Choosing headphones

Why do I need headphones when recording or podcasting?

When you're recording in a studio or recording a podcast, it's important to use headphones to monitor the audio so you can listen for static, loudness and other sound issues.

BEQ Headphones

Can I use any pair of headphones?

When recording or monitoring your podcast you should use closed-back headphones so that the microphone does not pick up any audio bleeding (sound coming from the headphones).

Specifically designed monitor headphones are used to monitor and allow you to analyze sound. Unlike ordinary headphones, monitor headphones do not enhance or boost their bass and “loudness.” Recording professionals use them when recording music in order to hear exactly what is being recorded.

Will headphones make me a better podcast presenter?

If you’ve never recorded your voice or worked in a studio, radio station or previously podcasted, the only way you’ve heard yourself is through your cheekbones. Your audience is always in front of you when you speak, so you can not hear yourself the way other people do. Unless you wear headphones.

Headphones allow you to hear exactly what you sound like to others.

This is vital when you’re presenting a podcast because it gives you control when it comes to adjusting your volume, your voice, your tone and your presentation style on the go.

Why are monitor headphones so bulky?

Monitor headphones are a tool. It is important that they are comfortable, and durable enough to handle being used for long periods of time, fitted and removed many times during a recording session, and often thrown around with other recording equipment such as cables.

Monitor headphones should have good quality, thick, ear pads and a headband that provides a good firm fit to prevent the audio bleeding mentioned earler. The cable and connection points should be reliable and sturdy. These important functional requirements take precedence over aesthetic considerations.