Comparing Recording Techniques
| Why use it? | Equipment Required | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microstudio | For studio quality, noise isolated recording For recording 1-4 people | 1 computer + peripherals 1 Rodecaster Pro Adobe Audition (for multitrack recording) (or other) + per speaker:
| The ABP Microstudio needs to be booked Make sure you book the Microstudio for about half an hour longer than your interview/length of your recording as it will take time to setup the equipment and systems, as well as to wrap up and collect your files afterwards. Finish recording before the end of your studio booking. Remember that there might be bookings after your time, and you don't want people knocking on the door of the studio while you are still recording. |
| Standalone USB Mic | For quick recording that involves minimal setup and equipment For recordings where the audio quality does not need to be studio quality For recording up to 2 people | 1 computer or laptop (some smartphones can also be used) 1 USB microphone 1 USB cable 1 USB adapter (to connect to smartphone) 1 pair of headphones Recording software (eg Audacity) | Most USB microphones are condenser mics, which mean they will pick up background noise If the recording is to take place in a space that is not soundproof (eg an office, at home) make sure to minimise any background noise (eg air conditioning, fans, TV) and try to record at a time you know there will be minimal disturbance. |
| Zoom H5 /H6 Kit | For recording where mobility and portability are important For recordings that require good audio quality but where a sound proof recording studio is not available/appropriate For recording up to 2 people (H5) and 4 people (H6, depending on availability of microphones) | 1x Zoom H5/H6 recorder + power adapter Spare batteries SD cards + per speaker:
1x 3.5mm audio splitter (recorders only have one headphone output) | While this kit is a very good portable one, it can also be used for indoor recording. The combination of the Shure SM58 + Zoom H5 and Rode M1 + Zoom H6 usually produce good quality, clean recordings if used in a quiet environment. Make sure you carry spare batteries as the recorders will drain power quite fast, especially when driving multiple microphones and headphones. |
| Rodecaster Pro Kit (standalone) | For recordings that require good audio quality, and elaborate setups but where recording in a studio is not possible/appropriate For recording up to 4 people (depending on availability of microphones) | 1x Rodecaster Pro + power adapter Micro SD cards + per speaker:
| This kit takes time and requires space to set up. While it is a portable kit, make sure you have access to a space where you will be undisturbed for the duration of the recording, and allow for some time to set up and pack up afterwards. The Rodecaster Pro has some functionalities that can be pre-programmed (eg pre-recorded sound effects) so you may want to allow additional time for that as well. |