Ultimate Home Podcast Studio Set-Up for 2022

Ultimate Home Podcast Studio Set-Up for 2022

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Podcast Setup 2.1 The Microphones 2.2 The Road Caster Pro 2.3 Customizing Sound Effects 2.4 Pod Mics and Pop Screens 2.5 Monitoring with Sony Headphones 2.6 The Importance of a Ready-to-Go Setup
3. Filming the Podcast 3.1 Utilizing Multiple Camera Angles 3.2 The Main Camera: Sony A7SIII 3.3 Secondary Camera: Sony A7RIV 3.4 Third Camera: Sony A6400 3.5 Tripods and Joby Ball Heads 3.6 Shooting in 1080p and S-Log
4. Editing Workflow and Utility LUTs 4.1 Using Utility LUTs for S-Log 4.2 Streamlining the Editing Process
5. Lighting the Set 5.1 The Key Light: Godox VL 150 5.2 Practical Lights and Smart Bulbs 5.3 Designing the Set for Camera
6. Furniture and Set Design 6.1 Choosing Functional and Stylish Furniture 6.2 The Importance of a Cozy Atmosphere 6.3 Personalized Touches and Decorations
7. Conclusion

The Podcast Setup

Setting up a podcast requires careful consideration of various elements, from the microphones to the recording equipment. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the podcast setup employed by Chris and Patrick, hosts of the popular podcast "Tuxedo Time." We will explore the equipment used, the filming techniques employed, and the overall aesthetic of their podcast set. Whether You're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this article will provide valuable insights and inspiration for creating your own professional podcast setup.

1. Introduction

Podcasting has become a significant medium for information sharing and entertainment. As more and more individuals venture into podcasting, the need for a well-equipped and visually appealing podcast setup becomes paramount. In this article, we will Delve into the intricacies of designing and arranging a podcast set that not only provides excellent audio quality but also creates an engaging visual experience for the audience.

2. The Podcast Setup

2.1 The Microphones

The cornerstone of any podcast setup is the microphone. Chris and Patrick use the versatile and high-quality Pod Mics by Rode. These microphones offer exceptional sound capture, reducing background noise and enhancing vocal Clarity. The Pod Mics come equipped with built-in pop screens to minimize plosive sounds. However, to further enhance audio quality, Chris and Patrick have added mini pop screens, ensuring a crisp and professional sound.

2.2 The Road Caster Pro

To streamline their recording process and improve audio production, Chris and Patrick utilize the Road Caster Pro. This device acts as the central hub for all their microphones, enabling seamless recording and control over various audio settings. The Road Caster Pro features four XLR mic inputs, as well as USB, auxiliary, and Bluetooth inputs. Its built-in compressors and sound effects further enhance the audio output, resulting in a professional-sounding podcast.

2.3 Customizing Sound Effects

Chris and Patrick have customized sound effects on their Road Caster Pro, adding a touch of personality to their podcast episodes. From jingles for different segments to the "sad trombone" sound, these customized sound effects add an element of fun and professionalism to their podcast. By having these pre-programmed on the device, they eliminate the need for extensive post-production editing and reduce the time required to produce an episode.

2.4 Pod Mics and Pop Screens

While the Pod Mics come with built-in pop screens, Chris and Patrick have found that adding mini pop screens provides an extra layer of protection against plosive sounds. By mounting these pop screens onto their PSA name boom arms, they ensure optimal audio quality during recording. This Attention to Detail showcases their commitment to delivering a polished and professional podcast.

2.5 Monitoring with Sony Headphones

To ensure audio quality throughout their recording Sessions, Chris and Patrick use Sony headphones, specifically the WNL 3S model. These headphones allow them to monitor their audio in real-time, ensuring that everything sounds okay during the recording process. By continuously monitoring their audio, they can address any issues or adjust levels as necessary, resulting in a high-quality final product.

2.6 The Importance of a Ready-to-Go Setup

One of the key aspects of Chris and Patrick's podcast setup is its accessibility and readiness. They have designed their podcast set to be ready at all times, ensuring that when inspiration strikes or the time for recording arrives, there are no barriers in their way. This approach eliminates the need for cumbersome setup procedures and increases the likelihood of consistent podcast production.

3. Filming the Podcast

To enhance the podcast experience further, Chris and Patrick have integrated videography into their podcasting setup. By incorporating multiple camera angles, they provide viewers with a visually immersive experience. The following sections delve into the specifics of their filming techniques and camera choices.

3.1 Utilizing Multiple Camera Angles

Chris and Patrick believe that utilizing multiple camera angles adds a dynamic element to their podcast episodes. By switching between different camera views, they keep the visual aspect engaging and offer viewers a more comprehensive experience. This technique also allows them to capture different perspectives and reactions from both hosts, enhancing the overall storytelling potential.

3.2 The Main Camera: Sony A7SIII

The main camera used in Chris and Patrick's podcast setup is the Sony A7SIII. This camera, combined with a 16-35mm lens, offers a wide perspective, capturing both hosts in the frame. The A7SIII's exceptional low-light performance ensures crisp and detailed footage, even in dimly lit environments. This camera serves as the primary angle for their podcast episodes, providing a central point of focus and ensuring optimum visual quality.

3.3 Secondary Camera: Sony A7RIV

In addition to the main camera, Chris and Patrick employ the Sony A7RIV as a secondary angle. While primarily used as a still photography camera, the A7RIV delivers impressive video quality. With its high-resolution sensor and sharp image rendering, this camera provides an additional perspective, offering variety and visual interest to their podcast episodes.

