The Blind Podmaker

Episode 41 – Jonathan Mosen's review and demonstration of the Zoom Podtrak P4Next

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:24:06 -0000

We thank the National Federation of the Blind for their permission to include this review, produced for the Federation's Access On podcast. Join Jonathan Mosen for an in-depth demonstration of the Zoom PodTrak P4Next portable multitrack podcast recorder, featuring complete navigation with the Voice Guide feature enabled. This demonstration explores every feature and function of this next-generation recorder from the perspective of blind users, showcasing how the built-in accessibility makes professional podcast production truly inclusive.

The P4Next's voice guidance lets you navigate menus and controls with audible descriptions through your headphones, providing complete non-visual access to all recorder functions other than file management and level meters. Some key features include: Next-Generation Audio Processing:

AI noise reduction that learns and removes unwanted noise, keeping your voice clear, natural, and detailed
Tone feature that instantly adds polish to your voice with EQ and de-essing, reducing harshness and adding warmth
Built-in compressor that keeps your podcast sounding crisp and balanced, smoothing out sudden shouts, laughter, and whispers

Professional Input Capabilities:

Four XLR inputs providing up to +70dB of gain, allowing you to use even the most demanding podcast mics
48V phantom power available on all channels
Dedicated gain control knobs and mute buttons for each input

Monitoring and Control:

4 headphone outputs with individual volume controls for everyone at the table
Backlit transport controls putting record and playback right at your fingertips Remote Guest Integration:
Support for two remote guests simultaneously via USB, Bluetooth (with optional BTA-2 adapter), or TRRS connection
Built-in mix-minus removes echo and feedback automatically
Can host up to 5-person podcasts using 3 mic inputs plus 2 remote connections

Recording and Production:

Records in 48 kHz/24-bit, the standard for video production
Saves a ready-to-publish stereo mix, plus individual channels for fine-tuned production, all to a microSD card up to 2 TB
Four assignable sound pads for triggering intros, jingles, and sound effects with a single tap
Includes built-in sounds (air horn, applause, laughter, rimshot) or load your own samples

Connectivity and Power:

USB-C connectivity works as a plug-and-play audio interface for streaming or recording on PC, Mac, iOS, or Android with full multitrack capability
Run it on two AA batteries or via USB from a mobile battery, bus power, or AC adapter
Battery life: approximately 3.5 hours on alkaline batteries with dynamic mics

Mobile Integration:

Connect directly to your phone to record pro-quality audio directly onto your phone's video, no editing required
Perfect for mobile journalism and on-location recording

Physical Design:

Compact, portable form factor weighing approximately 300g with batteries
Intuitive layout with dedicated physical controls for essential functions

This demonstration provides hands-on exploration of setup procedures, menu navigation with Voice Guide, recording workflows, remote guest configuration, sound pad programming, and practical tips for maximizing the P4Next's capabilities in real-world podcasting scenarios. The Zoom PodTrak P4Next retails for $179.99 USD and represents a significant advancement in accessible audio recording technology, combining broadcast-quality sound processing with comprehensive voice guidance for truly inclusive podcast production.

Episode 40 – Jonathan Mosen's review of the Zoom H1Essential Recorder

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 18:05:07 -0000

Jonathan's series on the Essential recorders from Zoom, which have accessibility features, concludes with the look at the Zoom H1Essential. This is the smallest member of the family and sells for just $99 USD. It can fit in any pocket, and offers high-quality 32-bit float recording. While understandably the recorder lacks some of the features of its larger siblings, it also boasts some features unique to this member of the family.

Episode 39 – Jonathan Mosen's review of the Zoom H4Essential recorder

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 23:28:14 -0000

Continuing his extensive look at the accessible Zoom Essential family, Jonathan demonstrates and reviews the Zoom H4Essential. With its compact size, powerful features and priced at just $199 USD, the H4Essential may be the Goldilocks recorder for many. While this review stands alone and therefore revisits many of the features found in the H6Essential, Jonathan expands further on the powerful mixer functionality and some other features.

Episode 38 – Jonathan Mosen's review of the Zoom H6Essential recorder

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:03:35 -0000

Jonathan Mosen begins his reviews of all three recorders in the Essential series, with the Zoom H6Essential

Zoom has provided these units so the reviews can be produced, but have not heard these reviews before publication, nor influence what they contain.

There is considerable interest from the blind community in the Zoom Essential series, due to the accessibility features available in this professional class of equipment.

The h6Essential is the most capable member of the series, providing six tracks of recording, interchangeable microphone capsules, 32 bit float, a playback mixer, audio interface capability and more.

