Show Me Your Setup
Do you like to spend time tinkering with your audio/video equipment and your computer or workstation? Both Dan and Josh are part of ModPod's Production team. And part of our fun is learning about microphones, headphones and video equipment - sometimes even lighting - and various tools and tricks to manipulate all of these elements in the digital realm. So we need a workstation, a place that we can come and digitally hone our craft. We call this a "studio" or a "setup." We talk about our own setups, guest setups, and provide some general thoughts about microphones, audio interfaces, headphones, cameras, and lighting for video.
info_outline
Revisitin’ Amy’s Home Voiceover Studio
11/04/2024
Revisitin’ Amy’s Home Voiceover Studio
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in voiceover or considering building their own recording space. In , Dan and Josh toured Amy’s professional recording studio, located in her home. Now Amy has a new home in Connecticut, along with a revised and beautiful recording and editing setup. We meet with Amy once again to talk about it, along with her plans to continue improving it with the Centrance Passport VO Voiceover Actor's Audio Interface. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:24 WOVOcon (WorldVoices.org Un-conference) 01:53 Improv comedy teaser 02:48 Moving the Whisper Room 04:55 Auralex, cul-de-sac, acoustic treatment needs 05:33 GIK 2” foam panels 06:15 This is SMYS! 06:49 The room reveal 08:00 Dream studio in detail 10:39 PASport VO – anticipated new gear 13:12 MicPort Pro is still the travel go-to 14:00 What new projects are you voicing? 17:35 ModPod helps companies develop, record, and produce podcasts 19:19 Goshen Roundabouts 20:15 French doors – noise concern 22:12 Settin’ up for joy and relaxation 23:30 Glitching Twisted Wave, lesson learned 25:46 Terror-based endorphins 26:42 One minute countdown 28:58 Use a pencil or pen for script markup 30:20 Pen/pencil Trick 30:54 What advice have you for your aspiring voice talent? 33:00 Warnings 34:35 Demo refresh, is it necessary? 40:10 Wrap-up of the setup In this episode of Show Me Your Setup, hosts Dan Nelson and Josh Blood catch up with Amy, an experienced voiceover artist who last shared her studio setup a year ago. A lot has changed since her initial tour, and in this revisited episode, Dan and Josh dive into her updated gear, recording space, and how she’s optimized her setup for higher-quality audio and improved workflow. Whether you're new to voiceover work or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical insights on how to create an effective home studio on a budget. Amy shares the essential tools she relies on, the latest sound treatment tweaks, and her tips on balancing cost with quality to get the best sound without breaking the bank. Key Takeaways: Studio Setup Evolution: Discover the upgrades Amy made over the past year and what prompted each change. Soundproofing Tips: Learn the tricks Amy used to improve her sound isolation, especially for those with limited space. Must-Have Gear: From mics to software, hear about Amy’s favorite tools and her recommendations for building an affordable yet professional studio. Workflow Enhancements: Amy explains how she streamlined her recording process to save time and produce better recordings faster. Why You Should Listen: If you're working from a home voiceover studio, aspiring to set one up, or looking to take your recording quality up a notch, this episode is full of actionable advice from Amy, who has hands-on experience creating a sound-treated, budget-friendly space that meets professional standards. Mentions: Ikea Desk Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator Mackie 8 channel mixer Monster Power Sterling Volume Control for Headphones Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/33736977
info_outline
DIY Sound Absorbin’ Acoustic Panels
09/30/2024
DIY Sound Absorbin’ Acoustic Panels
Dan shows Josh the sound absorber he made from mostly scrap materials: an old, used 2x4, some thin wood, some screws, many staples, and . Episode DescriptionSound can really pile up in our close quarters living spaces. This is especially true for open concept dwellings. How can noise be mitigated so everyone can live in relative peace and quiet without adding walls and doors? Sound absorbers. But aren’t they costly and perhaps not exactly the look you want for your personal space? Maybe those available on the commercial market are, but if you’re at all handy you can likely make them yourself for a fraction of the cost and exactly to size and to your personal aesthetic. In today’s episode, our 15th, we’ll show you how Dan made one from mostly scrap materials. CHAPTERS 00:00 Sound absorber intro 05:41 Materials list & build photos 17:12 Pros and cons of DIY vs. buying new 20:20 ModPod Studio Prep for podcasters 22:16 Viewer feedback from episode 10 about swimmin' with headphones 26:13 Invitation to be a guest 27:35 Inspiration video Inspiration Video: Links: · Podcast: · RSS feed: · Libsyn: · YouTube: · Facebook: · Twitter: · Website: Bios: · Dan Nelson: · Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/33236802
info_outline
Josh's Audio, Photo, Video Editin' & Recordin' Setup Update
08/27/2024
Josh's Audio, Photo, Video Editin' & Recordin' Setup Update
In Episode 14 of Show Me Your Setup, hosts Josh Blood and Dan Nelson revisit Josh's evolving workstation, diving into his updated setup for audio, photo, and video editing. From ergonomic improvements to the introduction of new gear like the Canon EOS R8 camera, a second monitor, and a sleek new split keyboard, Josh shares the tools that have transformed his workflow and improved ergonomics. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a content creator, or just curious about optimizing your workspace, this episode offers insights into creating a functional and comfortable setup that boosts productivity and creativity. Tune in as Josh and Dan geek out over the details and share tips for enhancing your own setup. Chapters:00:00 Introduction 01:43 Screens 09:54 Mirrorless camera for streaming 18:04 ModPod plug for branded podcast production 19:57 Replacement headphone ear cups 23:16 Video light diffusion 25:22 Pop filter 27:36 USB audio interface 27:58 Microphone processor 31:08 Split, tilting keyboard 32:48 Vertical trackball mouse Watch Show Me Your Setup episode 1 here: Featured Gear: Microphone - @MXLMICS V67i Pop Filter - @PEMOTech Pop Filter Headphones – @AudioTechnicaUSA ATH-M50x Replacement Ear Pads - SOULWIT Cooling Gel Replacement Earpads Speakers – Edifier R1280T Speaker Stands – @gatorcasesofficial Frameworks Clamp-On Studio Monitor Stand* USB Audio Interface – @motuTV M2 Mounted under desk with Velcro tape and cable managed Mic Pre-Amp Processor - @dbxprofessional 286A Camera – @CanonUSA EOS R8 In videoconference meetings, “webcam” setting is enabled. Camera outputs 1080p, 60 frames per second over USB C to USB A high speed data cable. Dummy battery to AC power adapter setup keeps camera powered with no battery drain. Lens – Canon RF24-105mm F4 L IS USM Desk Mount - @SmallRigGlobal Camera Desk Mount Table Stand, Adjustable Light *Stand 15"-35", Tabletop C Clamp for DSLR Camera Allows camera to mount just over top of monitor Lighting – Savage RGB Light Painter Pro LED Wand Double diffused by men’s XXL white T-shirt secured with Velcro ties Desk Mount - JUSMO Camera Desk Mount Stand w Ballhead, 16-34 inch Adjustable Table Aluminum Light Stand* Keyboard – @DygmaLab Defy As seen in Show Me Your Setup episode 9 Dygma Defy Split Keyboard and Nulea Vertical Trackball Review Mouse – Nulea M506 Wired Trackball Mouse As seen in Show Me Your Setup episode 9 Computer – @HPInc Laptop Moved from desktop to Ikea Kallax shelf Main Monitor – @Acer 32” IPS Second Monitor – QQH Z12 15.6” Type-C Portable Monitor Second Monitor Stand - @amazon Basics Multi-Angle Portable Stand for iPad Tablet, E-reader and Phone Links • Podcast: • RSS feed: • Libsyn: • YouTube: • Facebook: • Twitter: • Website: Bios • Dan Nelson: • Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/32764767
