When you're setting audio levels for your podcast, you want to find the best blend of music and voice, assuring one doesn't overpower the other. Both tracks should work together and not struggle for dominance. Always listen to that podcast before uploading to the Internet -- review, review, review, and find that balance.

To avoid music that is either too soft or too loud, keep the following points in mind as you apply the bed music:

• Experiment with levels for the music before you record voice. Watch your VU meter and set your music between -11 to 16dB, depending on the music or sound effects you are using.
• When you're comfortable with the bed's level, lay down a voice track and see how your project's overall levels look (as well as sound) on your VU meter. Remember, your aim is to keep your voice in the "0" or red area without overmodulating. With the music bed now behind your voice, it's much easier to hit the red without effort.
• Avoid "uneven" music, or music that suddenly dips low and then has moments of sudden intensity. The best music-bed-friendly loops have an even sound (whether driving and dramatic or laid-back and relaxed) and an even level.
• Experiment with putting your music at the beginning and at the ending of your podcast instead of throughout. In these cases, music beds announce upcoming breaks and pauses in your podcast.