by Jay Sandwich
The greatest thing about getting into podcasting is that barrier to entry is pretty low and you don't need to invest too much into recording equipment right away. But as your podcast starts getting some traction, it would be a very good idea to start the process of upgrading your gear. You want to both make your own life easier and provide the highest sound quality you can afford for your listeners.
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One of the things you might want to get early is a podcast mixer. It's something that you know is going to be useful and the feeling of getting some new gear is always fulfilling. Just don't rush it and make an informed decision. Also keep in mind that while having a more advanced setup will surely improve the quality of your podcast in the long run, it might also require some getting used to and it might complicate your recording process in the beginning.
Still, getting a mixer will sooner or later become a must for you if you want to keep podcasting professionally.
It goes without saying that getting a professional grade mixer will improve the sound quality of your podcast right away. The preamps and the whole circuitry on mixers were designed with sound quality in mind, so you will be able to get even better results from the microphone you already have with very little additional tinkering. But since podcasts don't require the same attention to detail as recording a musical instrument, the subtle boost in audio quality alone would not be enough to warrant the investment. The thing is, you want to have a mixer for your podcast for the flexibility, control and utility.
So let's look at the benefits. Keep in mind that in order to take advantage of them, you need to select a mixer that supports that functionality.
Control over individual channels is something quite simple, yet extremely convenient. This means you could get everyone their own recorded track with individual corrections suited to the way they talk. This will allow you to do a much more thorough job in post and will make your life easier and your podcast much easier to listen to when multiple people are talking.
Keep in mind you will usually require at least 4 channels and if you have multiple guests and cohosts, you might be better off with more. Select a mixer that has enough channels for you to grow painlessly.
Having multiple channels is great and most mixers will allow you to control and enhance each channel separately. Being able to use equalization, low-cut filters and gain control on each channel individually will save you a lot of time and headaches in post.
Here is a video showing how to use your mixer's EQ section.
If you already have an XLR microphone without owning a mixer, you are most probably using a USB converter or something similar. Unfortunately, those solutions are a compromise at best and having a mixer that can provide your awesome condenser mike the juice it needs will allow it to perform to its full potential.
Hopefully you haven't experienced that yet yourself, but computers are prone to bugs and crashes. This means that if you are recording on your computer, you might lose all or most of your recording due to glitches. On the other hand, mixers don't crash and if you pair them with a digital recorder, you will always have a backup copy of everything you record.
Sometimes the simplest things in life are what counts. It's one thing trying to adjust some tiny fidgety controls on a computer screen and a whole other story to have the literal faders or knobs at your fingertips. Try to select a mixer that offers faders for volume control.
Having remote guests will open up your podcast to a lot of new possibilities but it also comes with a lot of challenges. One of the biggest problems is having everybody hear what they need to. While you can connect your guest to your mixer from Skype, you need to send an audio mix to him that doesn't include their own voice but includes everything from your side of the conversation. If your mixer has an Auxiliary Output or and FX Send, you can use that to create a mix minus the voice of your remote guest and sending that to them, so they hear exactly what they need.
On top of it all, having a good mixer that you are skilled at operating could actually save you the bulk of the work you are now doing in post-production. Having a versatile mixer means you could be playing intros and outros, music and prerecorded voice clips live while recording just like people would do on a radio show. This means you could be doing the bulk of your editing work on the fly and then requiring significantly less time and effort in post.
So if you are seeing a podcasting-friendly mixer in your future, here are a few models to consider depending on your budget.
The RODECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio is your all-in-one podcasting solution. Whether you are a new or experienced podcaster, this studio has everything you need to get started. It features four high-quality mic channels, which can be used with studio condenser mics or conventional dynamic mics. You can also record directly to a microSD card, making it easy to get your content online. The eight programmable sound effects pads add an extra dimension of creativity and fun to your podcasts. And if you need to interview someone remotely, simply connect your phone via Bluetooth or with a TRRS cable - the built-in "mix-minus" audio will ensure that they only hear your voice and not any echo
Pros and Cons of Rode RODECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio
The Pros:
The Cons:
Overall, the RODE RODECaster Pro is a great podcast production studio that comes with some minor drawbacks. If you're looking for a high-quality device
PRESONUS StudioLive SLM AR8C Mixer Recording Interface Bundle with Rockville RCM is the perfect way to start your home recording studio! This package includes the PRESONUS StudioLive SLM AR8C 8-channel mixer, which gives you everything you need to start recording your music. Plus, we've included 4 Rockville RCM03 Pro Studio Recording Condenser Microphones, so you can get started right away! The Samson SR850 Professional Reference Headphones will help you produce great mixes, and the Rockville DMS40 Boom Arm mic stand will keep your mics in place. Finally, the Samson QH4 4-Channel headphone amplifier will let you hear your mix in detail.
