How to Record Your Podcast on a Mac Using GarageBand

So you have a podcast topic, you're outlined the plan, and you're ready to record it. There are many software options that you can use to record your podcast. If you have a Mac, a convenient option may be using GarageBand.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A Mac computer
• GarageBand software
• A prepared podcast to record
• A microphone
• Headphones

1. Hook up your microphone (and other audio interfaces) to the computer.

2. Open up the GarageBand program on the Mac.

3. 

   Create a "Real Instrument Track."

4. Set the recording level of your voice. To do this, adjust the "Gain" control on your audio interface. Test the sound of your voice by speaking from different distances from your microphone.

5. If you want background music for your podcast, there are a bunch of GarageBand "Apple Loops" that you can use. These are the most convenient, because they are copyright-free, and designed specifically for the program. Therefore, you vary the length easily, and add them to your podcasts as desired.

6. Or, if you have your own music in mind, add an AIFF, mp3, or AAC file.

7. Begin recording your podcast. Later, you can edit in the background music and sound effects to enhance your podcast.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep your microphone still while recording, so the audio doesn't fluctuate during the podcast.
• Don't worry if you make a mistake, you can always start over and edit it afterwards.
• Sounds from the speakers will be picked up in your recording, so it's best to attach your headphones directly to your Mac or your audio interface.
• If you're using other music as background, make sure to check for copyright rules and license agreements.