When we talk about starting a podcast, one of the things you should consider from the beginning is where you are going to record it. The audio quality of the podcast is as important as the content so you should spend some time figuring out what will work best for you with what you have in mind.
Budget
Yes! Let’s get straight to the point. To rent a recording studio, you need to consider the budget you have available and the services you need to include. For example, the perfect studio will offer a place to record, high-quality equipment, editing services, a producer, etc. Of course, each additional service will increase the final price, so you need to start with the basics.
Make a list of all the things you can do by yourself and things you need to hire a professional to do. Once you have a list ready, start your research by prioritizing all the things that need to be done by a professional.
Location
Depending on where you are based, pick a studio that has a convenient location. Remember that picking a cheap place far from the city could mean the same as picking a moderately priced studio in the city centre, if you consider the commute time and transport costs. Also, keep in mind that you might have guests and it should be easy enough for them to be able to find the place, wherever they are.
Facilities and Equipment
Once you have found what could be the perfect studio to record your next podcast, it is important to go and see the place. Remember pictures will always look good on the website, but you need to make sure the place has exactly what you need. Some places offer a tour, which will help you make sure that you are picking the right studio.
If you are not very familiar with the equipment, this tour can help you see what they have to offer. Have a list of questions ready for when you meet them and make sure you ask as much as you need.
Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when you go to tour a studio:
- Ask if you can see the recording booths and check how many people can fit in each of them. This is particularly important if you are planning to have guests.
- The control rooms are also important as you should be able to see how the work is done behind the scenes, and if they have any other services available, such as remote recording.
- Ask if they offer video content too. The tendency nowadays is to have video podcasts, so it is a good idea to find a recording studio that can produce audio and video at the same time.
Reputation and history
It is important to know how reliable your chosen studio is. They might have loyal, high profile clients, and if that’s the case you will probably find the list on their websites. You can also check the reviews on social media sites, like Facebook and Google. Most people will leave a review telling their entire experience with the place when they are not happy with the service.
Once the studio has checked all these boxes and you are happy with it, it is time to book it!
At The Podcast Studios we work with companies, organisations, and individuals to help them tell their stories in audio form. If there is any part of your podcast journey that needs a professional touch, from start to finish, get in touch today by contacting us at [email protected] or visit our website at www.thepodcaststudios.ie