info_outline
Editin’ & E-Gamin' at Emerson College
06/19/2024
Editin’ & E-Gamin' at Emerson College
In this episode, Dan and Josh sit down with Maggie Nelson, an Emerson College student and the Content Manager for Emerson Esports. Maggie gives an in-depth look at her dual-purpose setup for both video editing and gaming. She shares insights into the tools and gear that help her stay productive and competitive. From software to hardware, listeners get a peek into what it takes to manage and create content for a college esports team while maintaining academic responsibilities. Maggie also talks about her favorite experiences at Emerson College and offers advice for aspiring esports content creators. Chapters00:00 Maggie Nelson Introduction 02:17 Video Editing Software 03:22 Editing Suites at Emerson College 04:10 Maggie’s Laptop & Dual Screen Editing & Gaming Setup 05:20 Valorant Game 06:02 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Headphones 07:07 Two Kittens – Ender Dragon & Juniper 08:22 Razer Ornata Chroma Keyboard 11:49 Razer Blade 15 Laptop 16:34 Razer Basilisk V3 Pro Mouse 20:37 LG 27GN750-B Monitor 24:49 Razer Kiyo Camera 26:19 Razer Seiren Microphone 28:18 Emerson Esports 32:14 Maggie’s Plugs 33:00 Favorite Emerson College Experiences 36:24 Be a Guest on Show Me Your Setup 38:11 ModPod Plugs 39:41 Maggie’s Impressions of Dan’s Setup 40:38 Liangstar External Laptop Cooling 41:43 Shutterfly Mouse Pad 42:53 Lacie Rugged Portable Hard Drive Join Dan, Josh, and Maggie for an engaging episode filled with tech tips, gaming insights, and personal anecdotes from a student balancing academics and esports at Emerson College Key Highlights Introduction to Maggie Nelson: Learn about Maggie’s role at Emerson College and her involvement with Emerson Esports. Video Editing and Gaming Setup: Maggie describes her dual screen setup, including her Razer Blade 15 laptop, LG 27GN750-B monitor, and Razer Basilisk V3 Pro mouse. Favorite Tools and Gear: Discover the video editing software Maggie uses, her Razer BlackShark V2 Pro headphones, Razer Ornata Chroma keyboard, Razer Kiyo camera, and Razer Seiren microphone. Gaming Passion: Maggie talks about her love for the game Valorant and how it fits into her busy schedule. Personal Touches: Maggie shares about her two kittens, Ender Dragon and Juniper, adding a personal touch to her tech-heavy setup. Emerson Esports Insights: Get a closer look at Maggie’s responsibilities as the Content Manager for Emerson Esports and what it’s like managing content for a college esports team. Maggie’s Recommendations: Hear Maggie’s plugs for her social media channels, her impressions of Dan’s setup, and her advice on external laptop cooling solutions. Mentions Razer Blade 15 Laptop: LG 27GN750-B 27.0 Monitor: Razer Ornata Chroma Keyboard: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Headphones: Razer Kraken Ultimate Headphones: Razer Basilisk V3 Pro Mouse: Harmon Kardon HK395 PC speakers Razer Seiren Microphone: Razer Kiyo Camera: Liangstar Laptop Fan: Lacie Rugged Portable Hard Drive: Emerson Esports Twitch: Emerson Esports Twitter: Emerson Esports Instagram: Maggie Nelson Twitter: Maggie Nelson Web Site: Links Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios Maggie Nelson: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/31812322
info_outline
Podcast Recordin' in Riverside
06/06/2024
Podcast Recordin' in Riverside
In this episode of Show Me Your Setup, hosts Dan Nelson and Josh Blood dive deep into the world of podcast recording with Riverside, their preferred platform for remote collaboration. They discuss the ins and outs of using Riverside, its benefits, features, and some potential challenges. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable insights on making the most out of your recording sessions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to podcast recording in Riverside 01:44 What we like most about Riverside 07:39 Other things to be aware of when using Riverside 12:16 Joining a Riverside recording session - 60 second walkthrough 13:56 Is Riverside the optimal solution for you? 15:07 Joining a Riverside recording session 16:49 Our tips about using Riverside 19:14 Our concluding thoughts about recording in Riverside Key Topics Covered • Introduction to Riverside: Why Dan and Josh choose Riverside for their recordings • Ease of Use: The simplicity of setting up and starting a recording session, even if participants are in different locations • Technical Features: High-quality audio and video recordings (up to 4k video, 48kHz audio), local recordings, and separate audio tracks for each participant • Collaborative Recording: How Riverside allows up to eight collaborators, including hosts, guests, and producers • Recovery Features: What happens if a recording session is interrupted and how Riverside manages data recovery • Accessibility: Riverside’s compatibility with various devices, including computers with Chrome browsers and mobile apps for iOS and Android • Editing Capabilities: In-app editing features and AI-powered transcription • Subscription Tiers: An overview of Riverside’s free and paid subscription tiers, highlighting the differences in features and recording quality • Challenges and Considerations: Potential technical hurdles, such as browser compatibility and corporate IT restrictions, and tips on how to overcome them • Practical Tips: Advice on setting up a recording environment, including equipment recommendations and ensuring a smooth recording experience Notable Quotes • "We just click a few links and all of a sudden we're recording. And we're not even nearby." - Dan Nelson • "Riverside provides crystal clear separate audio tracks so I can always isolate my audio and my video." - Josh Blood • "Riverside has a lot of editing features in the app itself. So if you don't have access to your own personal editing suite on your device you can do the editing in Riverside." - Dan Nelson Listener Engagement • Have you used Riverside for your podcast recordings? Share your experiences with us! • What kind of setups do you want to see featured in future episodes? Let us know! • Contact us at [email protected] or visit our website . Mentions • Riverside: Links • Podcast: • RSS feed: • Libsyn: • YouTube: • Facebook: • Twitter: • Website: Bios • Dan Nelson: • Josh Blood: Stay tuned for more episodes where we explore different setups and gear, bringing you the best tips and tricks for creating quality content!
