Alex Goldman, co-founder of the acclaimed podcast "Reply All" and creator of Radiotopia's "Hyperfixed," recently offered a glimpse into his personal podcasting sanctuary. Goldman, known for tackling life's complex problems, shared the intimate details of his home studio setup, emphasizing the blend of professional quality and personal comfort.
The "Torture Closet" Turned Cozy Studio
Goldman has transformed a small 8x8 basement room into his podcasting hub. Despite its humble appearance, likened to a "cabin in 'Evil Dead'," the space is optimized for sound.
Goldman explained how various items, including a large Black Sabbath wall flag backed by a wool blanket, help absorb sound and minimize echo. Sound baffles are strategically placed to further enhance audio quality.
Essential Gear and Software
Goldman's audio toolkit includes the Shure SM7B microphone, a long-standing standard in public radio. For audio interfaces, he utilizes Focusrite's 2i2 and 18i8 models, appreciating the latter's desktop recording capabilities and the former's portability.
His software of choice for audio editing is Pro Tools, a powerful industry standard that has recently become more accessible with a monthly licensing option. Previously, purchasing Pro Tools required a significant upfront investment.
Musical Elements and Personal Touches
For the music featured in Hyperfixed, Goldman employs a range of synthesizers. He frequently uses the Sequential Circuits Prophet 6 Synthesizer for its ability to produce rich synth bass and thick leads, noting its lineage from iconic 80s synths. The Moog Matriarch is also a favorite for its versatility, though described as more temperamental.
A quirky detail of his studio is a rubber glove left by a previous tenant, which has become an accepted, almost iconic, part of the room's decor.
Podcasting's accessibility allows for diverse setups, from professional studios to home-based operations. Acoustic treatment in a recording space is crucial, with clutter and soft materials effectively reducing echo.
Industry-standard equipment like the Shure SM7B microphone and Pro Tools software are favored for their quality and reliability, while synthesizers and drum machines offer creative avenues for producing unique podcast music and soundscapes.
Personal touches, even unexpected ones like a "torture closet" aesthetic, can contribute to a comfortable and inspiring creative environment.
