If anyone's considering a 'no-edit' podcast, get your recording space right first – it's not just about the mic. You're not going to mask a leaky room with EQ and compression. I've seen too many producers rely on software to fix their acoustics. In theory, that's a huge mistake.

First, eliminate any reflective surfaces behind and to the sides of the mic. This includes bookshelves, mirrors, and any other flat surfaces that can bounce sound back into the mic. Your recording room should be a minimum of 5' x 5' (1.5 meters x 1.5 meters) with absorbent panels to reduce reverberation. If you can't dedicate that much space, rent it – don't try to make it work with cheap fixes.

Your mic stand should sit at ear level, on a sturdy, non-resonant surface. Avoid tables and desks made from wood or glass, as they can introduce unwanted resonance. Your mic is the only thing that should be making a sound – not the equipment around it. And don't even get me started on pop filters – if you're recording vocals, get a proper one that doesn't vibrate with every syllable.