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/31632117
info_outline
Creatin’ Exposure Through Video with Matte Thomas of Expozed TV
05/13/2024
Creatin’ Exposure Through Video with Matte Thomas of Expozed TV
Join us in Episode 11 of "Show Me Your Setup" where we dive deep into the world of sports and event videography with Matte Thomas from Expozed TV. This episode explores how Matte harnesses the power of video to create exposure for athletes and artists alike. We'll get a behind-the-scenes look at Matte's equipment setup, his approach to capturing dynamic footage, and how he tailors his services to meet the unique needs of his clients. Chapters: 00:46 Matte Thomas introduction and sports videography 04:37 Video shooting setup 13:59 Expozed TV 14:45 Studio setups 19:00 Worst case scenarios 23:15 Katiria Colón joins to talk Expozed TV and business 31:44 Matte’s future goals 34:15 Update on Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones 37:08 MacBook Pro What You’ll Learn: Matte’s Videography Essentials: Discover the specifics of Matte’s camera setup, including his preferred cameras and lenses for different types of shoots, and how he rigs his equipment for optimal performance. Challenges in Sports Videography: Matte shares insights into the challenges of capturing sports events, from selecting the right music to syncing clips for highlight reels. Client Interaction and Customization: Learn about the requests and expectations of clients, including athletes, coaches, and event organizers, and how Matte meets their specific videography needs. Expozed TV’s Mission and Services: Listen for a special cameo appearance from Matte’s wife and the creator of Expozed TV, Katiria Colón. She exposes the broader scope of Expozed TV, a media company that aims to spotlight talent positively, and learn about the variety of content they produce, from artist interviews to educational documentaries. Behind the Scenes with Matte Thomas: Matte discusses the preparation and mindset required for successful shoots, the technical aspects of videography, and his personal experiences in the field. For those interested in exploring videography or learning how to enhance their video content for business or personal projects, this episode provides valuable tips and a peek into the professional setup of a seasoned videographer. Matte also shares how to contact and engage with Expozed TV for media projects and collaborations. Mentions: Matte Thomas Instagram: Matte Thomas Facebook: Expozed TV web site: Expozed TV Instagram: Expozed TV YouTube: Sony Alpha 7 III camera: Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone: RØDECaster Pro II: Mac Book Pro: Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones: Links: Podcast: Email: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Web site: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/31235937
info_outline
Swimmin' with Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Waterproof Sports Headphones
05/02/2024
Swimmin' with Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Waterproof Sports Headphones
Hosts Dan and Josh talk about their experiences with Mojawa Run Plus Waterproof Sports Headphones as they listen to music and podcasts while swimming laps, walking, and hiking. These are open ear, bone conduction headphones and operate in either Bluetooth or MP3 mode. Are they versatile headphones to use in any situation, or are they more specialized and suitable for only certain select activities? 1:01 – Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones3:44 – Can bone conduction headphones benefit someone who’s Hard of Hearing?4:26 – Sound quality while not underwater6:43 – Comparison with Shokz8:17 – Sound quality while swimming15:16 – Comparing physical controls23:52 – Popularity of swimming with headphones25:22 – Our connection with ModPod26:58 – Be a guest on Show Me Your Setup29:34 – Suggestion for Mojawa 30:01 – Calling in Bluetooth mode Join Dan and Josh as they dive into the world of waterproof audio with a review of the Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Waterproof Sports Headphones. This episode explores how these Bluetooth enabled headphones blend technology with practicality for activities like swimming, hiking, and more. Whether you're an avid swimmer or just looking to optimize your audio setup for different environments, this episode offers valuable insights into using technology to enhance your audio experience in challenging conditions. Key Points Discussed: Introduction to Waterproof Listening: The hosts kick off by discussing why they're wearing goggles and the idea of listening to audio content underwater. Features of Mojawa Run Plus: These headphones are notable for their bone conduction technology, Bluetooth connectivity, MP3 capability with 32GB of internal storage, and suitability for swimming. Bluetooth doesn’t work underwater, but the headphones compensate with offline playback options. Personal Experiences: Dan and Josh share their experiences using the headphones in various settings, from swimming pools to outdoor activities, highlighting the convenience of bone conduction technology which allows ambient sound awareness. Sound Quality and Comfort: The episode dives into the sound quality of the Mojawa Run Plus, describing it as mid-range focused with a faint but noticeable metallic ring at higher volumes. Comfort and the physical design of the headphones are also discussed, particularly their durability and how they fare during vigorous activities. Comparative Insights: The hosts compare the Mojawa Run Plus with other brands, particularly Shokz, noting differences in sound quality, build, and user experience. Listener Interaction: Listeners are encouraged to share their own experiences with waterproof headphones and how they integrate audio into their fitness routines. Closing Thoughts: The episode wraps up with a broader discussion on the integration of technology into daily life and how such devices enhance the user experience. Invitation to Engage: Listeners are invited to email their experiences and setups to , or engage with the podcast through social media and YouTube comments. Subscribe and Follow: For more episodes like this, listeners can subscribe to the podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or directly at gomodpod.com. Join us in exploring the frontier of ergonomic design and share your unique setup with the "Show Me Your Setup" community! Additional Information: This episode is produced by ModPod, a company specializing in the conception and production of podcasts, aiming to connect businesses with their audiences effectively. ModPod is a versatile podcast production company that specializes in creating business-oriented podcasts aimed at showcasing expertise and engaging listeners in meaningful ways. The company offers comprehensive services that cover every aspect of podcasting—from strategic planning and content creation to distribution and audience engagement. ModPod emphasizes knowledge-based podcasting, which focuses on delivering content that helps listeners advance their personal and professional development while also being entertaining. ModPod's services are structured around several key areas: Get Clear: This involves developing a tailored podcast strategy and concept to meet specific business goals. Get Ready: This includes all the preparation needed for recording, such as defining series topics, recruiting guests, and setting up a suitable recording environment. Get Going: In this phase, ModPod produces the podcast episodes, providing finished audio, intro/outro music, artwork, show notes, and managing guest coordination and distribution. Get Heard: To build a returning audience, ModPod engages in ongoing marketing and episode production. Get Global: Recognizing the value of a diverse audience, ModPod also specializes in localizing podcasts in over 80 languages to reach a global market. Additionally, ModPod prides itself on a deep understanding of audio production, with over 35 years of experience in the field. This expertise allows them to produce high-quality audio content that effectively communicates the client's message and builds a lasting relationship with the audience. For those interested in starting a podcast or enhancing their current podcasting efforts, ModPod offers a unique blend of strategic, creative, and technical services to ensure podcasts are effective and impactful. You can learn more about their offerings and get started on your podcast journey by visiting their website at . Mentions: Mojawa Run Plus-IP68 Waterproof Sports Headphones - Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones - Tozo Open Buds - Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones - Swim Cap - Ampyx Swim Cap with Ear Protection - Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/31090293
info_outline
Reviewin' the Ergonomic Dygma Defy Split Keyboard & Nulea Vertical Trackball Mouse
02/05/2024
Reviewin' the Ergonomic Dygma Defy Split Keyboard & Nulea Vertical Trackball Mouse
