The Democratization of Podcasting: Anyone Can Do It
Podcasting stands out as one of the most accessible mediums today—nearly as easy to create as it is to consume. With a wide range of hardware and software options available, setups vary from professional NPR studios to makeshift USB Skype rigs (a pandemic-era staple).
This week, we dive into the workflow of Alex Goldman, co-founder of the acclaimed Reply All and now host of Hyperfixed, a Radiotopia podcast offering a “help desk for life’s most intractable problems.” Goldman shares insights into his unique basement studio setup, proving that great content doesn’t require a fancy studio.
Alex Goldman’s Home Studio: Cozy, Quirky, and Effective
The Space: A Basement “Torture Closet”
Since the pandemic, remote podcasting has become the norm, and Goldman’s setup reflects this shift. His recording space? A snug 8×8-foot room in his apartment’s basement, which he affectionately calls his “torture closet.” Despite its modest size, the room is surprisingly warm—thanks to running equipment—and personalized with quirky touches like a Black Sabbath Vol. 4 wall flag and a mysterious rubber glove left by a previous tenant.
Acoustic Treatment: Keep It Cluttered
Goldman debunks the myth that soundproofing requires expensive treatments. His philosophy? Clutter is your friend.
- A wool blanket hangs behind the Black Sabbath flag to absorb sound.
- Sound baffles flank his desk to minimize echo.
- Random objects scattered around further dampen reflections.
“Engineers act like prepping a room to record is difficult, but really it’s about reducing open space and hard surfaces,” he explains.
The Gear: Industry Standards and Personal Favorites
Microphone & Audio Interface
- Mic: Shure SM7B, a public radio staple for over 20 years. “Once you know its profile, you’ll see it everywhere—even James Hetfield uses one,” Goldman notes.
- Audio Interfaces:
- Focusrite 18i8 (for desktop recording).
- Focusrite 2i2 (portable and wall-outlet-free).
Software: Pro Tools & Beyond
Goldman cut his teeth on Pro Tools, the industry-standard DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), despite its notorious bugs and high cost. “Thankfully, they now offer a \(10/month subscription instead of a \)599 outright purchase,” he says.
Music Production: Synths, Samplers, and Slow Fawns
Goldman crafts Hyperfixed’s music himself or collaborates with The Mysterious Breakmaster Cylinder. His toolkit includes:
- Sequential Circuits Prophet 6 Synthesizer: A modern take on the iconic Prophet 5, beloved for its rich, nostalgic tones.
- Moog Matriarch: Ideal for deep basslines and soaring leads.
- Drum Machines: Erica Synths LXR-02 and SOMA Pulsar-23 for experimental beats.
He occasionally repurposes tracks from his Slow Fawns project, proving that creative recycling pays off.
Why Your Setup Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect
Goldman’s approach is a testament to the DIY spirit of podcasting. Whether it’s a basement nook or a repurposed closet, what matters most is content, comfort, and a touch of personality.
“When you listen to Hyperfixed, full of hope and adventure, just know it’s coming from this little room—glove and all,” he jokes.
More Podcasting Workflows to Explore
Interested in other creators’ setups? Check out TechCrunch’s How I Podcast series, featuring:
- Science Vs’ Rose Rimler
- Welcome to Night Vale’s Jeffrey Cranor
- Criminal’s Lauren Spohrer
- And many more!
What’s your podcasting setup like? Share your tips in the comments!
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