What is USB vs. XLR?
USB mics plug directly into a computer and are easy to use. XLR mics require an audio interface but offer higher quality and expandability.
Why USB vs. XLR Matters for Podcasters
The great debate for beginners. **USB Microphones** (like the Blue Yeti) contain a built-in interface. They are 'Plug and Play,' making them perfect for solo podcasters on a budget. However, you generally cannot plug two USB mics into one computer easily. **XLR Microphones** are the professional standard. They send an analog signal that requires an external Audio Interface to work. XLR setups are modular (you can upgrade the mic or the interface separately) and allow for multi-person recording. The recommendation: Start with USB if you are solo; start with XLR if you plan to have guests in the same room.
Ready to get started?
Decide between USB and XLR based on your goals with our Podcast Gear Picker.
Try Podcast Gear Picker →Related Terms
ID3 Tags
ID3 tags are metadata embedded directly into MP3 audio files that store information like the episode title, artist name, album name, and cover art. They help podcast players display the correct information about your episodes.
Metadata
Metadata is descriptive information about your podcast episode that helps platforms, players, and search engines understand what your content is about. It includes titles, descriptions, tags, and embedded file information.
Background Noise / Noise Floor
Background noise (also called noise floor) is the unwanted ambient sound present in your recording, such as air conditioning hum, computer fan noise, or room echo. It can distract listeners and make your podcast sound unprofessional.
Transcription
Transcription is the process of converting spoken audio into written text. For podcasters, transcriptions make content accessible, improve SEO, and enable repurposing into blog posts or social media content.