We're proud to be supporters of Sarah Steel's Let's Talk About Sects, the award-winning podcast on the history of a sect's leaders, their members and the psychology of cults.

LTAS 5th Season launches on the 14th September 2022 and we're curious to see what stories Sarah has for us this time around - we're sure it will be captivating!

We caught up with Sarah and LTAS's composer and sound designer, Joe Gould, to find out what A-T gear they use to help create the podcast and in their every day life. 

You can listen to Let's Talk About Sects on all major podcast streaming services such as Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify. For the full list head here.

And if you love the podcast you can support the podcast on Patreon or you can use LTAS's affiliate discount code - LTAS10 - to get 10% off the Audio-Technica Australia online store.

Sarah Steel, independent producer and creator of the award-winning podcast Let’s Talk About Sects

AT2020USB+: I started Let’s Talk About Sects on an AT2020 and it served me so well! Really easy to plug in and record straight into your choice of DAW, without having to worry about audio interfaces. I can’t believe I now know what all of that stuff means.

BP40: This is the mic I upgraded to after a few seasons of the show, when I was a bit less intimidated by the interface requirements. The sound is beautiful and warm, with a lot of detail. And because it’s hypercardioid it rejects a lot more background noise.

AT803B: I have a couple of lavalier mics, and I like to use these when I want my interview subject to be really relaxed and not worry too much about where they are in relation to the microphone. I’ve had some excellent results with these.

ATH-ANC900BT: OK so these are nothing to do with podcasting, but they’ve saved me a few times. Wireless noise-cancelling headphones are for long-haul flights (or long-delayed flights) and when your neighbours, with whom you share a wall, have decided to gut their house and go through a year of intense renovations.

ATH-M40x: I started LTAS with these headphones, and they’re still going strong. This whole range of products is great, because you can find an option to suit your budget and it’ll always do a great job.

ATH-M60x: These are the headphones I use the most today, and they’re my go-to for listening to music as well as for interviews and recording narration.

Joe Gould, LTAS composer and sound designer, and drummer for ARIA-nominated The Crooked Fiddle Band

ATM450: This mic goes well on just about anything – I’ve used it on double bass, acoustic guitar and guitar amps, but it’s found a set place as a bottom snare mic. Sensitive enough to get a crisp rattle, but sturdy enough to handle the high SPL of drums. 

ATH-M50x and M70x: I use the M50 for tracking takes, where I want a workhorse that’s clear but forgiving. The M70s are my go-to for mixing, where I appreciate the sonic detail and natural response. 

ATH-E70: I use these in-ear monitors for tracking drums and other high-movement situations, and as an A-B on mixes against the M70x. They’re detailed but without the harsh highs that a lot of IEMs have, and still pack plenty of lows to boot. 

BP40: Shhh, don’t tell anyone, but I’ve been using this broadcast vocal mic on floor toms for an early-70s thump, it sounds great! 

AT4080: A ribbon mic that can handle loud sources is always handy – I’ve mostly been using mine on vibraphone, some of which will be heard on this season of LTAS.