Episode 37 – A game changer. Samuel Greene from Zoom North America discusses the fully accessible Essential Series recorders

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 04:12:58 -0000

Those of us who use Zoom digital recorders in our content creation are familiar with the work-arounds that blind people have used for years. We might prepare a menu map which we consult when we want to change a setting. We may have some degree of accessibility if we pair the recorder with our phone's and the recorder's corresponding app. But none of it is as efficient or as complete as the experience a sighted person has. That all changes with the new Essential Series from Zoom, the H1Essential, H4Essential, and H6Essential. Jonathan Mosen speaks with Samuel Greene, Zoom North America's Director of Product Development and Customer Support. We talk extensively about the accessible spoken menus, the benefits of 32 bit float recording, and the different features of the three members of the Essential series. Stay tuned as a future episode will have comprehensive demos of all three recorders.

Episode 36 – Jonathan Mosen reviews the Centrance PortCaster and PM1 PivotMic

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:50:46 -0000

From the manufacturer:

"PortCaster is a mobile audio interface for Podcasting, Live streaming and Videos. With this handheld, portable mixer you can host your own show, adding music and guests. PortCaster is easy to use and durable, which saves you time and money. Featuring warm, analog sound and an 8-hour rechargeable battery, PortCaster makes you sound clear and lets you Broadcast from Anywhere! Our new Jasmine™ mic preamps feature 65dB of low-noise gain and support all professional mics. Featuring analog limiters, mix-minus with a phone patch for remote guests, optional SD recorder, mono blend for streaming, and much more, PortCaster liberates your creative process, allowing you to work anywhere! PortCaster Discrete Mic Preamp Discrete Mic Preamps Sound quality starts with the Mic preamps. The improved version of our acclaimed Jasmine™ Mic Preamp features a custom, discrete transistor differential input stage. 65 dB of clean, low-noise gain makes it easy to use any condenser or dynamic microphone, including SM7B, RE20, etc. ondenser or dynamic microphone, including SM7B, RE20, etc.

Dual Optical Limiters To help better control recording levels, PortCaster features independent, soft-knee optical limiters for both Host and Guest, for a truly professional sound. Analog photovoltaic limiters are superior to their digital counterparts, as they can subtly catch the audio peaks early, preventing nasty digital clipping. Mix-minus for call-ins Mix-minus is a feature used by radio stations to add call-in guests to the program. Mix-minus prevents annoying audio feedback from traveling back to the caller through the phone line. With PortCaster you can have call-in guests, too! Mix-minus is included. Just connect your phone, and dial up your guest! Or use it as a phone patch during your VO session. enient mono blend knob (Insta-MONO) can combine both input channels, so that your audience on Instagram, Facebook Live, Webex, Zoom, etc., can hear both participants. Even stereo music or sound effects on Aux 3/4 can be mixed down to mono, if needed. We designed its battery system to offer reliable service in the field. The case is made from lightweight aluminum and the tactile controls make adjustments quick and easy. The built-in SD recorder, combined with our custom XY stereo mics turns PortCaster into a professional, high-quality mobile recorder. Your smartphone is an amazing audio production tool. Many apps let you edit, produce, and then upload your audio online in minutes. But how do you get quality audio into your phone in the first place? Now it’s simple! Set the PortCaster on your coffee table, connect a mic and the phone, start your favorite recording app and you’re recording — it’s that easy! Have a particular vocal mic that suits your voice? No problem. PortCaster offers 48V phantom power to accommodate any dynamic or condenser mic. The custom designed Jasmine™ Mic preamps deliver a world-class signal, designed to capture every nuance of the performance. PortCaster is a professional Mobile Recording Interface. It delivers broadcast-level audio quality and is used worldwide by radio stations, professional musicians, podcasters, life streamers and youtubers. This hand-held recording marvel packs a number of features previously available only in high-end studio interfaces, into an ideal form-factor for traveling audio professionals. PortCaster packs two boutique mic preamps with LED level monitoring, 48V phantom power, Dual Independent Limiters, Mono blend, USB blend, and more, into a handheld device the size of a passport! Our exclusive hybrid power system lets you run the unit off the internal rechargeable battery OR from the wall outlet (R4M, R4D models). By transforming your smartphone into a portable recording studio PortCaster creates an end-to-end mobile recording solution for journalists, podcasters, voiceover artists, and videographers — anyone who records on the go. PortCaster has two Neutrik™ input jacks, which accommodate professional microphones and one TRRS input jack for connecting a cell phone. Now you can easily add remote guests to your podcast. Simply dial them up and PortCaster will do the rest. Its analog Mix-minus circuitry will make sure the guest hears the entire podcast with the exception of their own voice. This prevents annyoing feedback from traveling down the phone line and it’s how big radio stations arrange call-in guests. With PortCaster, you can do this too! PortCaster is also a versatile mixer. It has an Auxiliary stereo input that allows you to effortlessly add background music or sound effects to your podcast. PortCaster can connect to a camera via its stereo line output. The top panel gives you easy access to all of the adjustments, using familiar analog pots. No searching through menu pages to find the right adjustment — quick and easy controls are always at your fingertips."

