You have a show. You want to interview. You have guests locked down – and you need something to record what you do. There are a few options available – and not all platforms are created equal. However, these are the ones people who record interviews use to capture the audio necessary for their episodes.
Here are the most oft-used recording capture platforms offered for podcasters and interviewers:
Skype
This one is an introductory recording capture platform. The biggest positive for Skype is that it’s free to use. Plus, you can do video chats as well as audio. The biggest negatives are that you must have a third-party call recording platform (like Pamela or Amolto) and your sound quality will make your interview sound like a phone call.
Zencastr
You can use this platform for free – with limited recording time per month and up to two guests. If you would like, they also offer unlimited recording time and guests. The positive with this product is that it separates your track from the guest(s) tracks (to provide a more layered sound) – which makes for great sound quality. The negative is that many users have complained of inexplicable glitches resulting in whole interviews being eradicated. Many interviewers, though, love this audio-only product.
Ringr
Here is one of the most innovative audio-only tools in recording. One of the biggest positives is that you can record your interview over the phone from anywhere and it gives you pretty good sound quality. It also splits your track from your guest’s recording to, once again, provide the layered, balanced sound. The negative is that Ringr, at times, can sound as though you are speaking though a pipe. As good as the quality can be, the overall sound quality is not totally top-notch. Most who use the product, though, love it. You have to subscribe in order to use it.
Google Hangouts
Here is another free tool, and it is versatile. You can capture audio-only or via video. Just like Skype, you would need a call recording third-party capture (like Movavi, as an example). The sound quality from those who don’t use microphones sounds great – provided you use a headset that has a mic attached to it. It is a surprisingly sound recording capture to have.
UberConference
You have free options, and paid options. You can also choose a phone option or a computer option. If you are doing panels, this is your platform.
You can invite up to 10 people (unlimited time) for free. If you, and your guest, record from the computer mic setting – your sound quality will be absolutely excellent. Here are your negatives: Phone recordings sound the same as the quality doesn’t improve, and there are international fees if ‘phone’ is selected for mic choice So – encourage your guest to select ‘computer’ for mic choice (that option is free everywhere). It also comes in mono mp3 – so no track splitting.
Zoom
For track splitting, sound quality and video conferencing, this is the tool for you. You can layer tracks as it splits from you and your guest(s).
Plus, the sound quality is wonderful. The negative is that you were to record a panel, you can. However you have a 40-minute limit. Otherwise, you have to subscribe for the service. Phone charges do apply if you select to talk via phone as well (like UberConference). This service is worth your time to use – especially if you want to video conference your guest.
With all of these platforms: Make sure you go into the ‘Settings’ tab for every one, see if they have mic settings, and adjust accordingly. With many of these places, you need to select your mic setting so you can get the truest, richest sound of your voice for the recording possible. After all – your interviews are nothing short of an audio business card. Sound your best with these tools at your disposal.
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If you would to take that interview recorded on one of these platforms to make you sound professional – then please fill out the …