Best Audio Interface For Podcasting
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ส.ค. 2024
- What's the best audio interface for #podcasting? In this video I discuss several audio interfaces for podcasters on any budget. If you merely want to connect to a host remotely, a solo XLR input interface can work well. There are plenty of podcast audio interfaces in that style I can highly recommend. The M-Audio Air 192-4 has excellent preamps. The Audient EVO 4 sounds fantastic . The Focusrite Solo delivers a combination of good quality and affordability. For those on a tight budget, I've had a good experience with the Behringer UMC22. Keep in mind that the UMC22 does not provide a lot of gain and it tops out at 16bit. For me that's a sticking point that would make me save up more money for a device that can provide 24 bit quality.
When it comes to podcast audio interfaces that can do it all I have owned the RODECaster Pro, RODECaster Pro 2 and the Mixcast 4. I would place the RODECaster Pro 2 at the very top of the podcast audio interface pile while the Mixcast 4 would be second ahead of the original RODECaster Pro.
What are you thoughts on the best podcast audio interface? List your favorites in the comments.
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The mixcast 4 is exceptionally good and I have had no problems using it
Glad there are others who share my Mixcast 4 love. I feel like it gets a lot less love than it should.
I have the P4 for remotes and the P8 on my desk, for my "studio" I have the Mixcast 4. All have great preamps and all do everything I need to do, I just like the looks of the Mixcast better :) All let me take call-ins during a live broadcast
That's a great group of gear on your desk Dale! The Mixcast is a sleek piece of kit indeed. Love the lights but I'm sure you can tell I like RGB. LOL!
That's fun to take call-ins, however I have been trolled plenty of times live. :)
Thanks for all your reviews though out 2022. All the best for 2023 🤲🏿🙏🏿👊🏿 from the 🇬🇧 stay blessed
Thank you so much for this encouraging comment! It is my pleasure to share these videos. I'm working hard to make my videos better and better. I've learned a lot over this past year (and made a ton of mistakes early on) but I've learned all along the way.
I hope 2023 is a terrific year for you as well. Thank you again for watching and commenting. It means a lot to me.
Thanks Hank. The Wave XLR is also excellent in the sub $200 category and is not getting the attention it deserves. Ton of gain, clean preamps, easily drives an SM7B, and has easy to use software included. I chose this over a RCP2 which would be overkill for my use case (and desk space) but I love the onboard sound processing. I'm waiting for a RCP "mini" or "solo."
I've heard nothing but excellent things about the Wave XLR. I hope to try one at some point.
There has to be a RCP mini or a Mixcast mini. It simply makes too much sense for it not to happen. That market could be huge!
Thanks for commenting.
Great advice as always! I am currently using the Mixcast 4, and love it. However, I am thinking about springing for the latest Rodecaster Pro 2 because of its improvments! :)
Thank you! I love the Mixcast 4 and wish even more people would give it the credit it deserves. The RCP 2 is an amazing device without a doubt. If you have a need for the routing, etc there is no doubt you'll love it. Your comment is greatly appreciated.
After owning an Evo4 for a while now there are a few things to note.
1. Their software is very limited and doesn't help with anything apart from volume.
2. When I bring my phone close to the interface (because it's on my desk) there is a strange buzzing that occurs
3. The customer support is basically non-existent
4. If you're streaming with this, sometimes it will completely mess up all your audio by making it static or off pitch, and if you have a low viewer count, nobody is gonna be telling you that your audio is messed up
6. Rather than having a simple reset button on the device or in the software, there was an issue where the audio was only coming out of 1 ear (yes there is panning, but they don't tell you about this in any documentation) so after seeking support and not receiving any, I found a very specific file from the app and deleted it, that solves my issue.
Overall, I would never suggest this to anyone, yes it's cheap, yes it works, but you'll be giving up a lot over time if you don't just save your money for a better one
Are you sure you don't have a bad unit? I have one and a cohost has as well for years with none of those issues. Can't speak to the customer support.
I currently have, and absolutely love, the Zoom Podtrack p4. I am totally blind, and find it super easy to use. I run an online radio station, and was able to replace a big traditional broadcast board with the Zoom. Only thing I really miss from that board is the ability to eq my voice and bring out a bit more bass. I don't have the budget for any of the Rodecasters. Is there any device on the affordable end that I could hook up to the p4 to eq my specific channel? I mostly broadcast solo, and guests are few and far between, so I'm not worried about all the mics, just mine. Since it's all live, I can't really eq in post. Thanks in advance for your help.
That is really awesome that you were able to replace a traditional broadcast board with the Zoom. I really like the P4 with my only gripe being it's not 24-Bit. I hope they update it at some point in the future.
You might have just come up with a million dollar idea! A compact EQ that works as a passthrough would be fantastic!
