Equipment Needed When Starting Podcast

1. Microphones

Each host will require a microphone while starting a podcast. There are two types of

microphones: dynamic and condenser. Condenser mics often generate higher-quality sound, but because they are more sensitive, they are not the best choice if shooting in a noisy setting.

Because they are less sensitive and will not pick up as much noise, dynamic microphones are cheaper, do not require external power, and work better in noisy areas (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022). Consider your microphone's polar pattern, commonly known as its directionality.

Your microphone will pick up sound at this point. Cardioid microphones,

frequently used for podcasts, gather sound from the front. We go into more detail on this in our podcast microphone guide. One should also consider the wires that link your microphone (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022). A USB microphone might be more straightforward for novices to use.

USB microphones are easy to set up because they connect straight to your computer or any other power source with a USB input. XLR microphones need an external power supply, like an audio interface. Although they call for a more complex setup, you can regulate the recording process more and add more microphones without using many USB ports on your computer.

The following are a few of the top podcast microphone choices you can explore:

a) Pyle PDMICR42SL Classic Retro Microphone ($) 

This dynamic Pyle Classic Retro microphone boasts a built-in pop filter to lessen popping

sounds and a cardioid polar pattern (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022). It stands out

from other mics in its price range thanks to its distinctive, vintage appearance. An XLR

connector is employed.

b) ATR2100-USB

A cardioid dynamic portable microphone with an XLR and USB output, the ATR2100-

USB. You may use this microphone without recording software because it plugs directly into your computer.

c) Condenser microphone MXL 990 ($)

Professional sound quality may be produced by the MXL 990 for both digital and

analogue recordings. The output on this mic is an XLR. As a bonus, a shock mount is included in

the pricing.

d) Blue Yeti USB Mic ($$) 

Blue Yeti is known for producing high-quality goods that are inexpensive and simple to

use. The same may be said about this microphone, which some podcasters adore. Although it has polar patterns that can be adjusted, it is relatively sensitive and is not the best choice for a noisy setting (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022).

e) Shure MV7 ($$$)

The Shure MV7 microphone is suitable for all levels of podcasters. It offers automatic

functions that help decrease undesirable background noise when recording and both a USB and an XLR output.

f) Heil Sound PR 40 Dynamic Cardioid Studio Microphone ($$$)

If you want to improve your gear, think about the Heil PR 40. Despite being somewhat

expensive, this chic microphone has a microphone arm and a shock mount.

2. Headphones

With this crucial gear, you can check and fine-tune the sound quality while recording a

podcast. They will be helpful to you while you modify your podcast. Any budget can obtain

excellent podcast headphones. Some examples of headphones include;

a) Shure SRH440

The Shure SRH440 headphones, another affordable choice, have received positive

reviews and are designed to function with various professional audio equipment.

b) DT 770 PRO by Beyerdynamic

These Beyer dynamic headphones should be at the top of your list if one wants comfort.

These adaptable headphones can be used with a studio, mobile, and other audio equipment.

c) Atherosnics ATH-M50x

Similar to the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x of the same series are the Audio-Technica

ATH-M50x headphones. However, the M50x headphones feature a more comprehensive

frequency range and a wireless option (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022).

3. Audio Interphase

One may quickly connect their equipment to their computer using an audio interface. The

recordings are converted into a digital format readable by one's computer (Hamer, 2022). This is crucial if you want different tracks while recording with multiple speakers or XLR microphones. Although it's not required, especially if youre using a USB mic, it can simplify the recording process.

Midiplus Smartface II Audio Interface is one type of audio interface (Hamer, 2022). The

Midiplus audio interface will give newcomers the fundamental functionality required for podcast setup and is compatible with most computer operating systems. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle serves as the second illustration of this interface. Despite being somewhat expensive, this Focusrite package offers excellent value given the variety of accessories you receive in addition to the audio interface.

4. Mixers

These are unnecessary for a simple podcast setup, but you may employ a mixer if your

program features numerous hosts or guests. Mixers are also helpful if you want to record several audio genres. Consider a mixer's channel capacity, whether it has preamps, and how well it works with other devices before making your decision. Behringer Xenyx 802 and Rode RODECaster Pro are two examples of mixers (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022).

This mixer is an attractive entry-level option for beginner podcasters on a tight budget. Eight inputs with noise-canceling features and two mic preamps are offered by the Behringer Xenyx 802. ZEDi-10 by Allen & Heath ($) There are several high-quality mixers from Allen & Heath and this mid-range model provides capabilities that make it possible to locate and get rid of low-frequency noise. With four USB inputs and four USB outputs, this Alien and Heath model is a wonderful choice if you frequently use USB devices. The Rode RODECaster Pro has exceptional capabilities and was created specifically for podcasters. To avoid paying for things an individual will not use, be sure you have a use for everyone.

5. Video Cameras

A person's podcast visual component keeps viewers interested and enables one to provide a variety of engaging content. Regarding podcast cameras, there are countless options available; the more money spent, the higher the quality. Sony HDR-CX405/B and Panasonic HC-V770 Camcorder are two excellent instances of video cameras to use. The Sony HDR- CX405/B camera is best for podcasters who are just starting or have some expertise (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022).

The record time of this camera, which enables you to record continuously for hours, is one of its outstanding characteristics. Because it includes WiFi capabilities, the Panasonic HC-V770 is an excellent camera for podcasters wishing to live broadcast. Though it costs a little more than other entry-level podcast cameras.

6. Pop Filter

Pop filters are not a necessary component of the equipment used to record podcasts.

However, they do contribute to a much smoother sound overall. To lessen plosive sounds, pop filters create a barrier between you and the microphone. Fortunately, pop filters are reasonably priced. For example, you can try the Nady MPF-6 and Shure PS-6 Popper Stoppers. The Shure PS-6 is a versatile pop filter because it is adjustable and works with most stands.

It is simple to clip onto your mic stand because it features a gooseneck mount with a clamp. The Nady MPF-6 is a reasonably priced pop filter with a swivel mount for straightforward positioning and adjustment (Best podcast equipment for any Budget, 2022). Any stand with a diameter of up to 1 inch can be used with its gooseneck clamp.

References

Best podcast equipment for any Budget (2022). RSS. Available at:

https://riverside.fm/blog/podcast-equipment (Accessed: December 24, 2022).

Hamer, A. (2022). What is the best audio interface for recording a podcast, Descript. Descript.

Available at: https://www.descript.com/blog/article/what-is-the-best-audio-interface-for-

recording-a-podcast (Accessed: December 24, 2022).