Congratulations on making it to the big leagues! We’re honored to have you as a guest. Before we can have you on the show, we have a couple requirements. These requirements ensure our listeners are focusing on what you have to say, and not on the quality of your audio.

A Decent Microphone Setup

This doesn’t have to be anything too fancy, but a good mic is a must. If you don’t have one, here are a couple recommendations:

  • Audio-Technica ATR2100 ($80) – Sounds great as long as you’re no more than 2 inches away from it. Highly recommend a windscreen.
  • Rode Podcaster ($229) – This is what Robert and Chris started out with. Again, make sure to talk very close to the mic. No pop filter or windscreen needed.
  • Pyle-Pro PDMIC58 ($19) + Tascam 2×2 ($120) – This is a more complex setup, but an incredible value for the quality. You should only need a windscreen.

Keep in mind we can record for longer than two hours, so don’t plan on hand-holding your mic. We highly recommend a cheap boom and shock mount.

Good Mic Technique

We want you to sound good and be well represented. If you’re unsure what good mic technique is, take a look at this video. In short, get as close to your microphone as possible without blowing out (clipping) your audio when you talk, laugh, or cry.

Software Tools of the Trade

Skype  – To call in.
Audacity – To record your audio.

A Sample Recording

Send us a test recording. 30-60 seconds should work. This ensures you’re ready and can feel comfortable when recording. It also helps us give you tips to improve your audio if needed. Please make sure it’s at least a Mono 192kbps 44100 Mp3 file.


How to Record

Windows

Setup your gain and input levels.

  1. Cortana + Sound
    Cortana - Sound
  2. Sound Window – Recording Tab
    Select Microphone and press Properties at Bottom
    Sound---Recording-Tab
  3. Properties Window – Levels Tab
    Initial Recommendation: Adjust Microphone to 90. Leave Microphone Boost (if available) alone.
    Adjust as needed using Audacity feedback as a guide.
    MicProperties-LevelsTab
  4. Hit Ok when done.

Recording In Audacity

  1. Preferences – Device
    Recording Section – Channels: Mono
    Audacity-Mono
  2. Preferences – Recording
    Sampling Section – Default Sample Rate: 44100 Hz, Sample Format: 32-bit float
    Audacity-Sampling
  3. Save and Start Recording (Giant Red Button)