What are the best settings for podcast audio?

The best audio settings for a podcast depend on several factors, including the recording equipment and the desired end result. Here are some general guidelines to help you achieve high-quality audio:
- Recording:
- Use a professional microphone
- Avoid using your built-in laptop or smartphone microphone
- Record in a quiet, acoustically treated room
- Keep the microphone close to your mouth (6-12 inches)
- Avoid clipping (going over 0 dB) or peaking (spikes in volume)
- Post-Production:
- Normalize audio levels
- Remove background noise and unwanted sounds
- Apply a gentle equalization (EQ) to improve frequency balance
- Apply a small amount of compression to even out volume levels
- Consider adding reverb to create a more spacious sound.
It is important to note that every podcast is unique, so feel free to experiment with different settings to find what works best for your particular needs.