Sometimes, what seems simple can turn into a complex and challenging task if not planned properly and with attention to detail. This is exactly the case with a podcast setup for two. A two-person podcast is not just about recording a casual conversation; it’s a purposeful opportunity to create engaging content and attract a larger audience.
Therefore, it must be crafted in a way that not only makes the content appealing and enjoyable but also ensures high audio quality. This is only achievable by using the most effective two-person podcast equipment, understanding how to arrange them, and following key tips to enhance the final quality.
No need to worry! The good news is that we at Studio 321 – a podcast studio rental in Dubai – have prepared this guide to make podcasting easier for you. So, stay with us until the end.
Essential Equipment for a Two-Person Podcast
The quality of a podcast is primarily tied to its equipment. In a two-person podcast, even the most engaging conversations won’t sound appealing without the right tools. In this section, we’ll introduce the most important two-person podcast equipment.
Microphones
Audio quality is a critical factor for a podcast’s success. To achieve pleasant and clear sound, investing in the right microphone is essential. For two-person podcasts, using a shared microphone is not recommended; each host should have their own dedicated microphone.
Types of Microphones by Functionality:
- Dynamic Microphones: Widely used, durable, affordable, and offer decent sound quality.
- Condenser Microphones: Ideal for professional studio-quality recordings, more expensive than dynamic microphones.
Recommended Models:
- Samson Q2U Microphone
An affordable and suitable option for beginners. This dynamic microphone is part of dual podcast microphones, connecting to both computers and audio interfaces. - Rode Wireless Micro
A wireless, lightweight, portable microphone with a reasonable price. It delivers high-quality audio recording and is compatible only with smartphones.
The Blue Yeti microphone is also a great option in this price range. - Shure SM7B
One of the best microphones for podcasting, this dynamic microphone requires an audio interface for connection. Popular among professional podcasters, it’s expensive but delivers unmatched sound quality.
Tip: Both microphones should be of the same type to ensure consistent audio quality for both voices.
Audio Interface
An audio interface enhances the sound quality of a podcast. It enables the connection of professional microphones (especially XLR types) to a computer and helps maintain the clarity of recorded audio.
For a podcast with two hosts, a single audio interface for two microphones is sufficient unless complex settings or real-time sound effects are required.
Recommended Models:
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo
Budget-friendly, ideal for beginners, limited to two inputs (not suitable for podcast setup for 3 or more). - Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Affordable, limited to two microphone inputs, features high-quality preamps and clear sound. Compact design and user-friendly. - Universal Audio Apollo Twin
Expensive, offers studio-quality sound, advanced preamps, and built-in DSP for real-time effects. Suitable for podcast setup for two or more.
Headphones
While headphones may not seem essential, they are crucial for understanding the true sound and improving its quality. We recommend preparing two pairs of the best headphones for podcasting.
Types of Headphones:
- Closed-Back Headphones: Provide excellent sound isolation, ideal for podcast recording.
- Open-Back Headphones: Allow air to pass through, better for mixing and editing, not suitable for recording.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Ideal for recording in noisy environments, as they eliminate unwanted sounds, helping you focus on the audio.
Recommended Models:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Affordable, durable, suitable for long sessions, but lacks sound isolation. - Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Reasonably priced, excellent clarity across low, mid, and high frequencies, portable, and delivers exceptional sound quality. - Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
Expensive, among the best headphones for podcasting, closed-back design, excellent sound isolation, ideal for long sessions and professional monitoring.
Microphone Arm and Pop Filter
Other essential two-person podcast equipment includes microphone arms and pop filters:
Microphone Stand
A microphone stand or arm holds the microphone at the right distance and height from the podcaster’s mouth. This practical tool ensures noise-free and clear audio recording.
Recommended Models:
- Samson MK10
Affordable, lightweight, durable, beginner-friendly, and portable. This stand offers reasonable height and is supported by a tripod base. - RODE PSA1 Microphone Studio Arm
Reasonably priced, excellent for podcasters, designed for desk mounting, with 360-degree rotation. - Ultimate Support MC-125
Expensive, tripod boom stand with locking mechanism, suitable for professionals, with a sturdy structure.
Pop Filter
A pop filter is a simple yet effective tool for improving audio clarity. It minimizes wind, breath, and plosive sounds, delivering clean audio.
Recommended Models:
- GOMILE Pop Filter
Highly affordable (~$10), decent arm but weak clamp, fragile design. - Sterling Audio STPF2
Reasonably priced, excellent performance, reliable and adjustable arm. - Stedman Proscreen XL
Expensive, professional, delivers clear sound, with a flexible metal arm and clamp, durable and washable.
