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What defines a good podcast? Make
no mistake -- there is a difference between a
good podcast and a not-so-good podcast. A high-caliber
podcast is much more than just decent content.
The sound quality, and the way a podcast is recorded,
will impact the value of the podcast as well.
Podcast structure and pre-planning are also important;
do not skimp on the production, as it too can
make or break a podcast.
Podcast production takes effort,
but anything worth doing is worth doing right.
Use these tips to help produce a quality podcast
that will be distinguished above other related
podcasts...
1. Invest In A Good Microphone
A gritty sounding podcast is tantamount
to a radio station that can't be tuned in completely.
Poor quality podcasts are not going to be tolerated,
and listeners will simply unsubscribe rather than
being subjected to a poor quality recording. There
are a variety of microphones available, and different
types are designed for different situations. Find
a microphone that suits your recording environment.
Sound quality really does matter.
2. Distance Matters
Maintain a consistent distance
from the microphone while recording -- this will
ensure the recording volume is consistent throughout.
If you find this challenging, you may wish to
consider a microphone that is on a headset, as
that will help insure a consistent distance during
the recording.
3. Inflections
Use voice inflections to show emotion
and to emphasize points and opinions. The inflections
can add character and humor to broadcasts. Listeners
will catch on to any enthusiasm, but will often
tune-out monotones.
4. Polish It
Add an image and background music
to your podcast to make it stand out. Those small
additions will help distinguish your podcast from
competing podcast listings in the podcast directories.
5. Use Editing Software
Use audio editing software to remove
any recording defects or errors. Remove any long
pauses or sound artifacts that might occur during
the recording.
6. Minimize Background Noise
Find a secluded spot to record your
show; this will help minimize background noises.
Use the same spot to record each show, which will
result in continuity in recordings.
7. Test
Prior to recording, conduct an audio
test to make sure that the sound quality is acceptable
and background noise is minimal.
8. Break It Up
Record longer shows in short segments;
this will make the final editing process easier.
9. Add Transitions
Use software to add transitional
sound effects between show segments. Additionally,
add background music, theme music, or overlays
between the show segments to spice up the podcast.
10. Format
Each show in a podcast series should
follow a prescribed format. All shows in a series
should be similar in length. Try not to stray
too far from the preplanned format, as listeners
will come to expect it.
Podcasting is becoming more and
more popular. In order to differentiate your podcast
and make it stand out from others in the same
sector, use these top 10 tips.
About the Author:
Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll
http://www.feedforall.com
software for creating, editing, publishing RSS
feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages
marketing for RecordForAll http://www.recordforall.com
audio recording and editing software.
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