Topic: Skype Delay

Adam Curry explains his technical process for "sculpting" the show's sound using noise gates and compression to eliminate ambient room noise and create a sense of intimacy. They discuss how the silence created by noise gates can actually grab a listener's attention. The hosts joke about who the "star" of the show is, comparing their dynamic to the Smothers Brothers.

The discussion shifts to the technical aspects of radio production and the "theater of the mind." Dvorak recounts his time at TechTV's Silicon Spin, where he advocated for better sound engineering, citing MIT Media Lab studies that link high-quality audio to perceived picture quality. Curry explains his use of noise gates and compression to create a professional "custom sound" despite the limitations of Skype.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 285 of the No Agenda show from their respective locations in Southern California and Silicon Valley. The hosts troubleshoot a three-second audio delay occurring over their Skype connection. They establish the "Gitmo Nation" theme and the "Media Assassination" branding for the broadcast dated March 10, 2011.

The technical challenges of recording podcasts over Skype versus in-person studio sessions are explored, focusing on timing and audio delay. The hosts debate the merits of the expensive Countryman omnidirectional microphones, which are popular for stage use and travel due to their light weight, despite concerns about fit and "slushy" sibilance.