Best Podcast Equipment for your Studio

Best Podcast Equipment

Creating a podcast essentially requires you to choose the “right” type of equipment to keep your audience engaged enough that they keep coming back. We started exploring the various digital recording and streaming gear a while back and we weren’t disappointed.

There are a lot of options and you can get a lot of equipment but that doesn’t really mean that you need to get them all for starting out, however, you can always expand the equipment you use for podcasting over time.

Before you start investing, it is important to know about the best equipment. Recording a podcast can be as simple as you wish or as complicated as you make it, but the results will vary greatly.

There are a number of podcasters nowadays and some of them are highly professional. The setup of these pro podcasters can be intimidating with all their expensive equipment and setup; however, you will be surprised to find out that most of podcasters don’t actually have a high-budget setup and it is much simpler than pros and consists of only the important stuff.

Before looking at the best, let’s take a look at the basic equipment required for podcasting.

Basic Podcast Equipment

When starting out, the following equipment is required for podcasting;

• PC / Mac
• One or more microphones
• One or more headphones
• Audio interface or mixer
• Recording software or digital audio workstation

Other additional equipment that one can spend on includes;

• Camera (only if you are recording video)
• Pop filter for microphones
• Mic arm/stand
• Shock mount
• Lighting

The most essential of these products is computer and microphone so we will start with these two. However, if there are multiple people recording, it is recommended to avoid using USB mics and opt for a mixer to connect multiple XLR microphones.

Best PC / Mac for Podcasting

Getting the right laptop or pc for podcasting is really important as it must be able to handle anything you put it through. Creating a podcast can make you open tons of tabs and programs at the same time and this means your system must be capable enough to handle the entire load.

An important factor is the CPU with fast single-core performance which will provide you much quicker performance. Some of the best options are 8^th generation Intel i7 processors and 7^th generation Intel i5 processors. We have listed here the best options of PC / Mac for podcasting.

ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 – Best Gaming PC for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 35.4 x 25.9 x 2.26 ~ 2.72 cm (13.94″ x 10.20″ x 0.89″ ~ 1.07″), WEIGHT: 2.30 Kg (5.07 lbs.), OPERATING SYSTEM: Windows 11 Pro, PROCESSOR: 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i9-12900H Processor 2.5 GHz (24M Cache, up to 5.0 GHz, 14 cores: 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores), DISPLAY: 15.6 inches, REFRESH RATE: 240Hz, RESPONSE TIME: 3ms

Although a gaming laptop, Asus ROG Strix Scar 15 is the best choice for podcasters due to its heavy operating system. It is packed with the latest Intel “Alder Lake” Core i9 processor as well as NVidia’s refreshed GeForce RTX 3000-series graphics.

ROG means Republic of Gamers and it is the gaming line of Asus. Such laptops are designed to handle performance intense tasks without any issues. The software programs used for recording podcasts are intense and thus having a graphic card can reduce the load on the CPU allowing it to perform its tasks without any trouble.

Distinctive Design

Strix Scar is a gaming laptop which means it is naturally heavier than normal ones. It comes with a gaming look having RGB effects on the front and sides as well as at the bottom edge of the screen. The keyboard also features RGB backlighting. It also comes with five dedicated macro keys.

Exceptional Performance

The best gaming PC for podcasting uses the NVIDIA RTX 2070 graphic card which is used by a number of software programs such as DAWs, allowing the CPU to run freely. It comes with a number of ports, saving you from buying external adaptors and connectors. It also features extra GPU power which is required when plugging in 2 or 3 external monitors.

It also comes with improved cooling, because no one wants the noise of fans in their podcasts. It features an Intel Core i7-8750H processor which is ideal for fast performance and comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM allowing you to store large files.

I purchased this laptop about 6 months ago for my podcasts and finally thought of writing a review about it. It is simply perfect. It feels nicely built and is strong. It has a powerful processor and the response time and usage experience definitely show that.

PROS

• Strong processor
• Excellent performance
• Quiet cooling fan
• Excellent battery life
• Dedicated macro keys

CONS

• Lacks webcam

Apple MacBook Pro – Best Mac for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 0.61 x 11.97 x 8.39 inches, WEIGHT: 3.0 pounds, CHIP: Apple M2 chip, CPU: 8-core, GPU: 10-core, DISPLAY: 13.3 inches / 16 inches, MEMORY: 8GB unified memory

Apple MacBook Pro comes in two different models, one of the 13 inches and the other is the 16 inches model. The 16 inch model also features a Touchbar. It comes with some excellent features that make it the ideal choice for podcasting.

Sleek Design

The best mac for podcasting features the sleek and slim design of Apple. It includes a notch at the top of the display which holds the 1080p webcam. The backlit keyboard comes in an all-black design and the function keys are full-size.

Processor & Features

This is the best MacBook for audio production. It comes with a 64 GB of RAM and a 2.6 GHz 6-core Intel i7 processor along with a 512GB solid-state hard drive. It comes with 4 USB-C ports. It has a battery life of up to 18 hours. Such a strong processor makes it a good option for recording audio and using the software.