From a blindness perspective, PortCaster is particularly attractive because it has no screen, and no menus. Once you're familiar with the order of the controls, there are no menu layers to trip you up. Jonathan will demonstrate PortCaster in several common scenarios, and discuss who this device is right for. To purchase PortCaster, visit the Centrance Store.

Episode 35 – Damo McMorrow reviews the Roland R07 portable recorder

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 16:46:35 -0000

From the manufacturer: The R-07 packs mission-critical recording features into a stylish and ultra-portable device that goes anywhere life takes you. High-resolution audio, one-touch Scene memory, and Hybrid Limiting ensure great sounding recordings no matter what the situation. And wireless listening and remote control mean you can record with less wires in more places. The R-07 is simple and intuitive, goes anywhere, and provides mission-critical recording functions leaving your phone free to do what it does best. The R-07 looks great, sounds superb, and fits comfortably in your hand or your pocket. It’s easy to use yet provides truly professional results with one-touch recording setup. Its next-generation Bluetooth capabilities mean you can control, monitor and listen back wirelessly using supported smartphones, Apple Watch and Bluetooth speakers. It comes in three stylish colors and runs on two AA batteries or USB bus power. A recorder as compact and go-anywhere as the R-07 could end up in a lot of different recording situations. Whether it’s on-location interviews, on-the-road demos, classrooms, boardrooms, field recording, or just about anything else you can imagine, the R-07 can automatically apply the ideal settings. When you select a Scene, the sample rate, record mode, limiter, low cut, and input level instantly adjust to their optimal settings. And you can alter any of the settings and save them for next time, so you’ll never miss that magic moment.

Designed for a Wireless World The R-07 uses the latest Bluetooth technology with Qualcomm® aptX™ Low Latency for enhanced streaming performance. Remote control of up to four R-07 units at once—right from your tablet, smartphone, or Apple Watch. Manage recordings and ensure what’s being captured is exactly what you want, even while the R-07 is in a prime recording location, and out of reach. Listen on wireless headphones or Bluetooth speakers—all while cutting cable clutter and staying out of the way of your recording subjects. Safe and Sound With Dual Recording and Hybrid Limiting, you’ll never ruin a vital recording due to overload or clipping. And you won’t have to worry about artifacts from aggressive limiting either. The R-07 can make two simultaneous recordings—one at full level and another at a lower level with increased headroom. If there’s unexpected clipping in the main recording, you can replace that section with a portion of the lower-level backup recording. Hybrid Limiting can even handle this automatically, so you get all the safety of limiting with none of the downsides.

Episode 34 – Jonathan Mosen reviews and demonstrates the Audient Evo 16 audio interface

Sat, 03 Jun 2023 16:33:29 -0000

From the manufacturer:

Make studio quality recordings with EVO 16’s next-level audio performance. Eight award winning EVO intelligent mic preamps that set their own levels with Smartgain, the all new, groundbreaking Motion UI control system, and enough I/O firepower to tackle even the biggest of sessions, EVO 16 is truly a studio powerhouse, designed from the ground up to make recording easy.

Eight stunning Evo microphone preamps Evo 16's eight Evo mic preamps reflect Audient's 25 years of engineering innovation. These excellent-sounding pre's yield a respectable 58dB of gain for your microphones, along with impressive EIN specs for low-noise, low-distortion results. These digitally controlled analog preamps provide ultra-precise control, enabling you to set your gain with pinpoint accuracy. Matching the levels of stereo-paired mics has never been easier! Evo 16 also boasts top-notch AD/DA conversion with a remarkable 121dB of dynamic range. In short, this audio interface sounds amazing!

Smartgain takes the guesswork out of setting levels This incredible technology automatically sets the gain for all eight of the interface's channels — simultaneously — at the touch of a button. Smartgain employs advanced peak analysis to automatically analyse your input signals and adjust each channel's preamp gain to its optimal level. This feature not only safeguards against clipping, but it's also a huge time saver when you're recording drums or setting up large sessions. On top of that, it makes recording yourself much easier, since you won't need to continuously adjust your preamp gain.

Easy-to-use Motion UI control system Navigating Evo 16 is a walk in the park, thanks to its intuitive Motion UI control system. The interface is centered around a high-resolution TFT-LCD screen, which includes IPS technology for clear viewing at any angle. A channel status indicator displays the channel's name, levels, and functions activated with a push of a button. Crystal-clear, full-colour metering makes keeping an eye on your levels a breeze. What's more, Evo 16's 1-knob control and customisable F-button ensure simple, trouble-free operation.

