Is Zoom Really That Bad For Recording Your Podcasts?
Takeaways
- Zoom is not designed for podcasting and prioritizes reliability over quality.
- Local recordings made with platforms like Riverside and Streamyard offer higher audio quality than Zoom.
- Using Zoom can result in lost audio quality, noise, and reduced frequency range, affecting the overall sound of your podcast.
- It’s essential to start with high-quality, uncompressed audio files to ensure the best possible sound for your podcast.
Overview
Have you ever wondered if using Zoom for recording podcasts is a good idea? In this video, we’ll explore why Zoom might not be the best choice for podcasters. With a thorough comparison of local recordings made using QuickTime, Hindenburg, and Riverside, we’ll dive into the differences in audio quality and what it means for your podcast. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this video is a must-watch to understand the importance of high-quality audio.
The Problem with Zoom
Zoom is not built for podcasters; it’s designed for business meetings and conference calls, prioritizing reliability over quality. This means that Zoom’s local recording feature records all audio and video to the host’s computer, increasing the risk of glitches and data loss. In contrast, platforms like Riverside and Streamyard record each person’s audio and video locally, then upload the files to their servers for download.
The Null Test
To demonstrate the difference in audio quality, we conducted a null test, which reveals the differences between two files. By flipping the phase of one file and playing it back with the original, we can hear the differences. In this test, we compared the audio quality of Zoom, Riverside, and local recordings. The results showed that Zoom’s audio quality is significantly lower than the others, with a reduced frequency range and added noise reduction.
The Consequences of Using Zoom
When recording with Zoom, you’re losing a lot of audio quality, which can be devastating for podcasters. The audio artifacts, noise, and reduced frequency range can make your podcast sound unprofessional. Moreover, when you edit and mix your podcast, these issues can become even more pronounced, leading to a lower-quality final product.
