allow you to “hear” the music you mix behind your voice as well.  Add a subwoofer and the possibilities are endless…

• Integrated 60W total power amp unit
• 5” (130mm) LF/MF driver and 1” (30mm) soft dome tweeter delivering wide frequency response   of 64Hz – 30kHz
• Sculpted and rigid front baffle design to minimise diffraction
• Response has been optimised for quarter space near-field operation, such as on a meter bridge   or on a table either side of your control surface.
• Front firing reflex bass port to negate boundary-coupling
• Bass unit development using to minimise offsets and linearise the suspension components.
• Wideband tweeter design extending the amplitude response beyond 20kHz audibility to 30kHz to improve the phase response from within the audible band.
• LED indicator shows power status
• + 1.5 / 0 / -1.5dB HF trim switch for custom room adjustment
• Rear mounted volume control for convenient Home Studio and PC/MAC laptop/desktop use.
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced jack connectors.

Tascam DR-100 Portable Podcast Recorder w/ XLR

With XLR inputs, this field recorder—while not new—still occupies a tasty position among low-cost solid-state recorders.  Perfect for recording podcast interviews with an external microphone.

• Four microphones – Stereo Cardioid and Omni Condenser Mics
• 44.1k to 96k sampling rates for WAV file recording
• MP3 and WAV file Recording and Playback
• XLR Mic Inputs with Phantom Power
• High-performance microphone preamp with 60dB of gain
• Premium AKM Audio4Pro™ A/D converters with over 100dB signal to noise ratio
• 3.5mm Line Inputs and Outputs
• Low Cut Filter, Analog Limiter and Auto Gain Control
• Built-in Speaker
• Integrated microphone stand mount
• Runs on Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery or AA Batteries
• Optional PS-P520 AC power adapter
• Dimensions: 3.2″ W x 1.4″ H x 6″ D (80.5mm x 35mm x 151mm)

Mogami Quality Studio Cable — Snake

When building a podcast recording studio, the last thing you want to do is use cheap interconnects and cabling.  While I am not a proponent of ultra expensive cables for podcast purposes, I strongly recommend using solid interconnects that won’t wear down and create noise at their joints.  This is a common problem today because many modern mixers have the Mic and Line inputs on the top of the mixer.  This means that when connected to any equipment that is positioned lower than the mixer chassis, the cable will have to bend 180 degrees on it’s way to the other piece of equipment.  This is a challenge for any cable.

• Famous for neutral tone, remarkable detail and noise-free background
• Channels are individually shielded with numbered, Techflex™ protected jackets
• Assembled with top quality gold contact TRS and XLR connectors
• Super-flexible handling ease
• Lifetime warranty

Check back with us often as we will continue to gather our choices for best new podcasting equipment.  Thanks for visiting.

The post Top New Equipment for Your Podcast Recording Studio appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

What Hardware do You Need?
Microphones, headphones and computers are discussed.

Software?
Professional or Consumer?

Recording, Editing and Production in Garageband
How to use tracks, effects and sharing features.

If you liked this screencast Intro to Recording a Podcast from TechUniversity, please let us know.  Also check out our podcast recording and production services page.

The post Introduction to Podcast Recording and Production appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.

Sanyo Xacti — Remote Interview Podcast Recording Tool

The Sanyo Xacti could be a great solution to record a podcast interview remotely.

• Linear PCM & MP3 recording function that allows you to select the appropriate recording option
• Easy expansion thanks to the convenience of microSD card!
• Scene select function that allows anyone to make simple and clear recordings
• Various advanced features for beautiful podcast recording

DACport — Headphone Port (DAC) That Could Vastly Improve your PC/MAC Audio Playback During Podcast Recording Sessions

• Audiophile-grade D/A converter plays 24-bit/96 kHz HD music with bit-for-bit accuracy.
• Headphone amp designed for listening without fatigue, offers clarity, soundstage and detail.
• No drivers needed. Plug ‘n play operation with most laptops, nettops and music servers.
• 1/4-inch headphone jack is perfect for the most advanced headphones on the market.

Yeti — A Podcast Recording Microphone on Steroids

• Master Volume
• Mute Button
• USB Mini Jack
• Custom Base with Cable Management
• 4 Polar Patterns

VoxGuard — Acoustic Treatment for Your Podcast Recording Microphone

• Easily mounts on microphone stand for podcast recording
• Lightweight and unobtrusive
• Minimizes room reflections at the microphone
• High-impact ABS plastic/high density open-cell acoustic foam construction

Check back with us often as we will continue to gather our choices for best new podcasting equipment.  Thanks for visiting.

The post Top 4 Equipment Choices to Improve Your Podcast Recordings appeared first on AudioFile Solutions.