Equipment Setup and Arrangement
After selecting the two-person podcast equipment, setting them up correctly is crucial to achieve the best possible audio quality. Here are some tips for arranging podcast equipment to ensure comfort for both hosts and enhance the overall quality:
Microphone and Stand Arrangement
- Place each microphone 6 to 12 inches from the podcaster to ensure clear audio capture. The distance should be consistent for both hosts.
- Angle the microphone slightly to prevent direct airflow, which can cause undesirable pronunciation of letters like ‘B’ and ‘P.’
- Adjust the microphone arm to avoid obstructing the other host’s view or hand movements.
Desk and Chair Arrangement
While the setup may vary for different podcasts, these tips are worth considering:
- Arrange the desk and chairs so that both podcasters face each other at a slight angle (this helps with podcast management during recording).
- Ensure adequate distance between chairs and surrounding walls to reduce sound reflections.
- Choose desks and chairs that produce minimal noise.
Lighting and Acoustic Treatment
Acoustic treatment for podcast studio can ensure recordings with minimal noise and environmental interference:
- Install acoustic foam panels on walls.
- Cover the floor with carpets or rugs to minimize sound reflections.
- For video podcast recording, a warm and simple decor enhances focus. Using ring lights and softboxes for professional lighting is recommended.
Cable Management
- Use high-quality, preferably short cables.
- Use cable clips or organizers to manage cables, preventing damage and maintaining a clean, professional environment.
Recording and Editing Tools
Podcast recording and editing tools are essential for a podcast setup for two. These software solutions, available with unique features and compatible with various operating systems, enable precise audio recording on computers and seamless editing. They allow you to remove unwanted noise, add sound effects, and create a polished ending to improve the final quality and deliver a cohesive output.
Best Recording and Editing Software:
- Audacity
Beginner-friendly, compatible with all platforms, offers free recording and editing tools (lacks advanced professional editing features). - Adobe Audition
Paid, professional podcast recording software, ideal for advanced editing and post-production mixing, compatible with all platforms, suitable for experienced podcasters. - Pro Tools
Expensive, requires high-end hardware, industry-leading audio production software, the best choice for podcasters seeking top-tier quality.
Key Tips for Recording a Two-Person or Multi-Person Podcast
Setting up a two-person or multi-person podcast may seem similar to recording a regular episode, but following certain key tips can significantly enhance the final quality and make the listening experience more enjoyable for the audience:
- Assign a Director: One person should take on the role of guiding the conversation, managing time, asking questions, and transitioning topics. This keeps the discussion dynamic, coherent, energetic, and on track.
- Prepare in Advance: Even professional podcasters don’t record without preparation. Always test microphones, review content, design the episode structure, and check audio settings beforehand.
- Take Breaks: If the podcast isn’t live, incorporate short breaks for hydration or organizing thoughts. This can improve the final performance quality.
- Ensure Equal Speaking Time: Some hosts are more energetic and take the lead, while others wait politely. Manage the conversation to ensure a natural flow and fair speaking time for all.
- Maintain Visual Contact: Ideally, all podcasters should be in the same room. This allows hosts to interpret facial expressions, body language, and gestures, improving coordination. For a 2 people podcast, hosts should face each other.
Conclusion + Additional Resources
This guide aims to help you choose the best options for a podcast setup for two based on your needs and available resources. Remember, a successful podcast starts with the right equipment and a focus on audio quality, transforming a simple conversation into professional, engaging content.
However, if you prefer to dive into podcasting without technical hassles and with greater speed, we at Podcast Studio in Dubai are here to support you with professional services (both fixed and mobile). Book your studio today and take a professional step toward podcast production. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences about podcast setup for 2 in the comments section.
Additional Resources:
We recommend reading the articles “What is a Podcast” and “How to Start a Podcast?” for more information.
FAQs: Podcast Setups for Two
1. Can a podcast have two hosts?
Yes, a podcast can have two hosts. This is a popular and effective format for engaging audiences, as it creates dynamic and captivating conversations.
2. How to film a podcast with two hosts?
For a 2 person video podcast setup, you can use camcorders. For remote recording, software like Riverside is a great option.
3. What equipment is needed for a two-person podcast?
For a 2 people podcast, you’ll need at least two microphones, a computer, two headphones, and recording/editing software. Depending on the microphone type, an audio interface may also be required.