In this engaging episode of "Show Me Your Setup," hosts Dan and Josh explore the forefront of ergonomic workspace design, focusing on the newly released Dygma Defy keyboard. They share insights into the year-long anticipation for this innovative split keyboard, its ergonomic benefits, and the impact of such designs on daily computer use. CHAPTERS00:11 Dygma Defy pre-order saga 00:49 Quest for ergonomic desk setups 05:38 Nulea M506 Wired Trackball Mouse06:25 Foot pedal for left mouse clicks07:27 Dygma Defy tenting 10:30 Finding proper desk height 12:06 Dygma Defy programmable keys 15:37 Show Me Your Setup 18:15 Vertical mouse 20:50 Bonus benefit of a split keyboard Introduction: Welcome to Episode 9 of "Show Me Your Setup," where hosts Dan and Josh dive into the world of ergonomic setups, focusing on innovative solutions that cater to comfort and functionality in the workspace. This episode shines a spotlight on the newly released Dygma Defy keyboard and explores the broader implications of ergonomic designs in our daily tech use. Dygma Defy Keyboard Unveiled: Josh shares his experience as an early adopter of the Dygma Defy, a cutting-edge split keyboard that promises to redefine ergonomic typing. After a year-long anticipation since his pre-order in January 2023, Josh delves into the keyboard's unique features, including its split design, customizable options, and the journey from order to delivery. Ergonomic Insights: Dan and Josh discuss the evolution of ergonomic tools, reflecting on their personal journeys through various devices aimed at reducing discomfort from repetitive typing and mouse usage. The conversation covers the shift from traditional to split keyboards, drawing inspiration from the iconic Microsoft Natural Keyboard, and the quest for the ideal hand position. Wireless vs. Wired: The debate on wireless versus wired setups is explored, with Josh opting for wired configurations for conservation reasons, while Dan appreciates the flexibility of wireless mice despite his preference for wired keyboards. Vertical Mice and Trackballs: Josh introduces the concept of vertical mice, specifically the Nulea vertical trackball mouse, as a game-changer in combating wrist and arm pain. The discussion extends to the potential benefits of foot pedals to reduce repetitive mouse clicks, highlighting the importance of finding personalized ergonomic solutions. Tenting and Customization: The hosts discuss the significance of tenting in split keyboards for maintaining a natural hand position, emphasizing the Dygma Defy's robust tenting kit. Josh shares his customization approach, particularly the programming of thumb clusters and the strategic placement of keys for optimal comfort and efficiency. Listener Engagement: Dan and Josh invite listeners to share their ergonomic setups and innovations, encouraging interaction through email, social media, and their website. The hosts express their eagerness to explore and discuss listener contributions in future episodes. Cat-Friendly Feature: In a whimsical twist, the episode concludes with a nod to cat lovers, highlighting the Dygma Defy's split design as an unexpected boon for feline companionship during work hours. Conclusion: Episode 9 of "Show Me Your Setup" not only introduces the Dygma Defy keyboard but also serves as a testament to the ongoing ergonomic revolution in workspace design. By sharing personal experiences, insights, and listener interactions, Dan and Josh foster a community of like-minded individuals passionate about enhancing comfort and functionality in their setups. Connect with Us:Email: Website: YouTube: Social Media: @GoModPod on Facebook and Twitter Join us in exploring the frontier of ergonomic design and share your unique setup with the "Show Me Your Setup" community! Mentions: Dygma Defy Keyboard - Nulea M506 Wired Trackball Mouse - Evoluent VerticalMouse D Large Wireless - Expert Mouse® Wireless Trackball with Bluetooth - iKKEGOL USB Single Foot Pedal Optical Switch - Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/29808733
info_outline
Dan’s Workhorse – The Daily Drivin’ Rig
01/11/2024
Dan’s Workhorse – The Daily Drivin’ Rig
We’ve seen Josh’s setup, we’ve been on the road with Dan for portable recording, and we’ve seen both Dan’s booth and his Record-In’ Box as well. In this long-anticipated episode, we finally see Dan’s daily workhorse, his daily digital recording and editing platform, and his setup. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 01:14 Side-by-side Monitors 02:20 Dynamic Microphone 05:30 Condenser Microphone 05:55 Scarlett Solo 07:10 Headphones 08:53 USB Audio Interface 10:58 Mic on Boom Arm 11:30 Webcam upgrade 11:50 Camera/Ring Light Boom 16:35 Peripheral Gear 22:14 Tech tower 24:05 Adjustable Desk 24:30 Motion Stool 25:40 Contact SMYS They’re Josh and Dan. They work at ModPod, where they help produce branded podcasts for businesses. They enjoy working with audio and video. They love their recording setups. They love their computing stations. That’s why they put together this podcast called Show Me Your Setup. In this episode, Dan finally shares his everyday working setup. In Show Me Your Setup episode 8, Dan downplays his gear as he describes his setup to Josh. Josh asks many detailed questions about how Dan uses his setup, why he arranges the equipment as he has, and how he uses it daily. Dan replies to each question in turn, adding commentary and riffing with Josh as they do. A key theme to follow throughout this episode is how the setup has been carefully customized over time to yield an ergonomic, adjustable workstation. Some covered improvements include an adjustable desk, DIY desk upgrades, additional hardware, and extra lighting. Josh leads with an overview of Dan’s setup. The first thing to notice is a side-by-side monitor configuration. Dan has a 32-inch primary monitor in front of him, and he’s positioned himself to the left of the center, focusing more on the right two-thirds. This is where the camera boom is suspended. To the right of that is the second monitor which is mounted on a moveable boom arm and is rotated into portrait mode. This monitor is excellent for opening documents and lists. Readily viewable and yet off to the side. Next Josh notes Dan’s microphone. Dan’s speaking into the Electro-Voice MC200 which is mounted to an Audio-Technica AT8410a shock mount, attached to a LUXO LM-1 boom arm, clamped to the desk using a Heil bracket. Dan says this is one of two microphones he tends to use on this workstation. The other, an MXL 990 appears as if by editing magic, and Dan and Josh briefly do bad pro wrestler impressions from the 80’s and 90’s. What Dan’s speaking into is just the beginning, as next Josh will ask Dan how he’s listening to the audio. To this, Dan responds with the tried and true, Audio-Technica ATM50s, and Josh echoes that he’s also sporting a pair. Josh asks how Dan connected his microphone and headphones to his computer, mentioning first that awful memory of days gone by when he used to plug inexpensive mics into the computer’s sound card directly, and how the self-noise of the PC was an unwanted surprise. This leads to discussing the USB audio interface which connects the dots. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo connects the ATM50s with a ¼” stereo phono plug. It also connects the microphones with a Mogami gold XLR cable. For the condenser microphones, the Solo can provide 48V phantom power with the push of a button. It’s connected to Dan’s Dell via high-speed USB. Time to discuss the look of the video, and why Dan’s looks as it does now. The new webcam, Nexigo’s N940p 2K webcam is one reason, good ambient lighting plus an additional light ring is the other. Also, the camera placement is something to note. Dan has his webcam mounted on a custom-fabricated wooden boom that holds it about 9 inches in front of the monitor. This allows it to be much closer to Dan than when it was simply mounted above the monitor. The boom also holds the light ring, so that it’s aligned with the camera, also mounted closer to the subject, and adjusts as the camera is moved. Show Me Your Setup would have the reader pause here and pay close attention. If you want your video footage to improve, improve your lighting. Adding more light will enhance almost every video recording. Back to the action, and now they discuss peripheral gear - all that extra stuff that makes this setup a better custom fit for Dan. Specifically, these items are the ShuttlePro v2 programmable controller, a Logitech MX Master wireless mouse, and the Logitech Carbon G512 keyboard. Dan details a bit about each and how it helps him work fluidly and comfortably over the long haul. There’s a moment when the conversation turns to what’s behind Dan, his mysterious tower of tech, and Dan mentions the Tascam CDA 580 by name. Most of the gear in the tower remains a mystery for now, but other mentions include a generic laptop, a wireless router, and another webcam. Then the focus changes to the desk and chair situation. Dan tells a bit of the history of his desk and then describes his Motion Stool. Discomfort while working is a recipe for disaster and to alleviate this Dan purchased an Uplift desk back in 2016 while he was stuck working from his bedroom. Once he moved back into the office, he situated his desk in the middle of the room. A tall chair was purchased, and