Podcast cheat sheet
The essentials of the course on a single page: recording levels, format, voice EQ, compression, loudness and export. Download it as an image to keep on your phone, or print it.
Recording
Voice peaks (dBFS)
−24−18−12−60
Too quietClipping
Mouth-to-mic distance (inches)
124612
Boomy and plosivesRoom and echo
Working format
| What | Value |
|---|---|
| File | Uncompressed WAV |
| Sample rate | 48 kHz (or 44.1) |
| Bit depth | 24 bits |
| Dynamic mic | 2–4 in (5–10 cm) |
| Condenser | 6–8 in (15–20 cm), with pop filter |
Voice EQ
| Zone | What to do |
|---|---|
| 80–100 Hz | High-pass filter |
| 200–400 Hz | Cut if it sounds muddy |
| 300–600 Hz | Cut if it sounds boxy |
| 2–5 kHz | Boost slightly: presence |
| 5–8 kHz | De-esser if it hisses |
Starting compression
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Ratio | 3:1 to 4:1 |
| Attack | 5–20 ms |
| Release | 50–200 ms |
| Gain reduction | 3–6 dB |
Loudness and export
| What | Value |
|---|---|
| Stereo podcast | −16 LUFS |
| Mono podcast | −19 LUFS |
| Maximum true peak | −1 dBTP |
| Stereo MP3 | 128 kbps |
| Mono MP3 (voice) | 64–96 kbps |
| Cover art | 3000 × 3000 px |
Three pocket rules
- Keep the microphone close to your mouth and always at the same distance.
- Peaks between −12 and −6 dBFS: clipping can't be fixed.
- Before removing noise in editing, remove it from the room.