Looking for a powerful and versatile mixer that won't break the bank? Look no further than the Yamaha MG10. This 10-channel mixer comes with USB and SPX digital effects, discrete class A D PRE amps, and 3 band EQs to help you get the perfect sound every time. Plus, its 1 knob compressors make it easy to control your live soundscape with just one hand. And thanks to its rugged metal chassis, it can stand up to even the most strenuous gigs. So don't go another day struggling with an inferior mixer - pick up a Yamaha MG10 today!
The Yamaha MG Series mixers are a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, quality mixer. The series offers ten models ranging from the four-channel MG04 to the twenty-two channel MG2220. Each model has its own set of features and benefits, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
That's an entry level mixer that will get you what you the basics at an affordable price without any bell and whistles.
This is a solid midrange option with a bit more channels and functionality. It is very likely to be absolutely enough for your podcasting needs and would be a pleasure to work with. As a bonus, it can connect to a computer over USB to bring your straight in for direct recording.
Read our full review on the Behringer Xenyx 1204
Mackie's ProFXv2 8 A-B Box, 8-channel mixer is perfect for live sound. It features 4 low-noise Mackie Vita mic preamps adding life to any input. The ReadyFX effects engine with 16 effects including reverbs, delays, and choruses. There is a 7-band graphic EQ for tuning mains or monitors. The Aux output can be used for monitor mixes, venue 70-volt systems and more. 3-band EQ and 100Hz low-cut filter on all channels. Power Consumption: 20 watts
if you are looking for a professional grade piece of equipment and can afford to spend more on quality, this is the mixer for you. It's reliable, functional and has amazing preamps and 7-band EQs.
The Mackie ProFXv is a great mixer for anyone just starting out in the world of audio mixing. It's got all the features you need to get the job done, and it's very easy to use. The only downside is that it doesn't have as many channels as some other mixers on the market. But overall, the Mackie ProFXv is a great value for the money.
Pros:
Cons:
When choosing a mixer for podcasting, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
How many channels do you need? Most mixers have anywhere from two to sixteen channels. If you only plan on doing a solo show, you may not need as many channels as someone who plans on having a panel discussion.
What type of input do you need? Some mixers have XLR inputs, while others have ¼" jacks. If you plan on using a lot of professional microphones, you'll want a mixer with XLR inputs. If you plan on using a lot of consumer-grade gear, you may prefer a mixer with ¼" jacks.
What type of output do you need? Some mixers have RCA outputs, while others have XLR outputs. If you plan on using a lot of consumer-grade gear, you may prefer a mixer with RCA outputs. If you plan on using a lot of professional gear, you'll want a mixer with XLR outputs.
How much power do you need? Mixers come in two different power ratings: low-power and high-power. If you plan on using your mixer mainly for podcasting, you'll probably be fine with a low-power model. But if you plan on using your mixer for live shows as well, you'll want a high-power model.
Do you need built-in effects? Many mixers come with built-in effects, such as reverb and delay. If you plan on using your mixer for podcasting only, you may not need any built-in effects. But if you plan on using your mixer for live shows, you'll want a model with built-in effects.
Do you need USB connectivity? If you plan on doing a lot of recording and editing in post-production, you'll want a mixer with USB connectivity. This will allow you to easily transfer files back and forth between your mixer and your computer.
Do you need a mixer with a built-in audio interface? If you plan on doing a lot of recording and editing in post-production, you'll want a mixer with a built-in audio interface. This will allow you to easily connect your microphones and instruments to your mixer.
Once you've considered these factors, you'll be able to choose the mixer that's right for you.
A podcasting mixer is a device that allows you to mix together multiple audio signals. This can be useful for podcasts, as it allows you to combine the voices of your guests with music and other sound effects. It also allows you to adjust the levels of each signal, so that everything sounds great!
What are the different types of podcasting mixers?