work continued. After a time that chair wasn’t as supportive as necessary, so another solution was sought. Dan found the Motion Stool and that proved to be the extra option that rounded out the bunch. Having covered the lot, Josh tells the listeners that he’s really impressed with this setup while Dan spins around on his stool. Oh, and Josh reminds the audience that we’d love to see their setups as well, and possibly even tour their studios. Microphones (Dan uses one or the other depending on the situation) MXL 990 Home Studio Recording Microphone Mic Boom Stand – Proline MS112 Desktop Boom Mic Stand Electro-Voice MC200 Mic Boom Stand #2 – Luxo LM-1 Black Microphone Boom Arms (Discontinued) Headphones Audio Technica ATH-M50x Our favorite headphones! One of the features that makes them really good for what we do - critical listening - is they are closed back so they reject some of the noise outside. When you're recording at a remote location, this can be helpful because you're trying to figure out what the microphone is picking up and what it's not. USB Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett Solo Other Mentions: Camera – NexiGo N940P 2K Autofocus Webcam Programmable Shuttle Control – ShuttlePRO v2 Logitech G512 Carbon (GX BROWN) RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Logitech MX Master Performance Wireless Mouse Motion Stool by UPLIFT Desk UPLIFT Standing Desk V2 Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Web site: Email: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/29448083
info_outline
Lookin' & Soundin' Your Best in Podcasts & Virtual Meetings
09/26/2023
Lookin' & Soundin' Your Best in Podcasts & Virtual Meetings
In today’s episode, Dan and Josh step through their signal chains and break down their key recording equipment. They also share lots of tips on how to achieve good recording levels, why they use microphone pop filters, shock mounts, and arms. Plus, they go over lighting for video, all to demonstrate how to sound and look their best for audio and video recording and virtual meetings. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction1:04 Josh’s equipment signal flow2:08 3:22 Dan’s equipment signal flow4:30 Adjusting microphone level 5:42 Tips to diagnose signal flow issues 6:08 6:57 Differences between microphone types 9:24 11:10 14:20 15:55 17:02 Wrap-up and guest invitation Mentions: Microphones: MXL V67i: Electro-Voice MC200: USB Audio Interfaces Motu M2: Focusrite Scarlett Solo: Microphone Processor dbx 286A: USB Switches KSWLLO USB 3.0 Switcher Selector: SGEYR USB 3.0 Switch USB Switcher Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Email: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/28150424
info_outline
Amy’s Recordin’ Studio Tour
06/13/2023
Amy’s Recordin’ Studio Tour
For episode 6 Dan and Josh tour the professional recording studio of Amy Taylor Fernandez. She has a great set of pipes and nice mics to capture them. After carefully analyzing the audio recordings coming out of Telly award-winning Amy Taylor Fernandez’s studio, Dan practically begged her to be a guest on Show Me Your Setup and share her setup with the world. Amy’s signals are so clean that Dan had to know why. Once Amy shared the secret, he knew that both Josh and their audience would want to learn more about her gear. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:25 Amy answers 01:08 The big reveal! 02:04 More gain 04:00 TLM 103 04:20 U-87 06:23 Not picky about cans 08:18 Low noise floor 09:55 Label everything 11:40 Chandelier 13:30 Optimal light level 15:24 WhisperRoom 17:20 Primary workstation 22:20 Cloudlifter 24:50 Monster power 26:30 MacBook Pro 30:50 Telly awards 31:50 Amy’s range 32:50 Ensenjame su equipo 35:50 Editing breaths 37:41 Contacting Amy 38:37 Amy asks 41:50 Thanks Amy 46:30 Record when people arrive 49:49 What is ModPod? 50:48 Pocket Casts Episode 6 begins with Dan and Josh introducing their first guest, Amy Taylor Fernandez. Her usual workstation and vocal booth are visible in her background. Within the first two minutes Amy drops a bombshell surprise on the fellas when she reveals that she built, and is using to record this episode, a of her own! She even ups the ante in terms of portability over Dan’s version by using a Centrance MicPort Pro as the USB audio interface to connect her Neumann TLM 103 to her MacBook Pro. The MicPort Pro is much smaller than a Focusrite Scarlett Solo, so it makes a great portable solution for providing 48 V phantom power to a large diaphragm condenser microphone. Amy explains that as a voiceover professional, she found herself making pillow forts for mics when travelling. But after seeing our episode 3 she decided that it was such an easy solution, she had to make one for herself. It’s easy to fit in a carry-on, and fun to make for anyone who likes to make crafts. After showing us her TLM 103, she shows us her U-87 which wis her dream microphone. “For me, it sounds great, I don’t need anything else. For now.” Amy has numerous sets of headphones around the studio, each with a short story attached. She’s not picky about headphones in general but does have some guiding principles. Comfort is important, and length of cord is paramount. But in Amy’s setup, you will not find any headphones that creak or clink when worn during speech, as those noises are unwanted. Thus, any such cans were removed long ago. The raison d’être for this episode is covered next when Dan describes why he wanted to tour Amy’s studio. Her noise floor is so low and her audio captures so exceptionally clean, as an audio nerd, Dan needed to know how this could be? Amy shared her secret, and it sent Dan off on a wild ride of research. But not before he asked her to please, please, please share her studio with the world. This episode is rife with hot tips for any audio recording enthusiast. As stories are shared, insights and industry tricks are liberally shared. You will want to listen closely and take notes for future reference! The video version of the episode has many images of the inner workings of Amy’s studio and gear. As items are described, they appear onscreen. Many images of the inside of the 4x4 WhisperRoom are shown. Lighting is discussed - all other gear, acoustic treatment, and surfaces too. Next to the booth, Amy made a standing desk for all her editing, organizing, and sending. She uses this workstation for a lot of her voicework. It has two microphones. A Shure SM-7 and an Electro-Voice RE-20, both in shock mounts on boom stands, ready to swing into action. These microphones are connected to the Mackie ProFX12v3. This and all other peripherals are plugged into the Monster Power line conditioner which keeps them safe from lightning strikes and other power irregularities. The ‘brains’ of the studio are a MacBook Pro. Amy trusts the stability of her system to upload several 45-minute recordings daily. She’s connected to the grid via high-speed internet with solid, business-class service. Amy shows a high-level of organization throughout. Everything is in its place, and a place for everything. Josh asks about the trophies, and Amy explains that she won Telly awards for her work as a voice artist. One of key things to know about Amy is that she records both in Spanish and English. She is a self-described one-stop-shop for commercial voice services. E-learning is also a sweet spot for her career. Like many voice professionals, Amy would love to voice cartoons, but these days automotive recordings pay the bills. Amy helps Dan wrestle with some Spanish to create an alternative show intro. Discussion continues, covering the editing of non-English languages and all that entails. Editing preferences are described, from breathy to breathless. Everyone weighed in with their opinions. Amy is happy to communicate with other audio nerds. Feel free to reach out to her at amytaylorfernandez.com with any questions. After thanking Amy for joining us, Dan and Josh talked a little bit more about the origin of the Record-In' Box. Final note of advice from the studio...always hit record when people arrive. That is how you catch the random ‘gold.’ Feedback: Post: Mentions: Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator Monster Power Sterling Volume Control for Headphones Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/27138135
info_outline
Pro Vocal Recording Booth Testin’
05/15/2023
Pro Vocal Recording Booth Testin’
