Podcast Studios for Rent in Los Angeles

Podcasts are a big thing these days, with hundreds of options available on either Spotify, YouTube or other platforms. If you want to be on the list of big names, you have to step up your game when it comes to production. Even if you’re recording with a visual image, remember to focus on the audio and make it as crystal clear as possible. There is only so much you can do in post-production, so make sure to prepare the room beforehand. In case of recording in a group, make sure to prepare the space for as little noise as possible.

With Tagvenue you’ll be able to find the best podcast studios in Los Angeles and in the local area. Getting a podcast out into the world may be a stressful thing to do, but that’s where we come in to make things a little easier. Check out professional spaces filled with fancy equipment, where you can sit down, start recording and not worry about soundproofing rooms, running around to buy cables or wondering if your recording process is professional enough. 

Scroll through our list of fantastic podcast studios in Los Angeles, and make sure to check out our studios rental guide and equipment checklist!

Podcast studios equipment checklist

Some studios will have everything you need, while for others you might need to bring some equipment. Some spaces also offer bits and bobs to rent on top of the venue rental. Make sure to contact the host of the venue and ask about the details and the additional prices of equipment if there are any. 

Here’s a list of the most important things you should aim to have in a podcast studio:

• A very good microphone. Either a USB or an XLR. The difference is that you’re going to use a USB microphone if you’re recording alone, while with an XLR you can record with multiple people. This way you can hook up multiple microphones to one mixer.  
• Computer. We don’t need to say that you need a place to store your recording. A computer is going to be the place where you will upload all your files. You should opt for having your own computer, even if the podcast studio offers its own. It’s going to be more comfortable to store your personal files straight after the recording, or just have a backup copy in case something fails. Which of course can happen with big projects, so you should be prepared to act if it does. 

• Headphones. People recording podcasts should always aim to have headphones. This prevents making audio mistakes, especially if you’re recording in a group. Make sure that the headphones you have don’t let any noise through, so that the mics don’t pick up extra sound, which might be hard to get rid of in post-production later.

• Pop filter or windscreen. A total must-have when recording. Like we mentioned before, it’s good to have a recording as clear as possible, so you don’t have to sit for hours in editing software, deleting every breath. A pop filter or windscreen gets rid of any unnecessary noise, rustling and prevents air blasts if you happen to put too much emphasis on certain words when speaking.

• Microphone stand. Your microphone will need to be placed on top of something, and the best choice is going to be a microphone stand. Don’t play around with popping the microphone on books, or have it propped up against random items, because that could ruin the end effect. With a microphone stand, you’ll be able to place the microphone wherever you want.

• Headphone Amplifier. If you plan on having more than one person on the podcast, you’re going to need an amplifier, so everyone can plug in their headphones and hear everyone else speak. It makes the experience that much more comfortable.

• Shock Mount. This prevents the microphone from picking up sudden movement. If you’ve ever seen a microphone that wobbles, it was probably fixed to a shock mount. Some companies produce mics with shock mounts already installed. 

• Acoustic Treatment. If you’re renting a studio, then it should have some good acoustic treatment inside. If you’ve ever seen egg boxes stuck to walls, then you probably know what we’re talking about. Of course, you can expect much more professional acoustic treatment in studios. If the venue is located on a busy street, then soundproof walls are going to be a must-have. Ask the host about diffusers and acoustic panels if you feel unsure.

• Editing Software (DAW). You’ll need a space to edit your audio, which is where editing software comes in. For beginners, programs such as Audacity or GarageBand are going to be a good start. You might also want to check out Adobe Audition. It’s a little harder to learn, but give yourself some time and patience, and you’re bound to get the hang of it. If the recording process is the only thing that interests you, you can always delegate this task to someone else. 

With the equipment out of the way, make sure to check out our FAQ for some more podcast studios rental advice.

Podcast Studios in Los Angeles FAQ

Why do I need to rent a podcast studio in Los Angeles?

You still might be asking yourself this question, but we hope that the equipment list is extensive enough to answer you. Apart from the obvious, we really recommend renting a podcast studio since it makes the recording process a lot less stressful. All you need to do is choose the space. The rest is set up and all you have to do is to hit record and do the creative stuff. Renting a studio is also a time saver since all you need to do is just go to the space and record. It will ensure that your audio sounds professional. You just won’t be able to not be proud of the work that you’ve done. Last but not least, some studios offer services to help you with the recording process, setting up equipment, etc. Meaning that all the work will be done for you!

How much do podcast studios cost in Los Angeles?

The price varies depending on the studio, but you can expect to rent podcast studios at around $100 per hour. The prices depend on the amount of equipment in the studio, and if the venue offers only audio or a visual space as well. (All data from Tagvenue.com)

What are some of the best podcast studios in Los Angeles?

A place ideal for this adventure is the Podcast Room at Unita Manhattan Beach. This cool spot is perfect for shooting podcasts accompanied by a visual image. It’s soundproof, it has the equipment, and it’s honestly perfect. For $115 per hour, it’s a great deal for the whole package. Another favorite of ours is the Control Room at Silent Zoo Studios. This great space is actually located in Glendale, so take your car up north if needed, and book this space from a starting price of $100 per hour.

What should I look out for if I want to rent a studio for a visual podcast?

The biggest factor that you should keep in mind when renting a studio space that you want to show off in your video, is definitely the light. Apart from the background, which of course will also be the focus of your video, you need to remember about making the image crystal clear. You can do that by filming with a good camera, but remember that with bad lighting no camera will perform well enough! Get some studio lamps, and light diffusers - play around with the equipment until you get a perfect, crystal clear shot!