(Part 2) Top products from r/audiodrama

Hi, I'm the co-editor for podcast production and I think I may be able to help with your questions.

Mics: Depending on your current recording space you have 2 options, Condenser or Dynamic Microphones. Condenser mics are very good at picking up detailed sound but they are most of the time to sensitive to be used without some sort of sound proofing or acoustic treatment to the room as they are really good at picking up even the quietest of sounds. but if you have a treated room or a acoustic shield then that might be an option to look into. Dynamic mics however are really good at capturing loud sounds and because of that, they are mostly used for singing and instruments. however they are also often used for narration because you don't have to go all out with the sound proofing as they are less sensitive. now since my talents are in post production, I don't need an expensive microphone to get a good sounding recording, so I just use a $20 Dynamic microphone from amazon, they're great in fact I bought 4 of them for a podcast I was doing, I can give samples if you would like. As for price, Condenser are on average going to cost more because of everything that goes into it. Dynamic mics are older tech, so they aren't as expensive. my friend who does the vocal recordings has the Rode NT1a, a rather expensive condenser microphone $229, and I record using the Behringer Xm8500 Dynamic mic $20 on amazon. so it's really up to your budget and editing know how.

Rode NT1a

Xm8500

You will also need a audio interface if you're going to be using XLR mics, which I highly recommend you do. Here's the one I use, although you may not need that many channels

​

Software: I use Adobe Audition around $20 a month subscription. However I have in the past used Audacity and if you know how to use it, you can get some really good results. If you are looking to get into industry standard software I would recommend Pro Tools also I think $20 a month.

​

Yes, people who don't use a studio generally record to their preferred Audio editor and mix/edit then upload to a hosting website for their podcast, the production I work for uses Blogtalk which I think has a free option. However there are many options for hosting websites (E.g. Acast, Podbean, Libsyn, Ect.) I recommend reading this website for hosting options.

​

People typically find voice actors through Casting Calls which they themselves set up or by going through a casting call website, and yes voice actors are typically paid although some may offer volunteer if they're just getting out there or for charity. For the sake of professionalism always assume you are paying for their services, that way if they decline payment then that's their choice as an actor.

​

If your podcast gains enough listeners then yes, you can definaty make money through podcasting, but you should never go only for making money. because one, it takes a while ti gain listeners and two it's just no fun if your only in it for the money.

​

I remember being exactly where you are now asking these questions, so If you need any help don't hesitate to ask. I hope this helps :)

​

​

TL,DR

Mics: I use a $20 Dynamic mic which gives me great recordings, although there are more expensive and higher quality options out there.

Software: I use Adobe Audition to edit everything but there are a myriad of other audio editing options out there including the free software Audacity.

Yes it can be as simple as Record/Edit/Post depending on what your doing and the type of podcast your going for.

You find actors through casting calls, and typically you always pay actors for their services. Always expect to pay.

Yes you can make money through podcasting depending on your listenership and Ads and things like that.

I'm embarrassed that I forgot to include your website as a resource because it is a wonderful contribution to the art form and audio drama community! I have updated the article to include it. :)

You can pick up the Mind's Eye LOTR series on CD here: https://www.amazon.com/J-R-R-Tolkiens-Celebrated-Trilogy-Rings/dp/1559351209/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_img_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=0RN8ZETSMEN7AKYJJ6JM

I like your idea of a pre-podcast section, too.

Jeff Green was really stretching his wings out and I enjoy how playful and far out he was willing to take it.

Until I tuned into WSIU, I had wrongly assumed that audio drama was essentially dead outside of OTR tapes in truck stops. Imagine my surprise to find such amazing works like the ZBS catalog, imports from the BBC & CBC, and much more. It was mind-boggling to say the least. :)

Thanks again for your contributions and work behind the scenes as well. My own involvement in helping create audio drama is a dream come true.

This - $58.99

This - $99.00

This - the one with the stand ($48.00)

and This - $12.50

Total: $218.49

The "soundproof shield" on the mic stand isn't enough. The only reason I say you should get it is because it will allow you to hang a blanket over your mic. You want something heavy with a cotton-like, or very dense surface. You can hang the blanket there and "duck in" to do your voice work. You can take a phone in with your lines on it so you don't have to duck in and out so much. The point is that there is no such thing as a good mic that doesn't need soundproofing, period.

With this condenser mic, good soundproofing (blanket), and the heavy pop filter, you will be surprised at the quality. The Behringer audio interface is basically an amp, you know, and it's totally fine for voice work. And remember, this is NOT a USB mic! It NEEDS an audio interface.

I realize it's more than the option already presented, but it's just so worth it. It really is so much about that blanket. The fact is if you want to sound pro without spending pro money, you need to stick your head in there and just put up with that. The results are 100% worth it.

One other thing: if you find that pop filter isn't enough, and you're still hearing "mouth clicks" (this setup, without filter, will pick up every little sound the inside of your mouth makes -- and the inside of your mouth actually makes a LOT of unintended noise, if you didn't know it), start layering on thin nylon fabric (panty hose will work) until it's gone to your satisfaction.

Here's me using this exact setup (I have tried other inexpensive setups!)

https://soundcloud.com/dan-williams-214914755/credits-1/s-881qi?in=dan-williams-214914755/sets/a-house-in-wayward-canyon/s-cfvoq

You might also like the Inspector Morse revival called Endeavor. https://www.amazon.com/Girl/dp/B00DUUKYFI/ref=sr_1_2?s=instant-video&ie=UTF8&qid=1536510026&sr=1-2&keywords=inspector+morse+on+prime+video

I need to rewatch Father Brown myself!

Yes, it's available on CD and digital download. Amazon and Audible have it, among other places.