In episodes 3 & 4, we talked about room tone. In this episode from inside a professional vocal booth and recording the same tongue twistin’ speech as the last episode, Dan demonstrates what he means when he says that the Pro sound is room tone (or lack thereof). This speech, recorded in a professional audio booth, will become our baseline reference audio from which we can compare with other recording scenarios. Upon capturing our baseline audio, we can record the same tongue twisters with the same or different equipment, in various locations with different challenges. We may even take the with us on the road and test out its relative effectiveness in other locations. Dan offers a partial tour of the booth and some equipment, as well as perform test recordings with both the MXL 990 and Advanced Audio CM-87 microphones. How does the space around the microphone affect the sound of our recordings? You will find out when Dan records the tongue twisters. CHAPTERS 00:20 Season recap 00:45 Vocal Booth 01:45 Why we’re here 02:25 Recording Tip #1 03:17 Recording Tip #2 04:02 Repurposed Shock Mount 04:20 Recognize knob mistake 05:17 Recording Tip #3, teaser 06:20 Mind-boggling noise 07:10 Ground loop hum example 08:13 Email us, Social us 09:39 Warm-ups 10:01 Standing Baseline 13:08 Sitting Baseline 14:50 Recording Tip #3, fleshed out in greater detail 17:00 Advanced Audio CM-87 introduced 18:35 CM-87 Baseline 19:39 Recording Tip #4 20:50 Don’t talk into the top of a side-address microphone 23:07 Show Us Your Setup! 24:27 Easter Egg Join us for our 5th episode as we enter Dan’s custom-made, professional vocal booth to record some baseline audio. Once again, we use the Official SMYS Tongue Twister Vocal Warmup Cheat Sheet as the source material. For this session, we continue use of the MXL 990 large-diaphragm condenser microphone in the quirky, re-purposed stage-prop-cum-shock-mount. The variable we test in today’s setup is the booth. We want to record baseline audio in a pro booth to capture that ‘pro-booth sound’ Dan describes as “having very little room tone.” The professional audio booth was built to accommodate comfortable, prolonged voice recording without having to worry about intrusive outside noises interrupting any sessions. The inside of the booth is treated to reduce reflections, to disperse reflections, and to sound flat overall. It does not absorb all frequencies as an anechoic chamber does, as that would be unnatural and downright difficult to work within. From the optimal vocal sweet spot (Try and find it!), it does not echo or reverberate. There is just the right amount of acoustic treatment to help isolate the vocals for ideal voice recordings. This sound is what we describe as “pro-booth sound.” The Record-In' Box was built to emulate this pro-booth recording quality in less-than-ideal locations. The goal of this episode is to capture the tongue twister recordings on the MXL-990 in the booth so that we can compare future recordings to this baseline audio. Sprinkled throughout episode 5, Josh and Dan share recording tips from the Cheat Sheet. There are also instances where our listeners are encouraged to participate in upcoming episodes by showing us their setups. Mistakes are made along the way. Josh and Dan take care to leave these mistakes in the episode as teaching moments. For example, earlier, a ground loop hum was identified in the audio chain which made recording on the intended day impossible. Work was done to rectify the situation with good results. Dan explains what caused the hum and how he fixed it. Josh plays a sample of the awful noise so that others who hear it may better understand what it is, what causes it, and how to avoid it occurring in their setups. After a brief warmup pass through the tongue twisters, the baseline audio is initially recorded from a standing position. However, this booth is not optimized for recording from that position. After moving the gear lower, the baseline audio is re-recorded, this time from a seated position. If you care to compare, you can hear the difference between standing and sitting. Josh notes that Dan sounds better when seated, validating the claim about optimal vocal position in this booth. This leads to another recording tip, or rather to a more detailed explanation of a recording tip regarding headphone use. New Gear Alert! Well, not newly purchased, but new to the show, the Advanced Audio CM-87 makes its debut in baseline recording #5, which serves to directly compare the sound of Dan in the same space on a different microphone than the MXL-990. We toss in another recording tip. All tips are on the downloadable Cheat Sheet, btw. Dan demonstrates how it sounds when you talk directly into the top of a side-address microphone by way of a “how not to speak into a side-address microphone” example. Our illustrious co-hosts once again offer up airtime to the listeners who also love their setups and want to share. No video necessary - a simple photo will do, though they would love to interview you as well. And in what may be the first for our series, Josh drops an Easter egg into the mix. Enjoy (and follow, and share, and like, and do those social things that good people do)! Mentions: Links: Podcast: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Website: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/26841909
info_outline
Is the Sterling Vocal Microphone Shield Ideal for Podcast Recording?
04/13/2023
Is the Sterling Vocal Microphone Shield Ideal for Podcast Recording?
In this episode, Dan demonstrates for Josh and the audience how to use a Sterling VMS Vocal Microphone Shield. Care is taken to slow down and listen to the space, and the sound of the recording. We also begin use of a standard tongue twister script that’s usually used for vocal warmups. This ensures some hard consonants as well as plosive P’s and B’s that should be mitigated during any session. The script is available as a download for anyone that subscribes to our podcast. (yes you can have it simply for asking too) The Sterling VMS was designed with vocal reflections in mind. Those reflections are caused when your voice travels across the room and reflects off surfaces and back into the microphone slightly later than your direct speech. This creates audible reverberations that would not be present in a vocal booth. Recall episode 3 where we introduced the Record-In' Box and demonstrated its uses and construction. It was purposefully built to emulate the recording sound one gets when recording in a professional vocal booth. In fact, we plan to demonstrate just that in our next episode. CHAPTERS 0:19 Episode 3 clarification 1:00 Record-In' Box recap 1:27 Sterling VMS (Vocal Microphone Shield) 4:01 The A-test: Record tongue twisters with VMS 8:30 The B-test: Re-record tongue twisters without VMS 9:09 Interact with us via our our socials 9:55 VMS & Record-In' Box: The comparison 10:30 Where the VMS excels 11:31 Useful for podcast recording? 12:00 Nice features of the VMS 12:50 Josh asks about Dan’s spring mount 13:20 Theater kids 16:00 What we do 16:50 We produce branded podcasts for business 17:10 Episode 5 preview 18:17 What is the mic actually sitting in? We’re Josh and Dan from ModPod, where we produce branded podcasts for businesses. We continue our series of microphone setups designed to reduce room tone/sound such that one can achieve professional vocal booth sound in a less than professional-sounding room. Hmm, this has the essence of a tongue twister waiting to be fleshed out. Enough digression... In this episode, Dan demonstrates the Sterling Voice/Vocal Microphone Shield to Josh. The VMS is initially mentioned, then set up to record a proper A/B test so we can evaluate the recordings and see how well the VMS performs in this space. But first, Dan clarifies a point from episode 3: the notion of “sounding like a professional when you’re recording”. What he meant was trying to make your recordings sound like they were recorded in a professional vocal booth. A professional vocal booth is designed to block outside noise from entering the recording and remove natural reverberation by absorbing the voice reflections inside. This results in an intimate, dry vocal recording. We remind the audience of our handy . The function of the Box is to become a small booth for just the microphone. It performed well and was easy to construct and use. However, many folks do not like DIY solutions and would prefer to order something and have it delivered, ready to use. Enter this episode’s focus, the Sterling VMS. Once setup to use, Dan records a brief list of tongue-twisters. We’ll provide the script to those of you who ask. So, ask and ye shall receive ! We educate the audience with some recording tips as Dan prepares to record the A test. First, before you record, make certain that you are comfortable. Then adjust all the equipment to fit your comfort zone. Your mouth should normally be about a hand-width away from the microphone. This ranges from 4-8 inches but can vary by a lot depending on what type of microphone you use. The VMS was setup about the same distance away, behind the microphone, as Dan positioned his mouth in front of the microphone. Dan voices the tongue twisters then he removes the VMS and revoices the tongue twisters. In this case, the VMS made extraordinarily little audible difference in the recordings. Dan suggests this was partly due to the nature of the room in which he is recording, but also because the VMS was not designed with our purpose in mind. It is not meant to emulate a professional vocal booth. What it does nicely is isolate a singer’s microphone in a room full of performing musicians. So, for spoken podcasts it does not necessarily improve the tone. It is determined that the VMS is not the right choice for vocal isolation in a larger space. Having made these conclusions, the topic changes to Dan’s microphone stand. In particular, the shock mount he fabricated to hold his MXL 990 condenser microphone. Josh is fascinated