EDIT: This guide has been updated to include a new feature on Zoom.us labeled “Enable Original Audio.” This feature removes ducking and compression from your calls for a higher fidelity raw recording.
Remote recording has always been a staple for podcasters. It’s extremely convenient to be able to speak with anyone in the world from the comfort of your own office (or home). However, steps need to be taken to ensure the highest audio quality possible when recording remotely. A few small things can go a long way to keeping your podcast sounding professional, and keeping your listeners happy.
Variances
A few things in this checklist will differ from person to person, depending on your recording setup. For example, if you record using the Zoom H6 device (yes, different device with the same name, I know…), you’ll want to feed your call audio into the H6 while simultaneously recording the Zoom.us call itself. If you use the ATR-2100 mic, you’ll want to record a local backup using QuickTime (or Voice Recorder for Windows), while simultaneously recording the Zoom.us call.
At the end of the page is also a PDF download of the checklist for you to take with you. We suggest printing this out and leaving it on your desk for easy reference before each recording.
There is also a YouTube playlist of setup videos detailing visually how to set up the Zoom app, as well as connecting devices such as the ATR-2100 USB microphone for recording.
This guide has been written using Zoom.us for remote recordings, but settings should be similar on other apps.
Looking for more detail?
We have a complete walkthrough including instructions for the RODECaster Pro, ATR-2100, and Zoom H6.
For You
Restart your computer
Close any apps that open automatically (Dropbox, VPN, etc.)
Opt for a wired ethernet connection in place of WiFi
Go to Zoom.us > My Account > Settings > “In Meeting (Advanced)”
Enable the option to “Allow users to select original sound during a meeting”
Open the Zoom.us app
Open Zoom > Preferences > Audio
Confirm that you have the correct microphone/speaker settings for your chosen recording device
Confirm that you have enabled “Show in-meeting option to Enable Original Sound” from microphone
Open Zoom > Preferences > Recording
Confirm that you have chosen to “Record a separate audio file for each participant”
Wear headphones
Check your gain & volume levels on your recording device
Ensure that your recording device has enough space for a new recording (SD card storage space)
Double check that Zoom.us is recording your meeting
Double check that the Zoom meeting window has “original sound” enabled
When enabled, the button will read “Turn off original sound”
Double check that your recording device is also recording
Keep water nearby
Close all doors/windows and turn off fans or noisy appliances
Turn off your phone (or use airplane mode)
Practice good mic technique: stay about a fist’s length away from your mic, and lean back when laughing or speaking loudly to avoid clipping
For Your Guest
Ask them to wear headphones
If they don’t have a microphone, ask them to use their iPhone Earbuds - we do not recommend using Bluetooth headphones
For extra street cred, ship them a mic!
Ask them to look in the Zoom meeting window for the “original sound” button, and enable it
When enabled, the button will read “Turn off original sound”
If your guest is using a desktop or laptop, ask them to:
Restart their computer
Close all apps (and any that open automatically)
Turn off notifications (especially email dings!)
Other Things to Consider
If you’re unable to use ethernet and must use WiFi, we recommend restarting your router 15-30 minutes before your recording
Keeping video on for your call can help create a more personal conversation with your guest; however, it uses more bandwidth. If you experience connection issues or lag, turn video off.
Conferencing apps like Zoom tend to “duck” audio when people are talking over one another - when possible try to refrain from interjecting