Key Features: USB 2.0 audio interface provides 24-in/24-out over a common USB-C connection 8 analog Evo mic preamps yield 58dB of gain and digital-precise control Contains 2 JFET instrument inputs, 2 headphone outputs, and ample digital I/O Includes monitor control, audio loopback, and a word clock output Top-notch 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA converters supplies crystal-clear audio with 121dB of dynamic range Smartgain automatically analyses your input signals and adjust each channel's preamp gain Intuitive Motion UI control system with high-resolution TFT-LCD screen Channel status indicator displays the channel's name, levels, and functions activated Easy-to-read, full-colour metering makes keeping an eye on your levels a breeze 1-knob control and customisable F-button ensure simple, trouble-free operation.

Other show notes.

The Audient Evo range is a shining example of what can happen when a manufacturer engages with, and truly listens to, the blind community. The accessibility features of this family of audio interfaces will improve and simplify all kinds of audio production. Jonathan orientates you to the hardware and walks you through the software, using the Evo 16.

Episode 33 – Jonathan and Richard Mosen unbox and demonstrate the Zoom M2 MicTrak from a blindness perspective

Sun, 21 May 2023 04:50:58 -0000

The Zoom M2 MicTrak is a 199 USD microphone that records. Pop a Micro-SD card into the MicTrak, and without any bulky gadgets and cables, you've got stereo 32-bit float recording. The fact that you can record in any situation without the risk of distortion is of enormous benefit to blind people recording in the field. When the product was launched late last year, it got off to the worst possible start, with overwhelmingly negative feedback about the product being unusable due to chronic radio frequency interference.

Zoom Sound Labs recalled many of the original batch of microphones, acknowledging the problem and proclaiming it fixed. And it appears they are right. The RF problems are gone and the device seems dependable. This handy microphone is an easy-to-use, simple way to get quality recording of anything, anywhere.

In this demonstration, we'll unbox the M2 MicTrak, set it up, and take you through every single menu item on the device, so you can build a cheat sheet to help you set it up the way you like.

Episode 32 – Take your audio to the next level with Auphonic

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 04:57:45 -0000

Auphonic develops intelligent audio algorithms using a combination of AI and signal processing to provide an automated audio post production web service — an audio autopilot for podcasts, broadcasts, radio, interviews, audiobooks, lecture recordings, and more. Users just upload their recorded audio, and Auphonic will do the rest: neither complicated parameter settings nor audio expert knowledge are necessary. The site is fully screen reader accessible.

In this episode, Jonathan Mosen speaks with Georg Holzmann, the audio engineer who founded Auphonic, about what the service can do. He then offers a comprehensive demonstration of the power of Auphonic, creating single and multi-track productions, watch folders, connecting Auphonic to external services and using its advanced parameters.

Visit Auphonic at https://auphonic.com

Episode 31 – Neal Ewers reviews the Mackie EleMent Chromium USB Condenser Microphone with 2-Ch Mixer

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 18:37:11 -0000

From the manufacturer:

The Mackie EleMent Chromium USB condenser microphone is a true home studio beast, with tonnes of I/O control for an array of different uses. With 4 selectable polar patterns and Makie's legendary Onyx Preamp circuitry, Chromium puts that slick studio sound within reach. On top of that, you get a 1/4" instrument input that you can mix in with the mic. Want to play along with a track? Connect anything with a headphone output to the 1/8" Aux in and hear it in your headphones.

In this episode, Neal Ewers describes the microphone while using it, so you can hear its audio for yourself.

Episode 30 – Gary O'Donoghue reviews the Zoom F3 portable field recorder

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:54:19 -0000

From the manufacturer: With 32-bit float recording, the F3 effortlessly captures "the quietest raindrops and the loudest explosions. Its small footprint allows for this recorder to be placed anywhere, as you capture and monitor up to 192 kHz of high-quality audio. FOCUS ON THE SCENE When you’re working in the field or on set, sound levels can fluctuate often and quickly. The F3 allows you to adapt to your scene without having to set the gain or worry about clipping. In post, you’ll be able to work with your capture, regardless of extremely low or high levels. Featuring the dual A/D converters and low-noise preamps found in our professional F-Series recorders, the F3 guarantees high-quality recordings in any setting or situation. The F3 is built with durable side bars, standard tripod mount and slide-resistant rubber feet ensuring that you can mount it on your gear or hide it in any scene. It’s sturdy metal casing and locking XLR connectors is designed for use in a variety of environments."

Gary O'Donoghue reviews this recorder from a blindness perspective, including taking us on a tour of the F3 Control app for iOS.