by the look and wants to know its history. This is when things get a bit more personal. Dan and Josh admitted they have kids. In Dan’s case, theater kids. As any parent of a theater kid knows, at some point you’ll be asked to help the show out. In this case it was Annie the Musical. The props that were needed? Old-timey microphones from the depression era. Dan scoured the Internet, found images, cobbled together some hardware, and fabricated a couple of old-timey looking elements suspended by springs in a giant coil doohickey that looks a lot like those images he used for inspiration. That musical was performed 7 years ago. Dan decided to sacrifice one of the old props by reusing it as a shock mount. After all, it is a metal can suspended by strong metal springs inside of an embroidery hoop that’s affixed to a threaded nut that screws onto any standard mic stand. Why not hack into it, drill out some holes for the microphone and XLR connector and call it a win? And how solid is the shock mount? Let’s call it bobblehead strong. Dan shakes the bejeezus out of the stand while recording and everything was just fine. As an aside, Dan does not recommend using metal springs for shock mount construction as, at times, they impart their own unique sound. However, they work well, and the result looks very steampunk. We work at ModPod. We produce . We facilitate others recording their own podcasts. We edit podcasts. We help plan podcasts. If you are in the market for such services, you can visit us at GoModPod.com and set up a meeting. Teaser: In our next episode we’re going to take the MXL 990 into a professional voice booth to develop our baseline audio. Mentions: Microphone - Links: Website: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/26536773
info_outline
How to Make a Record-in' Box for Professional Voice Recordings
03/28/2023
How to Make a Record-in' Box for Professional Voice Recordings
Recording your voice at home? Want it to sound professional? You can go all out, go to great expense, and treat the room like you’d treat a recording studio, or use this great hack, we call a “Record-in' Box.” Is the room exclusively for recording audio? If so, set up a recording studio. Or do you want to use the room for other things? And might your recordings take place in other rooms, depending on who’s home and what’s going on? If your room serves other purposes and is not just a recording space, or you want the flexibility of a small recording rig you can move to any room and still sound professional, you’ll want to see how easy it is to make a Record-in' Box. 1:00 Record-in' Box 2:36 Sample recording with Record-in' Box 3:44 Sample recording without Record-in' Box 4:22 Commenting on differences in the recordings 6:15 Record-in' Box teardown 8:14 Subscribe & contact 8:48 Feedback 10:38 Episode 4 preview We’re Josh and Dan. We work at ModPod. We produce branded podcasts for businesses. We enjoy working with audio and video. We love our recording setups. We love our computing stations. Which is why we put together this podcast called Show Me Your Setup. In this episode, Dan has a very special setup to share. It's a low cost “Record-in' Box.” The idea is, if you are in a big-ish room with lots of reflective surfaces and maybe some kind of noise-generating things like a computer fan or what not, and you're using a big, sensitive microphone, some of that noise might get picked up by the microphone when you're not talking, and even when you are talking. That's not optimal. So what we’ve done is made a special little booth for the microphone. Josh came up with a great name called Record-in' Box (Record-in-Box). We took a box from IKEA. We stuffed it with some acoustic foam from Auralex. In this case, Dan cut a hole through the side, dropped the XLR cable for the microphone through, hung the mic from it, and he has a portable little booth for his microphone. Listen to the examples of Dan recording with the aid of the Record-in' Box. To contrast this, we take the whole thing apart and record the same speech in the same space. Only this time, without the Record-in' Box. Same speech in the same room at the same desk. This allows us to A-B test the sound of a recording in this space both in the booth and in the room. Josh asks Dan about the differences he noticed as he recorded with and without the Record-in' Box. Dan: “To be candid, I tend to not necessarily trust my live hearing and the memory thereof as much as going back to the recording and playing it over and over and over again. That's kind of why I like recording audio, so that I can get in there and listen to it. You know, the nuances. But from a very high level, what I would say is when the microphone was in the Record-in' Box, it was much more muted sounding. I was more muted sounding. But by muted, I mean there was no space around me. I don't know about the clarity of my voice relative to without the Record-in’ Box. I just know that the the room felt small, there in my head. Now I'm in a bigger room again.” Josh reacted: “When you're outside the Record-in' Box, it's a more live sound. I hear more treble, which I like. But I definitely understand why you want to dampen all that and kind of deaden all that.” Dan continues: “I like to think of it as the difference between being in a big room and being in a [professional] recording booth. Because when I go into my recording booth, it's a fairly large booth, but it doesn't sound like a big room. Enough of the surfaces are treated that my voice doesn't really go anywhere, so I can get away from the mic a little bit and I can project in the booth. As I get louder in the booth, it doesn't reflect off all the surfaces and compound the effect as it would in a space like this. If I'm doing all my professional recordings in the booth and then I'm on the road and somebody needs a pick-up, and all of a sudden I sound like I'm in this big room instead of that nice, warm booth, they're not going to like it. So I need my Record-in' Box so I can record in the box.” The whole thing is portable. Just remove the 5 Auralex panels and fold down the box. The bin is something you can get at Target. You can get it at IKEA. You can get it at the other big box store. It’s less expensive than you might think. At the time of this writing, Ikea’s Kosingen box can be had for under $5. Auralex is a bit more expensive. However, interesting thing to note: Four panels fit very well inside the box without any alterations. Only one piece needs to be cut. So if a box of Auralex comes with 20 squares and you knew three other voice talents who wanted to make a Record-in' Box, or who might want to buy a Record-in' Box from you, you could go in with some friends, split a box of Auralex evenly, and each make your own. If you want to build a Record-in' Box and show us your setup, send us your footage. Send us your audio. We want to see and hear your setup, too. Acoustic Treatment – Auralex Acoustics Storage Box – Ikea Kosingen Microphone – MXL 990 Home Studio Recording Microphone Links Web site: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Bios: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/26368053
info_outline
Dan’s Portable Audio Recording Setup
01/13/2023
Dan’s Portable Audio Recording Setup
Why might someone want a portable audio recording setup? Their location may be too noisy for recording. Perhaps their home is under construction. Or they may live in a tropical location where many homes do not have glass windows. That type of open-air environment introduces all the sounds from the outdoors, including animals. They could be traveling where they don’t have the ability to record from their home studio Also, people might go on location to intentionally record ambient sound. Audio recording in nature, in public spaces, at business locations, and conducting in-person interviews are all scenarios where a portable audio recording setup is a must. 0:08 Introduction 1:21 Episode 1 Feedback2:37 Dan’s Portable Audio Recording Setup3:16 Outdoor Audio 3:56 Audio from Inside the Vehicle4:43 Microphone 4:52 USB Audio Interface 4:57 Headphones 5:52 More Audio from Inside the Vehicle 6:54 Computer 7:50 Microphone Stand 9:40 Share Us Your Setup For this episode, Dan packed up his portable audio recording setup, enlisted his wife to record additional footage, and jumped in their family minivan. They ended up by the Cape Porpoise commercial fishing pier in Kennebunkport, Maine. On this January day, it was blustery, windy and cold. You’ll hear, and if you’re watching the video version, see, three different clips. The first audio/video clip was taken from outside the vehicle. You can see Dan, inside a vehicle, talking into a microphone. Then the camera pans to the coastal view of sea birds flying around water being rippled by the wind. You can hear the wind rustle through the microphone pickups of the cell phone that was doing the recording. Simultaneously, Dan recorded from inside the vehicle, both video from his phone and audio through his portable audio rig. The result is a professional-sounding audio recording. The third clip was recorded from inside the minivan. You can hear Dan’s professional audio as well as his wife’s video