Your Guide to the Perfect Two-Mic Video Podcast Setup
Launching a video podcast with a co-host or guest can seem like a significant technical challenge. Juggling multiple microphones, cameras and software can often feel complicated – leading many creators to delay their projects or abandon them altogether. But achieving a professional, broadcast-quality two-person podcast setup is simpler than you might think. With the right approach and streamlined gear, you can create compelling content that both looks and sounds incredible.
This guide will walk you through building a powerful yet minimalist two-mic video podcast setup with the RØDECaster Video S. We'll cover everything from essential gear to a seamless recording workflow, demonstrating how RØDE’s extensive range of creative solutions can simplify the entire process.
Step 1: Set Up Your Microphones and Connect to RØDECaster Video S
The foundation of any great podcast is clean, consistent audio. For a two-person format, you’ll want microphones that deliver clarity, warmth and a true broadcast tone. The RØDECaster Video S gives you complete freedom to choose the right mic for each host thanks to its two professional Neutrik® combo jacks allowing XLR inputs and a flexible USB-C input that supports a wide range of RØDE USB mics.
If you prefer traditional broadcast microphones, the PodMic is a reliable XLR option with a focused, punchy sound. The PodMic USB offers both XLR and USB connectivity, giving you room to grow or adapt your setup. For creators who want a simple digital workflow, the NT-USB+ connects directly via USB-C and offers advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) processing.
Once you’ve chosen your mics, plug them straight into the RØDECaster Video S using its XLR or USB-C input. There’s no need for extra adapters or external interfaces. The console provides integrated high-gain, ultra-low-noise Revolution Preamps preamps and studio-quality APHEX® audio effects that ensure both voices sound polished and balanced from the moment you hit record.
Step 2: Set Up and Connect Your Cameras
For a video podcast, your visuals are just as important as your audio. A two-person podcast benefits from at least two camera angles:
- A wide shot covering both hosts
- A close-up for each speaker
Place your cameras at eye level for the most natural look and ensure both hosts have even lighting. Once your cameras have been positioned desirably, pairing your video to your audio is seamless with the RØDECaster Video S. Simply connect your video cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, or webcams) to the RØDECaster Video S via one of three HDMI inputs or USB 4 port. The integrated video switcher supports multi-cam production, letting you effortlessly switch angles or produce split-screen shots directly on the touch screen.
While high-quality mirrorless and DSLR cameras are an excellent foundation, the RØDECaster Video S also supports NDI®, which unlocks flexible network-based workflows. NDI allows you to send broadcast-grade video over a standard network connection, so you can position cameras freely without long runs of cable or complicated routing.
One powerful example is using the RØDE Capture app to turn your iPhone into a wireless multi-angle camera. You can transmit both the front and rear cameras at once, sending clean, low-latency video straight to the RØDECaster Video S over your network. It’s an incredibly versatile way to expand your angles and keep your setup tidy.
Step 3: Customise Your Recording and Monitoring Experience
With the RØDECaster Video S, you have total control without any complexity. Use the responsive rotary encoder to set audio levels, activate intelligent features like noise gates and compressors and trigger sound effects or stings using the programmable pads.
The RØDECaster Video S supports multi-track recording for both video and audio, ensuring you have maximum flexibility in post-production. You can output your mixed program feed or export isolated tracks for advanced editing, putting you firmly in the producer’s seat.
And by using the RØDECaster App, you can take full wireless control of your production – switch inputs, adjust audio, build scenes, and monitor everything in real time from your computer.
Step 4: Go Live or Record Seamlessly
Now that you’re set up, you’re ready to share your content! RØDECaster Video S is engineered for both live streaming and recording. Send your finished mix straight to your platform of choice (YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Live, Zoom and more) with a single tap. The integrated outputs and dedicated mix-minus make remote guests a breeze, ensuring that every podcast mic and camera workflow feels polished and stress-free.
Alternatively, you can record directly to an external USB storage device for long-form or multi-episode sessions, giving you plenty of space without relying on a computer. The RØDECaster Video S captures high-quality audio and multi-camera video internally, ensuring your files stay perfectly in sync and free from dropouts. You can also take advantage of multitrack audio recording and isolated camera feeds, which gives you full control in post. With automatic file organization and real-time monitoring built in, every session is captured cleanly and ready for a smooth edit the moment you wrap.
Essential Video Podcast Gear Checklist
Building your studio is easy with these essentials, all designed to work seamlessly with the RØDECaster Video:
- RØDECaster Video S: The central hub for your setup, managing all audio and video I/O, switching, processing, and recording.
- Microphones (x2): RØDE PodMic, PodMic USB or NT USB+ microphones pair superbly with the professional preamps of the RØDECaster Video S.
- Headphones (x2): NTH-100 studio headphones deliver critical monitoring accuracy and long-session comfort, essential when tracking and editing audio on the RØDECaster Video S. For a more compact and lightweight fit, consider the NTH-50 on-ear headphones.
- Stands/Boom Arms (x2): The PSA1+ professional studio arm or DS2 desktop stand provide stable, easily adjustable mic positioning for each speaker.
- Cameras (x2 or more): Use mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, or high-quality webcams with HDMI output for direct integration into the RØDECaster Video S.
- Lighting: LED panels or a basic three-point lighting kit will ensure a clear, professional look on camera.
- Storage: Record directly to an external USB storage device for extended sessions, or stream directly to all major platforms.
RØDECaster Video S: The Ultimate Solution for Video Podcast Creators
As you can see, creating a high-quality two-person podcast doesn’t need to be complicated or intimidating. With the RØDECaster Video S, you have an all-in-one production partner built for creators that streamlines every step of your two-mic video podcast setup.
Packed with industry-leading features, smart automation and uncompromising audio and video integration, RØDECaster Video S is the choice for creators who want world-class results, minus the hassle. .
Ready to record? Discover how the RØDECaster Video S is reimagining the standard for two-person podcast setups here.