Episode 29 – The Focusrite Vocaster Two from a blindness perspective

Sat, 16 Jul 2022 04:24:57 -0000

Jonathan Mosen demonstrates the Vocaster Two, one of two members of a new family of audio interfaces from Focusrite aimed at podcast creators, streamers, and anyone who works with voice.

This comprehensive tutorial and demonstration covers use cases, unboxing, installing and using in several common contexts. With its full accessibility, this could be the tool some blind people have been waiting for to kick start their podcasting journey.

Episode 28 – RODECaster Pro II walkthrough and accessibility_issues session

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 20:05:40 -0000

Since its release, Rode's RODECaster Pro has been a run-away success in the podcasting community. We covered the accessibility of the device in a previous episode. Now, Rode is back with the next generation in the series, the RODECaster Pro II.

Rode says,

The RØDECaster Pro II is the ultimate audio production solution for content creators, including streamers, podcasters and musicians. Combining revolutionary features with superior sound quality, endless customisability and unmatched ease of use, the RØDECaster Pro II is all you will ever need to record incredible audio for your content. Key Features: Fully integrated audio production studio for streamers, podcasters, musicians and content creators Ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamps™ (-131.5dBV EIN, 76dB gain) Four high-quality Neutrik® combo inputs for connecting microphones, instruments and line-level devices Nine individually assignable channels with six broadcast-quality physical faders and three virtual faders High-performance quad-core audio engine Studio-grade APHEX® audio processing and on-board effects Eight fully programmable SMART pads with bank switching Dual USB-C interfaces for connecting two computers or mobile devices Advanced Bluetooth® connectivity for high-quality phone call integration Multitrack or stereo recording to a microSD™ card, USB storage device or computer Four high-power headphone outputs and balanced ¼-inch line outputs 5.5-inch high-definition touchscreen with haptic feedback and rotary encoder for easy navigation and control New features and enhancements via regular firmware updates Designed and made in RØDE’s state-of-the-art facilities in Sydney, Australia.

And of course we say, "yeah but how accessible is it"?

Can Kirca and Neal Ewers have been advocating to Rode for accessibility improvements in the device. Have they delivered in RODECaster Pro II?

Join Neal and Can as they take you on a tour of the device from a blindness perspective.

Episode 27 – Jonathan Mosen shows you how to dramatically speed up your podcast recording process using drop-ins with Reaper

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 21:04:52 -0000

If you have been on the planet long enough to have worked with analogue tape in a professional recording environment, you're probably familiar with the drop-in method Jonathan demonstrates in this episode. If you're not, you may find that using this method, which Reaper so brilliantly supports, will save you a lot of time if you record solo podcasts or screen reader demos.

Episode 26 – David Edick reviews the CEntrance PortCaster and Mixerface

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 17:11:35 -0000

If you'd like a device with some of the functionality of the Zoom Podtrak P4 but with no menus to navigate and all physical switches, you may be interested in the PortCaster or its older sibling, the Mixerface.

PortCaster is a mobile audio interface for Podcasting, Live streaming and Videos. With this handheld, portable mixer you can host your own live talk show, with music and guests. A combination of Mobile Mixer, Recorder, and USB Audio Interface, PortCaster features a rechargeable battery that lasts 8 hours and warm, analog sound.

It couldn't be more accessible because all the switches are physical.

Learn more on the PortCaster web page.

Episode 25 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable, Ferrite for iOS

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 01:41:36 -0000

William Pogor joins us on the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable to discuss using Ferrite Recording Studio for iOS. Ferrite is a powerful multitrack recording suite, designed with some specific features for blind people using VoiceOver. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 24 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 21 June 2021, Izotope RX

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 20:27:50 -0000

Digital audio restoration has come a long way. It is generally considered that the best in the bunch is Izotope RX. In the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable, Brian Hartgen gave us a demonstration of some of the things this suite of products can do to clean up audio that’s less than optimal. Learn more at http://izotope.com Note, since we want you to hear the full effect of the demo, we have not applied any of our usual post-production processing to this file.

Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 23 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 14 June 2021, Anchor

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 20:37:47 -0000

Anchor is a popular podcasting platform that aims to simplify podcast creation, directory listing and publishing. It has become increasingly more accessible. Daniel Semro gives us a demonstration of publishing a simple podcast with Anchor. Others in Clubhouse contribute their experience and ask questions about the platform. Download the Anchor app from the App Store, or visit http://anchor.fm

Episode 22 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 7 June 2021

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 21:58:59 -0000

Our guests in this episode are Mark Hills and Marc Bakos, founders of Cleanfeed. They joined us in Clubhouse to talk about the service in general, also exchanging information about accessibility for blind people using screen readers. Check out Cleanfeed at http://cleanfeed.net Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 21 – Cleanfeed from a blindness perspective, a powerful, accessible tool for remote recording and collaboration