commentary. This footage shows how well the vehicle isolated the outside noise from the inside, allowing for a good recording. The video finds a flapping fabric awning, the shadow of a flapping flag, and water crests being manipulated by driving wind. But none of that wind or ocean noise is heard on the recording. Instead, the result is a nice, quiet recording, on location, remotely. Microphone – Dynamic microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern Headphones – Our favorite headphones One of the features that makes them really good for what we do - critical listening - is they are closed back so they reject some of the noise outside. When you're recording at a remote location, this can be helpful because you're trying to figure out what the microphone is picking up and what it's not. USB Audio Interface – Connects microphone, headphones, and computer PC – This tiny Windows PC has enough oomph under the hood to record using Adobe Audition for hours on end. You can record a lot before needing a recharge, even while powering the Scarlett Solo. Voice recording is mono, not stereo, so a small PC can do quite a lot. Dan wouldn’t use it for multitrack audio recording, nor for recording video. But for voiceover, this little unit is just the right fit. It’s super light, super quiet, and it gets the job done every time. Mic Boom Stand – Holding a microphone in your hand gets tedious. It also allows unwanted noises (thumps, bumps, etc.) To avoid concerns, Dan uses a desktop boom mic stand. It has a weighty base that holds his microphone solidly in place. There are several adjustment points which allow for good, close mic placement. Feedback: Our was released before the holidays. Dan’s oldest daughter was home from college, and he was able to show the video version to both daughters. They loved it! The eldest, a freshman at Emerson College in Boston, has a setup at school. But she brought her equipment home for break and she's going to show us her setup before she goes back to school. As a bonus, when she gets back to school, she's going to do a follow up. Josh’s 11 year old son really liked it and he surprised Josh with photos of his gaming setup, implying, “Hey, you can feature my setup next.” If you have any feedback on Dan’s setup, or you'd like to show us your set up, please get in touch with us via our , , , or contact us via our . Our goal is to not only showcase our own setups but to also talk to you about yours! Web site: RSS feed: Libsyn: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/25600626
info_outline
Josh’s Audio Video Recording Editing Setup
12/15/2022
Josh’s Audio Video Recording Editing Setup
00:00 Intro 01:31 Microphone 02:02 Headphones 02:53 USB Audio Interface 04:49 Microphone Boom Arm 05:50 Video Podcasting 07:17 Microphone Placement & Technique 08:26 Camera 08:51 Camera Placement 09:48 Lighting 11:15 Speakers 11:48 Speaker Stands Do you like to spend time tinkering with your audio/video equipment and your computer or workstation? Both Dan and Josh are part of ModPod's Production team. And part of our fun is learning about microphones, headphones, and video equipment - sometimes even lighting - and various tools and tricks to manipulate all these elements in the digital realm. So we need a workstation, a place that we can come and digitally hone our craft. We call this a "studio" or a "setup." In this episode, we look at Josh’s audio/video recording and editing setup. In the simplest of terms, a creative work/production setup is a section of your living space that you put some thought into. You think about sound quality. You might think about video. It doesn't have to be professional, but you've put some thought into it. As Creative Director, Josh’s setup is different from Dan's, our Production Manager. You may have a set up at home, and yours probably differs as well. But we have some things in common. We have aspects to take care of audio, video, and the lighting that the video requires. In this episode, you’ll learn about the specific gear in Josh’s setup. We’ll also provide general thoughts about microphones, audio interfaces, headphones, cameras, and lighting for video. Microphone - MXL V67i Whether you have a dynamic microphone, a large-diaphragm condenser, or something else, you should love the way it sounds. Specifically, you should love how you sound on your mic. Mic placement is key. You need to find your microphone's pickup location and speak close to it, adjusting the gain for optimal sound. Microphones have a sweet spot, and finding it can be fun! If your room isn't treated as a recording booth, then your microphone's ability to reject noise from around the rest of the room is a key feature. Headphones – Audio Technica ATH-M50x When we record, we like to monitor ourselves with headphones. When choosing what type to use in a recording environment, an important question to ask yourself is: Should I buy open-back or closed-back headphones? With closed-back headphones, sounds from outside the room don't disturb your listening as much because you have a nice seal all the way around. Therefore, you hear what's coming through the headphones and not as much from the space (and distractions) around you. Open-back headphones are susceptible to more sounds of the outside world making it to your ears. Even more problematic is during recording, sound may escape (or "bleed") from the headphone housing, reach your microphone, and even onto the recording itself. Speakers – Edifier R1280T For critical listening and editing, our Production department uses headphones. But for less critical listening, we’re happy to listen through speakers. This releases the pressure on our ears that can build up from hours of headphone use. If you're in a small space, like say an average bedroom, you're going to want a smaller monitor like this pair. Speaker Stands – Gator Frameworks Clamp-On Studio Monitor Stand To free up some desk space and position the speakers at ear level, Josh has his speakers mounted on stands that clamp to the back of his desk. USB Audio Interface – Motu M2 USB audio interfaces convert analog signals from your microphone, headphones, and musical instruments into a digital signal that goes straight into the computer via a USB cable. It's a great way to work with a computer while recording and listening. It can eliminate ground loop hum and electrostatic noise. By taking the digital audio conversion out of the computer and putting it into a box that plugs in by USB, you can eliminate extra noise that happens from within the computer. USB audio interfaces do the heavy lifting of converting the analog into digital, and on the way back the digital into analog as it feeds your headphones or your speakers. So rather than plugging your microphone and headphones into your computer, consider using a USB audio interface, instead. Video Recording & Lighting When we first learned about podcasting and became engaged with different podcasts, it was only something one listened to. But now it's also something you can watch, which is kind of fascinating. If you're a content creator, video changes the game in that suddenly, you need to have a camera and lighting. With a studio setup, now you can record everything in a video environment. You can release that full conversation as a full-length YouTube video. You can also take snippets of it and release shorter clips with titles that home in on exactly what that segment is about. An audience for one particular segment might not necessarily sit through a long podcast, but they will watch a short YouTube video. So you can grow an audience by sharing your content on both YouTube and traditional audio podcast distributors. Camera – NexiGo N660P If you use your laptop's built in camera, your viewers will likely see you from an unflattering angle - from below. They'll get a really close view of the underside of your face, including every hair inside your nose. We have yet to see anybody using a laptop webcam that looks decent for very long. Now if you're specifically looking for a horror movie monster/up-the-nose angle, then go with a webcam. But we recommend an external camera for your computer. That way the camera is connected to a cable, allowing you to mount the camera in a more flattering position, like at eye level or slightly above. Lighting – Savage RGB Light Painter Pro LED Wand Lighting plays a couple of important roles in a video recording setup. All cameras respond well to good lighting. You'll see an increase in your camera's recording quality if you add lighting to your setup. Good, soft lighting - light with a diffusion panel - can also make you look better. It can fill in shadows and wrap light around you, hiding wrinkles. The position of your lights is also important, but that topic deserves its own article. If you have any feedback on Josh’s setup, or you'd like to show us your set up, please get in touch with us via our , , , or contact us via our . Our goal is to not only showcase our own setups but to also talk to you about yours! Key Components of an Audio Video Recording Editing Setup: Web site: YouTube: Facebook: Twitter: Dan Nelson: Josh Blood:
/episode/index/show/a5ea91f9-fc3a-4977-8fcb-13d579d19897/id/25340373