How to Record a Two-Person Podcast on a Sony Camera Using the Rode Wireless Micro
Recording a video podcast on a Sony camera can feel intimidating, especially when it comes to audio. Many creators invest in a great camera and lenses, then struggle to figure out how to capture clean, professional sound without complicated setups or syncing issues.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the easiest way to record a two-person video podcast directly into a Sony camera using the Rode Wireless Micro camera kit. This setup is simple, reliable, and perfect for creators who want great podcast audio without extra gear or technical headaches.
Studio Gear You’ll Need
Sigma Lens
https://geni.us/8ttQ
Sony Camera
Dummy Battery
Microphone
Camera Tripod
Watch the Full Breakdown
Why Audio Is the Biggest Pain Point for Sony Podcast Creators
Thousands of creators search every month for the best Sony camera for video podcasting, but what they are really asking is a different question:
How do I connect microphones to this thing without ruining my audio?
You have two main options when recording podcast audio with a Sony camera:
Record audio directly into the camera
Record audio into a computer and sync later
In this article, we focus on the first option because it is the fastest, cleanest, and most beginner-friendly method, especially when paired with a wireless microphone system designed for cameras.
The Simple Two-Person Sony Podcast Setup
For this walkthrough, we are using a proven creator-friendly setup:
Sony ZV-E10 camera
Sigma 16mm lens
SD card
Dummy battery for long recording sessions
Rode Wireless Micro camera kit
Included 3.5mm TRS cable
The Rode Wireless Micro receiver mounts directly onto the Sony camera hot shoe and connects via the included cable. Each person wears a small wireless microphone clipped to their clothing. No desk mics. No audio interface. No extra cables running across the room.
This setup allows both speakers to move naturally, gesture freely, and stay focused on the conversation instead of microphone technique.
Recording Audio Directly Into a Sony Camera
Once the receiver is connected, the Sony camera treats it like an external microphone input. This means your audio is recorded straight into the video file, eliminating the need for syncing audio in post-production.
This approach is ideal if:
You want a fast workflow
You are recording solo or with one guest
You prefer simplicity over complex routing
It also reduces the chances of technical errors that often happen when recording audio separately.
Understanding Merged vs Split Audio
One of the most powerful features of the Rode Wireless Micro camera kit is the ability to choose how audio is sent to the camera.
Merged Audio Mode
In merged mode, both microphones are combined and sent evenly to the left and right channels. This is the default setting and the safest choice for most creators.
Merged mode is best if:
You edit your own podcast
You want a simple, ready-to-use audio file
You are new to audio editing
Split Audio Mode
In split mode, each microphone is sent to its own channel. One speaker appears on the left channel, the other on the right.
Split mode is ideal if:
You work with an editor
You want separate EQ and noise reduction per speaker
You plan to do advanced audio cleanup
If you use split mode, you must remember to center both channels during editing. Otherwise, listeners may hear one speaker on only one side, which creates a poor listening experience.
The Most Important Sony Audio Setting Most Creators Miss
This is where many creators accidentally ruin their audio.
Sony cameras are designed with internal microphones in mind. By default, the camera’s audio recording level is set far too high for external wireless microphones.
If you do not change this setting, your audio will clip, distort, and become unusable.
The Correct Sony Audio Record Level
Sony officially recommends lowering the camera’s audio record level when using external microphones.
A good starting range is:
Audio record level between 3 and 7
Aim for an average audio level around -12 dB
This gives you enough headroom to avoid distortion while keeping your signal clean and strong.
Adjusting Audio Levels on the Sony ZV-E10
On the Sony ZV-E10, audio levels are easily adjusted using the Function menu.
Press the FN button on the camera
Select the microphone icon
Adjust the audio record level using the control wheel
Even with the camera level set correctly, you may still need to reduce the output gain on the Rode receiver.
Setting the Correct Output Gain on the Rode Receiver
The Rode Wireless Micro receiver includes a simple on-device menu with just a few options.
To fine-tune your audio:
Open the receiver menu
Navigate to Output Gain
Reduce the level if your audio meters are peaking
Once adjusted properly, your audio should hover around -12 dB during normal speech, giving you clean sound with no distortion.
Displaying Audio Meters on Sony Cameras
If you do not see audio meters on your Sony screen, you may need to change the display settings.
Use the Display button to cycle through screen layouts until the audio meters appear. Some display modes hide meters entirely, which can lead to accidental clipping during recording.
Always confirm you can see audio levels before pressing record.
Why Wireless Lavalier Mics Are Ideal for Podcasting
Wireless microphones like the Rode Wireless Micro offer several advantages:
No mic technique to worry about
Natural hand movement and body language
Clean, consistent distance from the mic
Fast setup for interviews and events
They are especially helpful when recording guests who are not comfortable holding microphones or maintaining proper positioning.
Recording Directly to Camera vs Recording to a Computer
Some creators choose to record audio into a computer using recording software. This can provide higher-quality audio conversion and easier multitrack editing.
However, recording directly into the camera offers:
Faster workflow
Fewer technical steps
Less room for error
For most podcasters and video creators, the slight quality difference is worth the convenience and reliability of recording straight into the Sony camera.
Final Thoughts on Sony Podcast Audio
With the right microphone and a few simple settings, recording clean two-person podcast audio on a Sony camera does not have to be complicated.
The Rode Wireless Micro camera kit makes it easy to:
Record directly into your camera
Avoid syncing audio later
Get professional sound with minimal setup
Once your audio is dialed in, the final piece of the puzzle is lighting. In our next guide, we break down the best lighting setups for video podcasts, from budget-friendly options to professional studio configurations.
If you want our free Sony camera settings resource with screenshots and step-by-step instructions, comment Sony on the video and we’ll send it to you.
