It has long been considered that if you want to get your name known for podcasting, then there will be a cost when you get started. A memorable name is a must, as is an ongoing supply of interesting content. Added to this now is the way the podcast is recorded. It is the brand audio that will get you noticed and loved. If you can do this, you will do well.
Understanding 3D Audio
3D audio gives a much-improved experience when listening. You will feel as if you are in the middle of the recording. It does not appear that you are distanced from the show but that you are part of it. You hear it as you would listen to a conversation in real life. The way the microphones are shaped – normally like ears or a person’s head – the sound is easy to explain. Imagine you can hear a car speeding down the street. You will hear it more from one side than the other. Then it will be louder in the other ear and dropping away from the one that heard it first.
iHeart
To show what this new system is like, iHeart is producing several shows to explain. It is going to be called iHeart 3D Audio. Aaron Mahnke, a producer and podcast creator, will be involved, and Blumhouse Television is making programs for it. So far, there are 12 producers employed in three newly built and specially equipped locations. The producers understand how binaural audio is to be captured. It is expected that there will be around 12 series produced by the end of 2021. As iHeart also runs 100’s of radio stations in the United States, they intend to host live radio shows.
Why do this?
At iHeart, they see it as a new way to put forward their ideas and tell a story. They also think it is going to be beneficial to sponsors and help them get their product known. Paragon Collective – an Indie network – has already been doing this. “Darkest Night” and “The Oyster” are examples of some shows produced this way. Paragon founder Alex Aldea likes the idea that 3D audio involves the listener and often uses them when their characters are whispering.
Advantages of Binaural
The main advantage is that it draws listeners in. That way, they are more likely to listen to an entire podcast. No special equipment is needed to hear this way. A third reason is that it will lead you to listen to more podcasts if you enjoy the experience. CODE is also looking to make podcasts in surround sound. However, they are ahead of the game by using Dolby Atmos; they use a standard that is not yet supported. Apple’s AirPods Pro and Apple TV 4K are getting themselves ready for the day when app makers support it.
It is accepted that the process will not become more important than the story being told. They are moving towards turning stories into films. 3D Audio is the next step towards the big screen for podcasts.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