The only thing that comes to mind is the Behringer Sonic Exciter SX3040. I think they are a around $120. It has balanced inputs and outputs including 1/4" and XLR. I can't think of a reason why the P4 couldn't accept that signal. It is on the bulky side being in the rack mounted format. I just can't think of anything in a smaller format.
Excellent question though! This has my gears spinning. I'll try to ask around.
Both Tascam and Rodecaster Pro 2 are on sale in Canada, but the decision is still difficult. 600$ for the Tascam 4 and 830$ for the Rodecaster 2. With taxes, 690$ and around 970$.
I can definitely understand the decision being difficult. I feel like the RCP2 has much more longevity but the Mixcast 4 is good enough for the vast majority of people out there. I hope you are able to come to a decision that ends up being something you're happy with over the long haul. Both are solid devices.
Thank you for commenting.
Great video, thank you! Really think Timestamps would increase your Audience Retention & help you grow a lot more.
I will look into that. I'm conflicted on the subject because I haven't researched it.
@@FreePodcastTools the subject of timestamps? If so all you do is put timestamps into the description and TH-cam will automatically display them on your video. Just be sure to start at 0:00. Example of format below.
0:00 - Intro
2:45 - Unboxing
5:20 - Testing
7:14 - Final Thoughts.
If you format the above way and paste into the bottom of your description TH-cam does the rest. Hope this helps!
@@RusticMapleDesign just curious how it helps people grow when it seems like a tool to skip content. I'm ignorant on the topic that's why I want to look further into it as it pertains to watch time and retention.
@@FreePodcastTools It would merely bring in some of those with less of an attention span or someone coming to your video with a purpose. As an example: someone is researching say the Evo 4 and they come across your video. They will likely click off after watching for less then a minute as they don’t want to skip through your video to find what they came for. You would likely retain this viewer longer if you had a timestamp labeled “Evo 4” or something along those lines. Another positive is SEO improvement as I believe Google stated Timestamps are used in SEO analytics.
There is no reason not to really as it adds to the professional feel and may even make people come back for reference or rewatch certain parts of your videos.
@@RusticMapleDesign thank you for bringing this up. I'm watching videos on people talking about it now.
Hi. My friend and I are planning to start recording podcasts together, but we can't agree on whether the quality difference between expensive and affordable microphones is really necessary. I suggest buying at least an RE20 or an SM7B, while my friend prefers microphones in the Podmic price range. Do you think the difference between these two microphones would be noticeable for listeners? Do you think we should go all out and choose established, high-end products, or would more budget-friendly microphones suffice? Thank you for your recommendations. Please help me, I've been sleepless for four days, researching only this topic. I admit that I am overly obsessed, but I want to do my job properly and cleanly. I am very talkative and warm-hearted, never hesitant to laugh, and I usually laugh a lot. I used to do Twitch streaming before, so I have knowledge about how to gain viewers. Now, I want to sleep, please tell me which microphone and sound card I should get.
Keep it budget friendly! Do not think you have to buy expensive gear to deliver a great podcast.
I have a video coming up where I will prove this.
I recommend the microphone from Zoom called the ZDM-1. They are $49 each and sound GREAT! look at my reviews/comparisons for these mics.
For audio interfaces, there's no real reason to spend more than $130 per device. I recommend the EVO 4 by Audient and the M-Audio Air 192-4. I've reviewed both on my channel. I'd lean towards the EVO 4 because it has a mute button on it. If $130 feels too pricey, check out the Behringer U-Phoria UMC22. It's a solid interface that is priced affordably.
I wouldn't buy top line gear UNTIL you are 1000% sure you will be podcasting for years to come. Your audience will not hear much, if any, difference at all.
Hey, I have this specific use case that:
1 mac for audio input
1pc for audio input
1 xlr mic for input for both workstations (switching)
1 rca speakers for those 2 workstation for output purposes
Can output both sounds to the rca speakers (fade volume in between)
I need an interface that can take the input 2 workstations as well as an xlr mic and output it to the rca speakers
Im looking at rode streamer x but i cant seem to find a video/forum that answer if its possible. Any interface you can recommend? Thanks!!
The Streamer X doesn't have monitor outputs but it does have two headphone outputs. Needing dual USB will limit your options greatly as it's pretty rare. It's even more rare to have dual USB and monitor outputs.
Check out the Connect 6: amzn.to/3RTHHxl
RODECaster Duo: amzn.to/3LeUdDN
There are plenty of cable connectors that can take you from 1/4" to RCA but you'll have to look them up to see what works best.
Ultimately you have to make the decision on what will work for your needs in case I interpret what you are looking for incorrectly.
I didnt love the Mixcast 4 sadly.... But the more it comes down in price.. The better it looks.
I saw it for 299.99 for one day! I was shocked! I can't find it again though. At 399.99 it's a good value. I still wish that Mackie device would go down to 199 or so.
Thanks for checking out the video.