When I started podcasting, I realized I had to change my laptop as it wasn’t simple enough. So I shifted to MacBook Pro and I have to admit, it works like magic. It is simple to use and can handle the heavy processing of podcasting.

PROS

• Powerful M1 Pro CPU
• Excellent audio performance
• Impressive battery life
• Single-Core performance

CONS

• Expensive

Best Microphone for Podcasting

After having the perfect computer, the second step is to get the right microphone. The number of microphones required depends on the number of hosts.

The two most common types of microphones used for podcasting are dynamic and condenser mics. When compared briefly, it is noticed that dynamic microphones are the better option. These mics come at an affordable price, don’t require external power, and are an ideal choice for loud environments. They are less sensitive and don’t capture as much noise. Whereas, when we talk about condenser mics, they are of higher quality but more sensitive and thus not the best option for noisy environments.

Another important factor to keep in mind while choosing the perfect microphone is the polar pattern. The polar pattern is the directionality from where your mic picks sound. The most suitable choice, in this case, is the cardioid microphones as they pick sound from the front and podcasters don’t really need to move around or capture external noises.

Lastly, it is important to know about the connection type of your microphone. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to use a USB microphone. USB microphones plug directly into the USB port of your power source. The other type is the XLR microphone. These microphones can’t be plugged in directly to your device, and require an additional power source like the audio interface. Their setup is more advanced as compared to the USB microphones.

After careful testing, we have concluded that the best microphones for podcasting include Shure MV7, Blue Yeti, Rode PodMic, and Blue Snowball.

Shure MV7 USB Microphone – Best Hybrid Microphone for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 4.3 x 12.3 x 5 inches, WEIGHT: 0.55 kg, DSP MODES (PRESETS): Near/Far, Dark/Natural/Bright, TRANSDUCER TYPE: Dynamic (moving coil), POLAR PATTERN: Unidirectional (Cardioid), OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: 314 Ω, FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 50 Hz to 16,000 Hz, ADJUSTABLE GAIN RANGE: 0 to +36 dB, HEADPHONE OUTPUT: 3.5 mm (1/8″), MOUNTING TYPE: 5/8-27 thread mount

Shure MV7 is the top-ranked microphone for podcasts. It comes with a number of excellent features. It is a hybrid type microphone meaning it has both USB and XLR connectivity options. This means it can be used by both beginners as well as pros.

Design and Build Quality

The best hybrid microphone is compact in size and is very strongly built. It comes in an all-black body. Like most other mics, it comes with a 5/8 inches screw mount so that it can mount onto stands and boom arms.

It features a touch panel along with an LED strip indicating the current gain levels. This touch panel uses a swipe control for controlling the gain and volume of the headphones. It also has some touch-sensitive buttons to mute and switch between mics and headset controls. This mic is also compatible with the ShurePlus MOTIV app.

Connectivity

As said earlier, this is a hybrid mic meaning that it offers both XLR and USB connectivity. At its bottom, you will find both XLR and micro-USB ports. Apart from this, you will also see a 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring the audio.

The difference between the two is that the USB connection is simple; however, the XLR connection requires an additional power source. The files from USB are low resolution whereas the ones from XLR have higher resolution.

It cannot only connect with PC and Mac, but it is also compatible with iOS and Android devices.

Outstanding Audio Quality

Shure MV7 features a single-carded pickup pattern, which is perfect for podcasters. You will have to use the ShurePlus MOTIV app to adjust various settings of the microphone. It also features an auto mode which is very suitable for beginners. The experience of using this mic is quite impressive. When placed correctly, the auto mode does everything for you from avoiding clipping to excelling at audio recording.

I tried this mic in both USB and XLR modes and I have to say I was greatly impressed. It provided excellent clarity and the audio was a lot superior to that produced by the laptop’s internal mic.

PROS

• Hybrid – USB and XLR support
• Wide compatibility
• Excellent audio clarity

CONS

• Expensive

Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone – Best Cardioid Microphone for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS (MM): 172 (L) x 109 (W) x 62 (H), WEIGHT (G): 937, ACOUSTIC PRINCIPLE: Dynamic, POLAR PATTERN: Cardioid, FREQUENCY RANGE: 20Hz ~ 20 kHz, OUTPUT CONNECTION: XLR, OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: 320Ω, SENSITIVITY: -57.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (1.60mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1 kHz

Rode PodMic features an XLR connection. The most impressive feature of this microphone is that it comes at a very affordable price. Due to its XLR connection, it can be categorized as a pro microphone. Without any further due, let’s take a look at its different features.

Simple Design

The best cardioid microphone for podcasting features a very elegant design. It is lightweight and comes in a normal size. At the back of the mic, you will find the XLR connection, and at the front; there is a built-in swivel mount. The front of the mic is covered with a metallic grill and houses a pop filter and a damping material.

Clear Audio

The Rode PodMic is an excellent microphone and a perfect choice for podcasters who wish to have an XLR mic. It produces excellent-quality audio which is quite accurate. It automatically adjusts to any change in EQ and the pop filter delivers excellent results.