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 04:24:44 -0000

This podcast focusses on how to podcast from a blindness perspective. Cleanfeed is a tool which even offers an unlimited free tier that will take the audio quality of your remote podcast interviews to the next level. But there’s so much more you can use Cleanfeed for than podcasting. If you want to work with remote guests or co-hosts on Internet radio, or you do audio production and want to produce a talent who has their own studio, Cleanfeed will do it all without breaking a sweat. This outstanding service has been designed by audio professionals, for anyone who cares about the audio they produce. In this demo, Jonathan Mosen takes you on a thorough tour of Cleanfeed’s features and how and why you use them, all from the perspective of a blind person using JAWS for Windows. Check out Cleanfeed at http://cleanfeed.net Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

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Episode 20 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 31 May 2021

Mon, 31 May 2021 04:22:08 -0000

In this edition of the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable first broadcast live on Clubhouse, Can Kirca describes the Rodecaster Pro, a powerhouse of a mixer and recorder specifically for podcasting that has taken the podcast world by storm. How easy is it for blind people to use this device independently, particularly given that it has a touch screen? What can you do with it, and how does it compare with the Zoom Podtrak P4? Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

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Episode 19 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 24 May 2021

Mon, 24 May 2021 15:16:51 -0000

We were delighted to have Ed Filowat as our guest taking questions and suggestions from the Blind Podmaker community on Clubhouse. Ed develops Backpack Studio. Backpack Studio is an app for iOS for recording podcasts in real-time or streaming live. Boasting advanced features like dynamic audio compression, a sound board and saving to various destinations in a variety of formats, it’s a powerful tool, and its VoiceOver accessibility is exemplary. Ed it hitting it out of the park with a new feature in beta right now, Backpack Live. With Backpack Live, you can get together with remote guests in a session which can be recorded and/or streamed live. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com t

Episode 18 – Demonstration and discussion about Backpack Live with Ed Filowat, Developer of Backpack Studio

Tue, 18 May 2021 21:04:31 -0000

Backpack Studio is an app for iOS for recording podcasts in real-time or streaming live. Boasting advanced features like dynamic audio compression, a sound board and saving to various destinations in a variety of formats, it’s a powerful tool, and its developer, Ed Filowat, has ensured that the app’s VoiceOver accessibility is exemplary. Ed it hitting it out of the park with a new feature in beta right now, Backpack Live. With Backpack Live, you can get together with remote guests in a session which can be recorded and/or streamed live. I recorded this interview with Ed using Backpack Live in Backpack Studio, so you can hear what it sounds like. The feature is in open beta right now and will be a monthly subscription when it is released. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 17 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 17 May 2021

Sun, 16 May 2021 20:29:12 -0000

Glen Gordon, host of Freedom Scientific’s FSCast, joins us to talk about editing your podcast. What should you take out, how should you decide, and what makes a good edit? There are also helpful contributions and questions from those who came on stage in our Clubhouse room. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 16 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 10 May 2021

Sun, 09 May 2021 20:43:38 -0000

It’s an open forum this week. Apple has broken podcasting submission and their Podcasts app while introducing a new monetisation system for podcast creators. We discuss this as well as Anker, podcast advertising, microphones and more. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode Notes

Notes go here

Episode 15 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 3 May 2021

Mon, 03 May 2021 03:09:26 -0000

In This edition, Derek Lane joins us to answer your Reaper questions. Reaper is powerful multitrack digital audio workstation software available for PC and Mac. With the aid of Osara, it is highly accessible. A great jumping off point for Reaper accessibility is http://reaperaccessibility.com . If you’re just getting started, be sure to download Reaper, Osara and SWS. To get in touch with Derek, check out http://lanesaudio.com Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 14 – How to assign a sound to a soundpad on the Zoom Podtrack P4

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 07:06:05 -0000

Already, there is a growing group of happy blind Zoom Podtrak P4 owners. In this demo,

henk abma demonstrates how you can assign files to the soundpad feature on the device, so if you have a podcast theme or want to use sound effects, they are only a button press away.

Episode 13 – Tim Cumings demonstrates the Zoom Podtrak P4

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 07:01:33 -0000

This demonstration of the Zoom Podtrak P4 was first published on the Mosen At Large Podcast.

podcasting is fun! If you’d like a new piece of equipment to help you do some of the trickier things more easily, like recording multiple local or remote guests, having a portable device to carry around offering multiple mic and headphone sockets and even allowing you to use your smartphone as a telephone hybrid, then you’ll be very interested in this demo by Tim Cumings of the Zoom Podtrak P4. For its cost, it does a lot, and a blind person can become familiar enough with it to use it well.

