How to Record High-Quality Audio for
YouTube Videos
When creating YouTube content, audio quality is often more critical than video
quality. As Matt Pat from Game Theory says:
"Number one is always going to be audio. If you have bad audio, people won’t watch. You could have bad visuals—your camera could be out of focus—but as long as I can understand what you’re saying and it’s pleasant to listen to, you’re great."
Similarly, Jordan Matter emphasizes:
"The one thing I would suggest you invest in is audio. Bad audio kills videos." So, before worrying about cameras or lighting, let’s focus on recording professional-grade audio.
1. Optimizing Your Recording Environment
The biggest factor affecting audio quality isn’t your microphone—it’s your recording
environment.
Indoor Recording Tips:
1. Reduce background noise – Close windows, silence electronics, and avoid noisy areas.
2. Minimize echo – Hard surfaces (bare walls, tile floors) cause reverb. To fix this:
* Use soft materials – Add carpets, curtains, or furniture to absorb sound.
* DIY soundproofing – Hang blankets on walls or use foam panels (e.g., insulation foam from hardware stores).
* Record in a closet – Clothes naturally dampen echo (ideal for voiceovers).
Outdoor Recording Tips:
1. Avoid wind noise – Use a windscreen or position yourself so your body blocks wind.
2. Stay close to the mic – Reduces ambient noise interference
2. Choosing the Right Microphone
There are three main types of microphones for YouTubers:
1. Lavalier (Lapel) Microphones
* Best for: Vlogging, interviews, on-the-go recording.
* How to use: Clip onto clothing or hide under a shirt.
Recommended models:
* Budget: Boya BY-M1 (~$20) – Good for beginners.
* Mid-range: Tascam DR-10L (~$200) – Built-in recorder, great for fieldwork.
* Premium: Hollyland Lark M2 (~$300) – Wireless, excellent for run-and-gun filming.
2. Shotgun Microphones
* Best for: Camera-mounted directional audio (e.g., filmmaking).
* Not ideal for most beginners – Requires precise positioning.
* Example: Rode VideoMic Go (~$100).
3. Condenser Microphones
* Best for: Studio recordings (voiceovers, podcasts, desk setups).
Recommended models:
* Budget-friendly: Blue Yeti (~$150) – USB plug-and-play, great for starters.
*Professional-grade: Shure SM7B (~$400) – Industry standard for podcasts
(requires an audio interface).
Bonus: Pop Filters
* Reduce plosive sounds (like "P" and "B" bursts).
* Affordable (~$10-15) and easy to attach.
Final Recommendations:
* For beginners: Start with a lav mic (Boya BY-M1) if mobile, or a Blue Yeti for desk recordings.
* For higher quality: Upgrade to a Tascam DR-10L (lav) or Shure SM7B (condenser).
* Always prioritize environment – A 3,000 mic in a bad room will sound worse than a 20 mic in a treated space.
By optimizing your setup and choosing the right microphone, you’ll significantly improve your audio—and keep viewers engaged.
Next, we’ll cover how to record high-quality video for YouTube.
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