Fix Common Podcast Audio Mistakes
Mastering Audio: Avoiding Common Mistakes for Flawless Podcast Production
Great content won’t save bad audio. If your podcast sounds amateur, your listeners will tune out fast. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your sound, avoiding a few common mistakes will keep your production tight and your audience engaged.
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878 breaks down the most frequent audio missteps - and how to fix them before they tank your next episode.
Audio Mistakes Start at the Mic
Even with a professional setup, small errors at the mic level can ruin your sound. Here’s how to fix them:
Too Far from the Mic: Sit three to six inches from the mic. Too far, and your voice sounds thin. Use a boom arm and pop filter to stay consistent.
Speaking Off-Axis: If you're talking above, beside, or behind the mic, your audio will suffer. Know your mic's pickup pattern (cardioid, directional, etc.) and stay aligned.
Pops, Plosives, and Breaths: Harsh ‘P’ and ‘B’ sounds are avoidable. Use a pop filter, maintain proper distance, and angle the mic slightly off-center to reduce breath noise.
The Room Matters More Than You Think
Your microphone can’t fix a bad room. Here’s what to avoid:
Echo and Reverb: Bare walls and hard floors bounce sound. Soften the space with rugs, curtains, cushions - anything absorbent.
Background Hums: HVAC, laptop fans, and fluorescent lights can all ruin a take. Turn them off where possible. Use headphones to catch low-level noise in real time.
Vibration Noise: Keyboard clicks and desk thumps travel straight into the mic. Use a boom arm and avoid touching the desk while recording.
Recording Settings That Keep You Out of Trouble
Audio issues often come down to bad software settings. Check these before hitting record:
Recording Levels: Aim for levels between -12 and -6 dB to avoid clipping or distortion. Use a mixer or interface that gives you control.
Live Monitoring: Always wear headphones. They let you catch noise, hum, or mic buzz immediately - not after the fact.
Wrong Input Source: Double-check that your DAW or recording app is using your external mic - not the built-in laptop mic.
Post-Production: Where It All Comes Together (or Falls Apart)
Polish matters - but over-editing kills authenticity. Keep these in check:
Over-Editing: Don’t cut every breath or pause. Leave room for natural flow. Choppy audio is worse than a few ums.
Skipping Basic Processing: Tools like EQ and compression make audio smoother and more listenable. Use platforms like Auphonic, Adobe Podcast, or Descript to apply presets and clean up your mix.
Inconsistent Volume: Uneven audio distracts. Normalize tracks and match levels across speakers. The listener should never have to adjust their volume mid-episode.
Wrap-Up: Keep It Clean, Keep It Simple
Audio quality isn’t about perfection - it’s about clarity, consistency, and control. Practice your mic technique, know your recording environment, and build a post-production checklist that keeps you honest.
Want help dialing in your podcast production? Book a free strategy session with Studio 1878 and get expert support to make your show sound as good as it should.
