Optimizing Remote Multitrack Audio Recording with Focusrite 18i16 and StreamYard for Podcast Production
Producing a remote podcast with multiple microphones and high-quality audio can be a complex challenge, especially when working with proprietary platforms like StreamYard that lack native multitrack recording capabilities. If you’re managing a setup where audio and video are handled remotely across different locations, understanding how to effectively capture and record individual microphone tracks becomes essential for smooth post-production editing.
In this article, we’ll explore strategies for achieving separate microphone tracks in a remote podcast environment, focusing on hardware and software solutions compatible with your Focusrite 18i16 audio interface and StreamYard platform.
Understanding the Current Setup
Let’s first outline the key components involved:
- Location: Studio in NYC with remote producer in Tucson, AZ
- Hardware:
- Focusrite 18i16 audio interface with 4 microphones
- 4 headphones with splitter
- Gaming PC with large monitor
- Three Logitech Brio webcams
- Software & Platform:
- StreamYard for video conferencing and guest management
- Additional tools like Voicemeeter Banana, Audacity, and Reaper for audio processing
While the video setup—adding each Brio camera as separate browser tabs in StreamYard—is functioning well, capturing individual microphone tracks remains problematic.
The Core Challenge: Multichannel Recording with StreamYard
StreamYard is a browser-based streaming platform optimized for remote video interviews but does not natively support multitrack audio recording. Your focus, therefore, shifts to the hardware’s capability to output separate microphone channels that can be recorded separately for post-production editing.
However, many USB audio interfaces, including some configurations of the Focusrite 18i16, tend to group multiple inputs into stereo pairs or recognize them as combined channels rather than isolated mono tracks. This leads to limitations when trying to record each microphone separately directly into your streaming platform.
Key Considerations & Potential Solutions
1. Configuring the Focusrite 18i16 for Multi-Track Recording
- Driver and Software Settings: Ensure you’re using the latest Focusrite drivers and control software (e.g., Focusrite Control). Some interfaces support multiple mono outputs, but this can be limited by driver architecture.
- DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) Recording: While StreamYard doesn’t natively record multi-channel audio, you can set up your
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