Creating a high-quality, multi-participant video doesn’t have to break the bank. In this post, I’ll share a simple yet powerful setup for recording a small roundtable discussion panel with just two smartphones—one for video and one for audio. This approach delivers crisp sound and fluid conversation flow, while avoiding the cost and complexity of using mixers or professional microphones.
Why Use This Setup?
When recording in-person panel discussions, many creators either:
- Use a bunch of microphones with a mixer (expensive and complicated),
- Rely solely on a phone’s internal mic (easy but poor audio), or
- Face issues with overlapping voices, mic handling noise, or audio sync problems.
This setup avoids all of that by combining simplicity and quality.
The Gear You Need
- Phone #1 – Video Camera
- Set this phone to record the full shot of your panel.
- Place it on a tripod or a stable surface for a steady view, or move it around to focus on the active participant.
- Phone #2 – Audio Recorder
- Use the built-in voice recording app.
- Hold it like a mic: each participant speaks into it during their turn.
The Smart Audio Trick
Here’s the key idea: instead of using a central mic or lapels, you pass the recording phone around—not constantly, just subtly. The person speaking holds it lightly or has it in front of them.
Benefits:
- Better sound quality because they’re close to the mic.
- Less crosstalk, since people are encouraged to speak in turn.
- Avoids mic rustle from clipped-on devices or desk-mounted options.
It also adds a rhythm to the conversation that makes it more engaging.
Post-Production: Syncing in Final Cut Pro or similar
Once you’re done recording:
- Import both files into Final Cut Pro.
- Use the automatic sync function (or manually align waveforms).
- Mute the video’s original audio, and use the cleaner audio from Phone #2.
Final Cut Pro and most modern video editors like DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro handle this very well.
Budget-Friendly and Effective
This method is:
- Cost-efficient: No mixers, no XLR mics.
- Simple: Anyone with two smartphones can do it.
- Flexible: Works in coffee shops, co-working spaces, or home studios.
You get professional-sounding audio, clean video, and a natural debate format that encourages turn-taking and clarity.
Final Tips
- Do a 5-second countdown before you start, so syncing is easier.
- Ask guests not to tap or grip the phone tightly.
- Test for ambient noise and choose a quiet spot if possible.
- Make sure both phones have enough batteries and space and don’t auto-lock.
Conclusion
Whether you’re filming a podcast, a local panel, or a behind-the-scenes discussion, this two-phone method is a game-changer. It keeps your production lightweight and focused on conversation, not on gear.
Example video
Jos Velasco.
CC0 licensed photo by mdburnette from the WordPress Photo Directory.
If you want a more advanced setup, I suggest watching this video:
Subscribe to my blog for more tips on WordPress and organizing events.
Leave a Reply