There are three main types of podcasting mixers: analog, digital, and USB. Analog mixers use knobs and dials to adjust the levels of each signal. Digital mixers use buttons and menus to do the same thing. USB mixers allow you to plug in your computer, and they will mix the audio signals for you.
There are many benefits to using a podcasting mixer. First, it allows you to combine multiple audio signals into one track. This can make your podcast sound more professional. Second, it allows you to adjust the levels of each signal, so that everything sounds great! Finally, it makes editing your podcast much easier, as all of the audio signals will be in one place.
To choose the right podcasting mixer for you, first consider your budget. Then decide what type of mixer you want. Analog mixers are cheaper than digital or USB mixers, but they can be more difficult to use. Next, decide how many channels you need. Most podcasting mixers have between two and eight channels. Finally, decide what features you want. Some mixers have built-in effects, while others allow you to plug in your own effects pedals.
We hope this article has answered some of your questions about podcasting mixers! If you're still not sure which mixer is right for you, please contact us and we will be happy to help!
Behringer MICROAMP HA400 Ultra-Compact 4-Channel Stereo Headphone Amplifier Black, Silver - Etsy Link
ART HeadAMP4 Eight Output Stereo Headphone Amplifier - Etsy Link
HOSA HSS-005 REAN 1/4" TRS to REAN 1/4" TRS Pro Balanced Interconnect, 5 Feet - Etsy Link
BEHRINGER, 12 Mixer-Powered, Black (Q1202USB) - Etsy Link
Mackie ProFXv2, 8 A-B Box, 8-channel (PROFX8V2) - Etsy Link
Yamaha AG03 3-Channel Mixer / 1 Microphone - Etsy Link
Allen & Heath ZED-12FX 12-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Onboard EFX - Etsy Link
Yamaha AG06 6-Channel Mixer / 2 Microphone, White - Etsy Link
Pyle 2-Channel Audio Mixer - DJ Sound Controller Interface with USB Soundcard for PC - Etsy Link
Behringer Xenyx 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer - Etsy Link
BEHRINGER, UFX1204 Premium 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer with 16X4 Firewire Interface 16-Track USB - Etsy Link
YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects - Etsy Link
Yamaha MG12XU 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer with Effects - Etsy Link
Mackie, B Box, 12-Channel (PROFX12V2) - Etsy Link
Mackie Rackmount Bracket Set for ProFX12v2 and ProFX12 - Etsy Link
Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 | Hybrid 4 In Out USB Interface 4 Mic Line 2 Stereo Input Compact - Etsy Link
Soundcraft Signature 12MTK Analog 12-Channel Multi-track Mixer with Onboard Lexicon - Etsy Link
Behringer MICROAMP HA400 Ultra-Compact 4-Channel Stereo Headphone Amplifier Black, Silver - eBay Link
ART HeadAMP4 Eight Output Stereo Headphone Amplifier - eBay Link
HOSA HSS-005 REAN 1/4" TRS to REAN 1/4" TRS Pro Balanced Interconnect, 5 Feet - eBay Link
BEHRINGER, 12 Mixer-Powered, Black (Q1202USB) - eBay Link
Mackie ProFXv2, 8 A-B Box, 8-channel (PROFX8V2) - eBay Link
Yamaha AG03 3-Channel Mixer / 1 Microphone - eBay Link
Allen & Heath ZED-12FX 12-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Onboard EFX - eBay Link
Yamaha AG06 6-Channel Mixer / 2 Microphone, White - eBay Link
Pyle 2-Channel Audio Mixer - DJ Sound Controller Interface with USB Soundcard for PC - eBay Link
Behringer Xenyx 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer - eBay Link
BEHRINGER, UFX1204 Premium 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer with 16X4 Firewire Interface 16-Track USB - eBay Link
YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects - eBay Link
Yamaha MG12XU 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer with Effects - eBay Link
Mackie, B Box, 12-Channel (PROFX12V2) - eBay Link
Mackie Rackmount Bracket Set for ProFX12v2 and ProFX12 - eBay Link
Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 | Hybrid 4 In Out USB Interface 4 Mic Line 2 Stereo Input Compact - eBay Link
Soundcraft Signature 12MTK Analog 12-Channel Multi-track Mixer with Onboard Lexicon - eBay Link
About Jay Sandwich
Jay is an ex-shred guitar player and current modular synth noodler from a small town somewhere. Quote: “I’m a salty old sandwich with a perspective as fresh as bread.” No bull.
Musical Inspiration
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