OT: Podcasts 101

I just learned how to make a Podcast (using GarageBand on a MacBook Pro)
and have several related questions. So far, I've only created simple
voice recordings - no background music or special effects - saved as MP3's.

1) Static - So far, my podcasts sound OK except for the background
noise. If anyone on this list has made podcasts using GarageBand, can
you tell me how you deal with this problem?

I've been told that the background static is caused by my computer's
internal fans, and the solution is to get an external microphone. But a
salesman in a local store told me that would only be a partial fix. He
advised me to use a feature called ducking. I did a little research on
microphones but got confused. I found several forums where people
suggested getting a mike AND a preamp, or other special equipment. What
do you use?

2) Why download? I uploaded a podcast, visited the URL, and it worked
just fine. So why do so many websites invite people to download
podcasts, rather than play them online? Is it just a strategy to save on
bandwidth usage?

3) How do I create a download link?

4) Do I need to know anything about the software visitors to my websites
might use to listen to the podcast? I assume most computers simply
recognize a default MP3 player, right?

Thanks.

--
David Blomstrom: Pol-IT-ics Expert
http://www.geobop.org/ | http://www.invisible-republic.org/
http://www.billysoft.org/ (Microsoft)
http://www.freedomware.us/Topics/Mac_vs_PC/