Episode 12 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 26 April 2021, the Zoom Podtrak P4

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 21:33:34 -0000

Tim Cumings joins us to follow up on his Mosen At Large review of the Zoom Podtrak P4. Other users comment on its use from a blindness perspective as well. From the Zoom website, Purpose-built for producing polished multi-person podcasts anywhere you go, the Zoom PodTrak P4 is a cost-effective portable multitrack podcast recorder that lets you quickly record up to four mics, handle 2 echo-free remote call-ins simultaneously, trigger sound samples, and provide separate headphone feeds for all your guests, all at the same time and with refreshing simplicity. From the intuitive, tactile controls to the plentiful battery life and powerful audio processing functions, the PodTrak P4 is well equipped to help you record or stream pristine audio for panel podcasts. Dynamic and condenser mics, customizable sound pads, call-ins via your smartphone or computer, and independent headphone outs; the PodTrak P4 can manage everything you need a podcast production station to do. Extra touches including built-in limiters and low-cut filters for enhancing your tracks, an integrated mix-minus function to prevent echo and feedback for remote guests, and multiple powering methods make the PodTrak a truly powerful all-in-one solution for podcasting. Four High-Gain Mic Inputs Whether you rely on announcer-style dynamic microphones such as the Zoom ZDM-1 (available separately) or prefer the sheen of crisp condenser mics, the PodTrak P4's four mic preamps are up to the task. Each features a balanced XLR input jack, selectable +48V phantom power, and up to 70 dB of gain, plenty of boost to ensure optimal recording levels with all kinds of mics, such as the venerable Shure SM7B. Headphone Mixes for You and Your Guests Outfitted with four 3.5mm stereo headphone outputs, the PodTrak P4 can provide you and your guests with independent headphone mixes, each with its own level control above the corresponding headphone jack. No matter the scenario—an exclusive interview or a raucous panel podcast, everyone will be able to clearly hear what's going on. Echo-Free Remote Call-Ins Knowing how frequently podcasters collaborate with remote guests, Zoom integrated two ways to accommodate call-ins—plug your smartphone directly into the 3.5mm TRRS phone port, connect a computer via USB to pipe in the audio from your conferencing software of choice, or do both at the same time to feature two remote guests. Whether you use TRRS, USB, or both, the PodTrak P4 automatically prevents echo and feedback with its built-in mix-minus feature; your remote guests will never be distracted by hearing their own voice echo back to them. Supports BTA-2 for Wireless Remote Guests If you prefer to go wire-free for call-ins, connect the Zoom BTA-2 Bluetooth receiver (available separately) to the PodTrak P4 and use your smartphone to wirelessly pipe in your call audio via Bluetooth. Assignable Sound Pads with Preset Sounds The PodTrack P4 is equipped with four sound pads next to the LCD screen, perfect for elevating your podcast production quality with music, jingles, ads, sound effects, or pre-recorded interviews triggered at the push of a button. Use the 11 preset sounds or load your own samples for even more versatility. Plus, a dedicated knob allows easy adjustment of the sound pad output volume. Instant Access to Gain and Mute for Each Input Each mic input on the PodTrak P4 has its own dedicated gain control knob. There's no track selection or button pressing required to optimize your recording levels; just turn the dials (clearly labeled from 0 to 10) anytime you need to adjust the gain. Additionally, a mute button is provided for every input, so you can quickly mute/unmute guests without having to navigate through menus. Record up to 10 Tracks Simultaneously With the PodTrak P4, you can simultaneously record up to 10 tracks to an SD card—four tracks from the input channels, four tracks from the sound pads, and two tracks from the overall stereo mix. SD Card Recording and Audio Interface Functionality Designed for truly convenient portability, the PodTrack P4 can record directly to an SDHC card (up to 32GB capacity) or an SDXC card (up to 512GB capacity). A 4GB card will yield over three hours of 16-bit / 44.1 kHz 4-channel recording time using the BWF-compliant WAV format for uncompressed audio quality and industry-standard file compatibility. Note that media cards are available separately, and larger capacity cards may increase startup times. Alternatively, use the PodTrak P4 as a 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface (at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz) with your Mac/Windows computer or iOS/Android mobile device (separately available Apple Camera Connection Kit is required for use with iOS devices). Powered via AA Batteries, AC Adapter, or USB Power the PodTrak P4 via two AA batteries, plug it into a wall outlet with an AD-17 AC adapter (available separately), or use an external USB battery. Alkaline batteries can keep the P4 running for up to four hours of continuous recording. When using the P4 in the stereo USB audio interface mode, USB bus powering is also possible. Signal Processing Adds Sonic Polish The PodTrak P4's onboard effects allow you to add polish to your recordings without resorting to postproduction processing on a computer. Built-in limiters compensate for fluctuations in input level, while low-cut filters help eliminate wind noise, blowing, and other kinds of low-frequency rumble. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 11 – Comparison of four microphones

