More than at any other time in history, it is now simpler than ever to launch a podcast. But reading about all the gear, you purportedly need for podcasts might still make you feel overly overwhelmed.
Do not be deceived; if you already have a computer, you already have the majority of what you require, and you can simply get everything else for the initial setup for less than $100.
The most crucial thing to understand is that your content will have a significant impact on your podcast’s success.
Therefore, before spending a lot of money on equipment, just start your podcast and watch how it performs before making any necessary changes to the structure, pacing, and other content features. After you have your act together, consider the equipment.
A podcast is the only thing a podcaster needs. Try recording on your laptop or phone, making a quick edit in Descript, and publishing before you start spending money on this.
However, this is where you should begin if you’re ready to step up your game or just want to buy some items.
1. Headphones
Start with headphones if you’re going to start investing in equipment. High-quality studio headphones isolate sound and give you a clear understanding of what you’re creating, whether you’re recording or editing.
Studio headphones with a closed back and a cable provide the best sound isolation. Both wireless and noise-cancelling headphones are not the best options for listening to your recording.
Since wireless headphones employ Bluetooth, which compresses audio frequencies, and noise-cancelling headphones add additional frequencies to the mix to block out your surroundings.
2. Mic
Any professional podcast setup needs a top-notch microphone as its focal point. The ease of a USB microphone, which connects directly to your computer without needing an audio adapter, appeals to many aspiring podcasters.
Consider upgrading to an XLR microphone for better sound. XLR microphones have three-prong connectors, which are a little more expensive but generate a balanced audio signal with little noise or electrical interference. Since the audio quality is of utmost importance, only go for trusted lapel mics for podcast.
3. Mic Stand
Your mic stand is almost as vital as the microphone it holds when you are a podcast host. A sturdy mic stand shields your priceless microphone from harm while also reducing background noise brought on by hand and table motions.
Consider adding a pop filter, a thin membrane placed in front of the, to stop plosives (like the letter “p”) from exploding onto the mic, and a shock mount, stabilising a big condenser microphone by the suspension.
4. Digital Recording Interface
You don’t need a digital recording interface if you’re using a USB microphone that plugs directly into your computer. However, you’ll need a digital interface or mixer that transforms analogue audio impulses into digital signals your computer can interpret if you’ve upgraded to an XLR microphone. The Focusrite Scarlett and the Mackie Onyx Blackjack are two well-liked choices.
5. A Computer or Digital Recorder
You can utilise a separate digital recorder like the Zoom H6 Pro, which has two XLR microphone inputs in addition to its own built-in mics if you like. Some people choose to record on tablets or even smartphones. However, these devices lack some of the capabilities of computers.
6. Digital Recording and Editing Software
You will require software if you decide to record your podcasts on a computer, and you will need editing software regardless of how you record. There are other excellent free software solutions available, such as Descript and Audacity, of course.
Since everything you record is automatically transcribed by Descript, altering audio files is as simple as editing a word document. This is why it is preferred over other recording programmes. Popular all-purpose tools for paid software that can handle both podcast recordings and multi-track music recordings are Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro.
Final Words
The majority or all of the items listed above should be included in a podcast recording kit. However, their prices vary widely. Therefore, it is important to do some research and see which products fit your budget and suit your level of experience in this stream.
