Podcasting has become an accessible and popular medium, allowing anyone with a voice and an idea to share it with the world. Whether you're using a high-end studio or a simple USB microphone setup, your podcast can thrive with the right tools and environment. Here's an inside look at how Alex Goldman, co-founder of the popular podcast Reply All, creates his podcast Hyperfixed from his home studio.
Creating the Perfect Podcasting Space
Since the pandemic, many podcasters have transitioned to home setups, turning small spaces into functional recording studios. For Goldman, his podcasting sanctuary is a cozy 8x8 room in his basement. It may not look like much, but it's perfect for achieving high-quality sound.
The key to a good recording space is controlling sound reflections. By cluttering the room with soft materials and using sound baffles, echo is minimized. One clever trick Goldman uses is hanging a Black Sabbath Vol. 4 flag over a wool blanket to improve acoustics while adding a personal touch to his space.
Essential Podcasting Gear
Goldman’s podcasting equipment consists of tried-and-true tools used across the industry:
- Microphone: A Shure SM7B—a staple in radio and podcasting for its reliable sound quality.
- Audio Interface: He uses both a Focusrite 2i2 and a Focusrite 18i8, depending on the recording needs. The 18i8 is ideal for desktop recording, while the 2i2 is portable and easy to use.
- Software: For audio editing, Goldman sticks with Pro Tools, the industry standard, now available as a subscription for $10/month.
Music and Sound Design
Creating music for podcasts doesn't have to be complicated. Goldman often collaborates with The Mysterious Breakmaster Cylinder for his shows' music, but he also enjoys crafting his own sounds using synthesizers like the Sequential Circuits Prophet 6 and Moog Matriarch. These synthesizers are perfect for adding rich, textured sounds to his podcast, giving it a unique feel.
For drum sounds, he mainly relies on Ableton's stock drums, but also incorporates beats from samplers and drum machines like the Erica Synths LXR-02 and SOMA Pulsar-23.
Final Thoughts
Podcasting is more accessible than ever, and with a well-prepared space and the right gear, anyone can create a professional-sounding podcast from home. Whether you're producing content in a small room or a full-fledged studio, focusing on sound quality and staying creative with your equipment will set your podcast apart.
Goldman’s setup proves that with the right tools, even a basement studio can become a hub for high-quality, engaging content.
Related Podcasting Resources:
- Left Handed Radio’s Anna Rubanova
- Science Vs’ Rose Rimler
- Criminal/This Is Love’s Lauren Spohrer
- Jesse Thorn of Bullseye
These creators share their own podcasting setups, providing valuable insights into how to build a workflow that suits your unique podcasting style.
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