How to Choose a Studio for a Multi-Guest Podcast

Choose a multi-guest podcast studio around the total number of speakers and how they will interact. Enough seats is only the starting point: every contributor needs a comfortable speaking position, a useful view of the others and appropriate recording coverage.

Count hosts as well as guests. Then describe the format to the studio: an interview with two guests, a moderated panel and a free-flowing roundtable can need different arrangements even when the headcount is identical.

Match the set to the actual group

Finchley's Dialogue Set is designed for two to four people. The Lounge Set accommodates up to five people on camera.

For a larger discussion, the Roundtable Set is described for six to eight guests, with the exact arrangement depending on the production. Confirm the total participant count, including the host, and the proposed setup before booking.

These descriptions do not automatically include additional off-camera crew. Declare everyone attending so the studio can assess the complete arrangement.

Check whether people can talk comfortably

Ask how the speakers will be seated and where they will look during the discussion. Someone who must repeatedly turn away from their microphone to address another guest may be harder to record consistently.

If possible, review the layout from the participants' positions as well as the camera view. Make sure people can see their notes without blocking another speaker or moving awkwardly.

Mention access, seating or interpreter requirements before the layout is fixed. A slightly different arrangement may be more useful than adding another camera.

Agree audio coverage for every voice

Confirm the microphone arrangement and whether individual microphone tracks will be delivered. Separate recordings give an editor more control over each voice, although they do not remove every instance of one person being heard by another microphone.

Check that all speakers can hear any remote contributor or playback they are expected to discuss. Explain those requirements before the session rather than introducing a call during the recording.

The goal is a clear conversation. A prominent equipment brand is less useful than an operator who has checked each participant's actual speaking position.

Ask to see the proposed camera views

For a filmed panel, ask which views cover the host and every guest. There may be individual views, shared views and a wider group view; not every participant needs a dedicated camera for every format.

Check that one guest will not disappear behind another in a shared shot. Mention vertical clips or product demonstrations if those are part of the plan, because they can change the framing needs.

Also confirm whether you receive separate camera recordings, a switched programme or another agreed combination.

Give the panel a hosting plan

Nominate a moderator and share a short running order. Use clear invitations to speak rather than expecting every guest to find a gap in a crowded conversation.

Allow time for introductions, microphone checks and breaks. If the group changes between episodes, include a fresh check of seating and coverage rather than treating it as an instant swap.

To find a podcast studio in London for your panel, send Finchley the speaker count and format. Add crew, remote guests and intended outputs so the team can recommend the appropriate set and recording arrangement.