🎙️ Microphone Tips for Your Best Podcast Sound – PCI 454

Whether you’re just starting out or refining your setup, great audio is the foundation of a great podcast. In today's episode of Podcast Insider, we share practical tips for getting professional-sounding results—covering mic choice, positioning, background noise reduction, recording formats, and techniques to boost your on-mic confidence. Follow these steps and you’ll sound clearer, warmer, and more engaging to your listeners.

Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane 🎧 Mic Tips for Your Best Podcast Sound

Use the Right Mic (and Know How to Use It)

A dynamic mic (like the Shure SM7B or Samson Q2U) is great for voice and podcasting. Speak into the correct side—usually the front, not the top.

Mic Positioning Matters

Stay about 2–3 inches from the mic. Use a pop filter or windscreen to reduce plosives (hard P and B sounds). Slightly angle the mic off-center from your mouth to avoid breath noise.

Reduce Background Noise

Record in a quiet, carpeted room with soft furnishings. Turn off fans, HVAC, and silence notifications. Consider a noise gate or suppression plugin if needed.

Let Blubrry Master Your Audio Automatically

Hosting customers can use Media Mastering by Auphonic, an add-on that automatically enhances your audio file during upload.

It balances loudness, reduces background noise, and smoothes out small mic imperfections -- giving your episode a polished, professional sound without extra effort.

Watch Your Levels

Aim for -12dB to -6dB when recording. Avoid peaking (clipping). Use headphones to monitor while recording—this helps catch issues early.

Record in WAV, Not MP3

Always record in uncompressed formats (like WAV) for highest quality, then convert to MP3 for publishing.

🎤 Confidence Tips for Sounding Natural and Engaging

Practice Before Recording

Do a short “warm-up” session. Talk out loud about your topic for a few minutes off-mic.

Practice your intro and key points—don’t wing it unless you’re a seasoned pro.

Use Bullet Points, Not Scripts

Reading can sound stiff. Instead, work from an outline so you sound natural and conversational.

Smile When You Speak

It changes your tone and helps you sound more warm and confident.

Pause with Purpose

Silence is powerful. Don’t rush. Short pauses give listeners time to absorb and give you time to breathe.

Imagine Talking to One Person

Picture your ideal listener. This keeps your delivery personal and focused—not like you’re broadcasting to a crowd.

Listen Back & Improve

Review your episodes occasionally. Note areas where you sound strongest—and where you can grow.

Fake It 'Til You Sound It

Confidence grows with repetition. Even if you’re nervous, keep showing up. You’ll find your voice over time.

Thanks for listening to Podcast Insider, you can subscribe to new episodes out every Monday.

The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

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Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at todd@blubrry.com and mike@blubrry.com

Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.