3.4 Third Camera: Sony A6400

To capture close-ups and individual reactions, Chris and Patrick utilize the Sony A6400 equipped with a 50mm lens. This camera, with its crop sensor, offers a tighter field of view, allowing for detailed shots of individual hosts. By incorporating the A6400 into their filming setup, they can switch between wider shots and close-ups seamlessly, providing viewers with a diverse visual experience.

3.5 Tripods and Joby Ball Heads

To ensure stability and versatility in their camera setup, Chris and Patrick rely on tripods equipped with Joby 5k ball heads. This combination allows for smooth and precise camera movement while maintaining stability during filming. By using Joby ball heads, they can easily switch between cameras without the need for plate changes, saving time and streamlining the filming process.

3.6 Shooting in 1080p and S-Log

Due to the duration of their podcast recordings, Chris and Patrick choose to shoot in 1080p instead of 4K. This decision minimizes file sizes and reduces the strain on post-production workflows. Additionally, they shoot in S-Log, a logarithmic profile that provides a wide dynamic range, creating more flexibility in color grading and post-processing. By utilizing these settings, they achieve a consistent and visually appealing look for their podcast episodes.

4. Editing Workflow and Utility LUTs

After filming their podcast episodes, Chris and Patrick embark on the editing process, optimizing their footage for a polished and professional final product. In this section, we will discuss their editing workflow and the use of Utility LUTs to enhance their video quality.

4.1 Using Utility LUTs for S-Log

To maximize the potential of their S-Log footage, Chris and Patrick have developed a set of Utility LUTs specifically designed for their editing workflow. These LUTs enable them to achieve consistent and accurate colors across their footage, while also preserving the dynamic range captured in the S-Log profile. By utilizing these LUTs, they streamline their color grading process and ensure a visually pleasing end result.

4.2 Streamlining the Editing Process

Efficiency is key when it comes to editing podcasts, especially considering the frequency of Chris and Patrick's uploads. To streamline their editing process, they take AdVantage of the features and capabilities of the Road Caster Pro. By recording directly onto a micro SD card, they eliminate the need for extensive audio post-processing. The Road Caster Pro's built-in compressors and sound effects also contribute to the overall efficiency, reducing the time required for editing and finalizing each episode.

5. Lighting the Set

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the desired atmosphere and visual appeal of any podcast setup. Chris and Patrick have put careful thought into the lighting design and placement within their podcast set, ensuring optimal illumination without compromising the cozy living room ambiance.

5.1 The Key Light: Godox VL 150

The key light in Chris and Patrick's podcast setup is the Godox VL 150. This light source, attached to the floor joists, provides a soft and diffused illumination throughout the set. The VL 150 is a powerful LED light with adjustable brightness and temperature settings, ensuring that the hosts are well-lit and their facial expressions are clearly visible. Its compact size and versatility make it an ideal choice for podcast lighting.

5.2 Practical Lights and Smart Bulbs

To further enhance the living room ambiance, Chris and Patrick incorporate practical lights and smart bulbs into their podcast set. They utilize standard floor lamps, such as the ones from EQ3, to add warm and inviting light to the set. Additionally, they employ Aputure B7C smart bulbs, which can be controlled via an app. These smart bulbs offer flicker-free operation and allow for adjustments in color temperature and ambiance, creating a visually pleasing atmosphere on camera.

5.3 Designing the Set for Camera

While creating a podcast set that resembles a cozy living room, Chris and Patrick also keep in mind its visual appeal on camera. By strategically placing light sources and using light modifiers, such as small light domes, they ensure that the set is well-illuminated without any distracting glare or shadows. Their attention to detail in designing the lighting setup allows for a visually captivating podcast experience.

6. Furniture and Set Design

Creating a comfortable and visually appealing podcast set involves carefully selecting the right furniture and decorations. In this section, we will explore the furniture choices made by Chris and Patrick and how they contribute to the overall aesthetic of their podcast setup.

6.1 Choosing Functional and Stylish Furniture

Chris and Patrick have chosen furniture that combines functionality with modern style. The Jane Bisectional by Gus Modern serves as their primary seating arrangement, featuring a navy velvet upholstery that adds a touch of elegance to the set. The GT Rocker, also by Gus Modern, complements the overall design and offers a comfortable seating option for their podcast recordings.

6.2 The Importance of a Cozy Atmosphere

To Create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, Chris and Patrick have incorporated various elements into their podcast set. They have added rugs, such as the flat woven rug from Article, to anchor the space and enhance its coziness. Additionally, they use pillows and blankets from various sources, such as Arctic from the Finished Design Shop and Target, to provide comfort and homeliness.

6.3 Personalized Touches and Decorations

To infuse their podcast set with their unique personalities, Chris and Patrick have included personalized touches and decorations. They have adorned the shelves with books on architecture, prints, and cameras that reflect their interests. This attention to detail adds depth and character to the overall aesthetic of their podcast set.

7. Conclusion

Setting up a podcast can be a daunting task, but with careful consideration and attention to detail, it can become a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor. Chris and Patrick's podcast setup serves as a shining example of how a thoughtfully designed and equipped podcast set can enhance both the audio and visual aspects of a podcast. By following their footsteps and incorporating the right equipment, filming techniques, lighting design, and furniture choices, podcasters can create a professional and engaging podcast setup that captivates their audience.