Hello Sir, I checked all your videos and I will buy Tascam Mixcast 4 I think. But I prefer to ask you before, I am doing podcasting with two mics, in livestream without latency or a feature that sync video real time, that have strong mic processing, that connect with my sony fx30, and that works without software active.
Can you advice me please sir ?
Best regards,
Nadir.
Unfortunately, my expertise is focused squarely around audio podcasting. I'm not in the know about devices that you can use a camera with directly. I know Curtis Judd and Tom Buck are video experts in this space.
Teyun Q 12 is pretty great for the price, $30, good preamps, and 2 XLR ports. I keep it in my go bag as a backup just in cast I have an issue with the P4
I'm going to go look that device up right now. Thank you for mentioning it. It's always good to know about more affordable gear.
@@FreePodcastTools I blame Obscure Mics for me owning that. It was his review that got me to buy it
@@dalebishop2632 he's awesome! We may do a collaboration in the future if things line up. There was a handheld mic he reviewed that looked like an Earthworks design but it was out of stock or I would have bought it on the spot. He brings to light plenty of items that would be otherwise overlooked.
Thanks for the video, I've been doing days and days of researching trying to find what's best for what we're wanting to do. Basically do voice work for youtube videos and maybe some voiceover work. Based on your video, I went with the Mixcaster 4. I was really trying to decide between the Volt 276, Focusrite Vocaster2, mixcaster4 and the Sterling H224. As far as I can tell, I can't get the Mixcaster to send audio to the computer to record from the mics. Do we need to get a dedicated interface that inputs directly to the computer? Well off to do more research to see what I can figure out! 🤣
Hi. The Mixcast 4 is a 14 in and 2 out audio interface. Meaning once you plug it into your computer it will take all 4 mics, bluetooth, trrs, sound pads, etc and send all that to you computer as a stereo mix output (right/left). The device is an interface so there's no need to buy another device with the Tascam Mixcast 4.
@@FreePodcastTools So we using this for podcast/videos, what is the best daw to use that works with this? So much stuff out there, mind boggling. Not taking any calls. Just 2 people and 2 mics, no video feed
@@av8ist It's a 2-channel stereo out interface so even the free Audacity will work just fine with the device.
so where do we then have zoom p8 in betwen those ?
I limited my discussion to devices I've used. I've heard good things about it though.
I have a question for you, I’m an Android, Samsung S21 user and when I’m connected to my Tascam Mixcast 4 firmware version 1.30 through Bluetooth I will suddenly loose the ability to hear others through the headset, but they can still hear me. I can still hear myself talk.
My temporary solution is to disconnect Bluetooth from my phone and reconnect it or to turn the unit the Tascam Mixcast 4 off and then back on. Sometimes this will happen multiple times and then I can talk for hours with no problems, is this a Bluetooth problem with my phone or a mixcast 4 problem? Have you had this problem?
Other than this, the Tascam is perfect. My wife has no problem with Bluetooth on her Rodecaster pro 2, but she is also an Apple user the Apple 13 max. I have to have this sorted out before Jan 28th 2023. Thank you in advance.
I have not had connection issues via Bluetooth with my Mixcast 4, but I don't connect to it that frequently.
I'm not familiar with the Bluetooth protocol for the Samsung S21, however the Mixcast 4 uses A2DP protocol which some devices won't play nicely with. Can you reach out to your phone service provider or even Samsung to find out what bluetooth profiles your particular phone will play nicely with? They will know if that phone works well with A2DP or not.
The RCP2 being a bit newer connects flawlessly to any device I've paired it with.
I hope that helps you get pointed in the right direction.
@@FreePodcastTools Yes it did, I have that Usb/TRRS cable that you advertised earlier on order from Amazon. Thank you very much and I will check the protocol. Unfortunately my phone does support the A2DP protocol, I guess, just not that well with this device. I will have to work it out as I don't want to send it back because I bought it for 299 at B&H during the holidays. It looks like it will be a line connection for me.
@@sidvicious3129 glad to be of some help. It's disappointing that the bluetooth won't cooperate but at least you've thought of a workaround. $299? That's an AMAZING price! Wow!
Curious if anyone has experience with the UA Volt units?
New subscriber. I want start a podcast for 4 people in the same room . What interface would you suggest? Thank you
The Zoom P4 is a good option on a budget. Mixcast 4 is better if the budget allows. RODECaster Pro 2 would be best but is very price. So it depends on your budget.
Hello great info, I have a 2 person podcast and we are on Streamyard live, on TH-cam we record for future watching. Which one do you think I should get..
Are you both in the same room when you record the two person podcast? Do you have a need for sound pads and hardware recording?
@@FreePodcastTools no we are not in the same room
@@marvelatthemovies9143 I'd just go with a typical interface if you don't have a need for sound pads and onboard recording. The EVO4 sounds fantastic and provides almost 60db of gain to drive a mic. The M-Audio Air 192-4 would be right up there but provides about 55db of mic gain. Those would be my top two interfaces because I've used both and highly recommend each.