Sat, 24 Apr 2021 16:18:01 -0000

In this episode, Adrian Tamasan compares 4 microphones: 3 dynamics and one condenser. Which one is your pick for your podcast channel? To help with the comparison, there is no processing in this recording and the EQ is flat. All microphones are connected to the same mixer and use the same cable. There are volume fluctuations but this is the best way to allow you to hear the microphones and judge their different sound. Each microphone mentioned have a link below where you can go to check the product page for technical specifications. list of 4 items • Sontronics Solo • Behringer XM8500 • Rode Podmic • Rode NT1 condenser microphone list end Let Adrian know which one you think sounds better for your podcast. Tweet him @AccessibleCompu Enjoy your listening and have fun podcasting! Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 10 – That Real Blind Tech show talks Reaper and all things audio with Derek Lane

Sat, 24 Apr 2021 16:00:29 -0000

Episode 9 – Neal Ewers demonstrates the Discover D312U microphone headset

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 09:12:41 -0000

Neal Ewers demonstrates the Discover D312U microphone headset, which has recently been discussed on our Blind Podcast Creators email group. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 8 – Neal Ewers demos the Mpow 071 headset microphone

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 04:07:27 -0000

Neal Ewers demonstrates the Mpow 071 headset microphone, which has recently been discussed on our Blind Podcast Creators email group. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 7 – How and where to host your podcast

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 21:29:42 -0000

This is a recording of the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable hosted in the Blind Podmaker room on Clubhouse on 19 April 2021. This week, blind podcasters reflect on their experience with various podcast hosting services. People discuss the pros and cons of various options, looking at accessibility, ease of use, features offered and more. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 6 – Recording quality screen reader demos

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 20:43:32 -0000

My sincere apologies that due to a misconfiguration issue, I did not record the audio from Clubhouse for the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable. However, here’s a presentation from me, Jonathan Mosen, about recording a good screen reader demo, including some of the stylistic and technical things you might want to consider. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 5 – Shaun Preece shows us how to get started with Audacity

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 02:13:28 -0000

This episode is generously contributed by Shaun Preece, who shows us how to get started with audacity. Audacity is a free, powerful, cross-platform digital audio work station, and if you’re looking for something to create your podcast with, it’s worth your consideration. Have a tool or product you know how to use and want to demo to the blind podcasting community? Please be in touch, we are always glad of contributions for the podcast. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 4 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 5 April 2021

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 21:21:31 -0000

Some of the topics discussed this week include: Jingles for your podcast, transcripts, RME audio interfaces, accessibility of the Rode Podcaster, the Zoom Podtrack P4, making the most of audio on Clubhouse with just the iPhone’s built-in mic, good headphones for podcast monitoring. Be sure to follow the Blind Podmaker club on Clubhouse, and join our Blind Podmaker email group. Send a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodmaker.com

Episode 3 – Matt Basta, creator of the Pinecast podcast hosting service

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 11:20:28 -0000

Jonathan Mosen speaks with matt Basta, founder of Pinecast about why he got into the crowded podcast space, and the philosophy behind Pinecast. If you'd like to give Pinecast a try and get two free months, you can use Jonathan's referral code and support keeping The Blind Podmaker alive. The code is: r-dac7da

Episode 2 – Review of some podcast hosts from a blindness perspective

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 07:24:17 -0000

This episode draws from the Mosen At Large archives. Are you thinking about starting a podcast, or perhaps you already run one and aren't happy with where your podcast is being hosted? Jonathan Mosen reviews some podcast hosts from a blindness perspective. Services mentioned include: Libsyn, Anchor, Podbean, SoundCloud, Buzzsprout, Captivate, Transistor, Simplecast, Castos, and my favourite podcast host of the moment and new home for Mosen At Large, Pinecast. Jonathan makes mention of the Auphonic post-production service, and Rev for podcast transcriptions. If you’d like to take Pinecast for a spin, use Jonathan's referral code to get a 40% discount for your first four months and help out with the costs of running The Blind Podmaker at the same time. The code is: r-dac7da

Episode 1 – Blind Podcasters' Roundtable for 29 March 2021 featuring Dan Kelley from Ohio State School for the Blind

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 01:03:03 -0000

Welcome to The Blind Podmaker podcast. This is a recording of the Blind Podcasters’ Roundtable from Clubhouse for 29 March, featuring Dan Kelley from the Ohio State School for the Blind. Dan talks about the work he is doing with his students and how it assists their educational goals. Listeners also discuss compression, the Auphonic tools, and Isotope RX. Don’t forget to subscribe to our Blind Podmaker email group by sending a blank email to creators-subscribe@TheBlindPodMaker.com.

And if you’re on Clubhouse check out The Blind Podmaker club.