Dan Carlin's Podcast Equipment List

Hardcore History has captivated audiences since its launch in 2005. Known for its deep dives into historical events, the podcast features Carlin's distinctive storytelling style, blending thorough research with dramatic narratives. When it comes to production, Dan Carlin keeps it pretty minimal, let’s have a look at what he’s working with.

Dan Carlin’s Studio Setup

Mic:

Model: SM7B

Price: Averages at about $399.

Pros: 

• Wide Dynamic Range: The SM7B offers a wide dynamic range, providing clarity and versatility in vocal and instrumental recordings.

• Durability: This mic is known for its rugged construction and legendary reliability, making it a long-lasting investment.

• Presence Boost: The SM7B features a presence boost that compensates for lack of brightness, enhancing vocal quality.

• Internal Shock Mount: it’s equipped with an internal shock mount that absorbs vibrations, eliminating the need for bulky external mounts.

• Off-Axis Rejection: Provides good rejection of off-axis sound, ensuring focused audio capture. (It doesn’t pick up background or “side” noise as much, just what’s in front.)

• Built-in Pop Filter: Includes a highly effective pop filter, reducing plosive sounds and enhancing vocal clarity.

Cons: 

• Needs to be Close: This mic is meant to be used just a few inches from your face, if you are moving a lot it won’t pick up the audio. This can be a con if you are prone to movement. 

• Transient Response: While decent for a dynamic microphone, it may not capture as much detail in the audio as condenser microphones, though for voice-only and podcasting, this should be fine.

• Low Output Level: True only in slightly older versions of this mic, there may be the need for a pre-amp. The newest version comes with one built in.

We’ve seen many top podcasters using the SM7B and with good reason. It’s a great microphone for podcasting, the built-in pop-filter and wide dynamic range allow for a super clear recording. It’s also a favorite of our teams. It can be pricey if you are just starting, but we’d say it's well worth the investment if you plan to be podcasting professionally.

Audio Interface

Model: RME Baby Face interface

Price: $999.00

Pros

• Exceptional Sound Quality: Clean audio output with high dynamic range and low noise floor.

• Low Latency Performance: Real-time monitoring with minimal delay, ideal for recording instruments and vocals.

• Versatile Connectivity: Multiple input/output options for diverse recording setups, including DC-coupled outputs for controlling analog gear.

• Reliable Drivers: RME is known for its stable drivers and long-term support for their products.

Cons

• Price Point: Considered expensive compared to other interfaces in the market, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

• Learning Curve: The advanced features and TotalMix FX software may be overwhelming for beginners.

• Limited MIDI Options: Requires a breakout cable for MIDI connections, which some users may find inconvenient

For his podcast recording, Dan Carlin uses the RME Babyface Pro FS. This is a highly regarded audio interface known for its exceptional audio quality, low latency, and robust build. Its a good option for professional recording, but the price point may be a reason to look for an alternative when you are just starting out.

Editing Software

Software: Adobe Audition

Price: Like all Creative Cloud apps, Adobe Audition is a subscription-based service and costs $22.99 per month.

Pros:

• Professional Quality: Adobe Audition offers advanced features such as multitrack recording, spectral analysis, and precise audio restoration tools that make it suitable for high-quality audio production.

• Customizable Interface: The software provides a flexible and customizable interface that can be tailored to suit individual workflows, making it adaptable for different user needs.

• Extensive Audio Effects Library: Audition includes a wide range of built-in audio effects and supports third-party VST plugins, allowing users to enhance their audio creatively.

• Non-Destructive Editing: The ability to perform non-destructive edits means users can experiment without permanently altering their original audio files.

Cons

• High Cost: Adobe Audition requires a subscription, starting at around $22.99 per month. This can be a significant investment, especially for casual users or those on a tight budget.

• Steep Learning Curve: The interface can be intimidating for beginners, making it challenging to navigate without prior experience in audio editing software.

• System Requirements: Audition requires a relatively powerful computer to run efficiently, which may necessitate additional investment in hardware for optimal performance.

• Not Ideal for Live Streaming: While it excels in post-production, Audition is not specifically designed for live recording or streaming applications, which may restrict its usability in certain scenarios

Dan Carlin uses Adobe Audition to edit Hardcore History. This program has a wide range of audio editing tools, including noise reduction, equalization, compression, and more, making it a great tool for podcast editing.  The only thing is it may be tough for beginners, it has a bit of a learning curve to understand all the interface and features. However, it is a standard in the industry, so it’s well worth learning this program well!  

What do you need to create a podcast like Hardcore Histories?

Every podcast needs the right equipment, but that may look different for every show and every podcaster. These blogs can give you an idea of what your favorite podcasters are using, but don’t feel the need to break the bank before you know the perfect tools for you. Lower Street can help give you equipment recommendations and guide you in launching a top show. Get in touch to learn more.