It features a cardioid pattern which allows the mic to focus on the sound in front of it only and ignore the background noises.

I have tried and tested many mics, to mark my name in the world of podcasts and I can confidently say that this mic hasn’t disappointed me even once. The thing that attracted me the most to this mic was its price. I was surprised to see that it is an XLR mic and is available at the price of a USB mic. But this doesn’t mean that the audio quality was compromised and this is what pushed me to write this review. It produces excellent quality and clear audio and is simple to use.

PROS

• Clear audio
• Built-in damping and pop-filter
• Affordable
• Professional build quality

CONS

• Budget friendly3

Blue Snowball Ice – Best USB Microphone for Podcasting on a Budget

DIMENSIONS: 325mm (circumference), WEIGHT: 460g, TRANSDUCER TYPE: Condenser, Pressure Gradient with USB digital output, POLAR PATTERNS: Cardioid, FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 40 – 18 kHz, SAMPLE/WORD RATE: 44.1 kHz/16 bit, COMPATIBILITY: Windows 10 or higher USB 1.1/2.0/3.0 / macOS 10.14 or later USB 1.1/2.0/3.0

Blue Snowball Ice is the best choice for beginners as it not only uses a USB connection but also comes at a very affordable value. It comes from Blue which has proved its worth over and again in the world of audio equipment. This mic features a cardioid-only pattern.

Snowball Design

The best USB microphone for podcasting on a budget comes in a very appealing design. It features a round shape similar to that of a Snowball Ice. It has a plastic cover with a metallic grill on its front side and an LED indicator. This LED indicates a connection between the USB and the recording source.

Sound Quality

Blue Snowbell Ice doesn’t come with any sort of knobs to adjust the recording levels. It can be done by using your recording device only, which is expected from an XLR microphone. When you have set it properly, you will be able to record clear and crisp audio.

Another impressive feature of this mic is that it can pick up the sound even if it is delivered from a distance of about five to six inches which isn’t commonly found in cardioid microphones.

I bought this mic to have something better than my laptop’s internal mic but at an affordable value. The sound quality of this mic is really good and it is simple to use for beginners like me.

PROS

• Budget-friendly
• Pure signal
• Easy to use

CONS

• The mic stand needs improvement

Best Headphones for Podcasting

Headphones are essential equipment for podcasting as they allow you to monitor and adjust the sound quality while you are recording. A good pair of headphones limit the feedback and decreases noise leaks. One important factor to keep in mind is that everyone who is recording the podcast must be wearing their own pair of headphones. The most suitable type of headphones for this purpose are over-the-ear ones as they are more comfortable and provide accurate sound quality as compared to others. Let’s take a look at some of the best options available these days.

beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X – Best Headphones for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 6.65 x 3.94 x 7.68 inches, WEIGHT: 350g, TRANSDUCER TYPE: Dynamic, FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 5 – 40,000 Hz, NOMINAL IMPEDANCE: 48 Ω, AMBIENT NOISE ATTENUATION: 20 dB A, HEADBAND PRESSURE: 5.3 N

Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is the best choice for podcasting. Their most prominent feature is that they provide an extremely immersive audio experience. They aren’t wireless which is an advantage in this case as it provides minimum latency. They are designed as studio headphones.

Studio Headphones

The best headphones for podcasting have been designed in a way that they do minimum post-processing to the audio signals; this means you can hear it in its original format itself. They are lightweight and come with soft comfortable ear cups.

Exceptional Clarity

Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is an exceptional pair of headphones. It comes with a number of features including noise blocking, and exceptionally clear audio. The best thing about these headphones is that provide more of a natural experience rather than edited audio. They are a premium choice of over-ear headphones. All these features make them the ideal choice for podcast recording.

I was greatly impressed with these headphones. They feature excellent build quality and are quite comfortable to use. I wore them for long periods while recording my podcasts and they didn’t cause any fatigue to my ears. They are easy to use and provide a nice sound quality as well.

PRO

• Exceptional sound quality
• Comfortable fit
• Noise isolation

CONS

• Pricey

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones – Best Over-Ear Headphones for Podcasting

WEIGHT: Approx. 307g, TYPE: Closed-back dynamic, DRIVER DIAMETER: 45mm, FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 15 – 28,000 Hz, SENSITIVITY: 99 dB/Mw, IMPEDANCE: 38 ohms, BATTERY: DC 3.7V lithium polymer battery, BATTERY LIFE: Approx. 50 hours continuous use, CHARGING TIME: Approx. 3.5 hours, MICROPHONE TYPE: MEMS type, MICROPHONE SENSITIVITY: -38 dB (1V/Pa at 1 kHz), MICROPHONE FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 85 -15,000 Hz, MICROPHONE POLAR PATTERN: Omnidirectional

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 are wireless over-ear headphones that come with a number of exceptional features. These headphones come with a battery life of more than 60 hours. They feature a neutral and a Low Latency Mode.

Style

These headphones look like basic headphones but are jam-packed with exciting features. They come in an all-black design with silver circles on the ear cups. They are comfortable due to the nice padding on the ear cups. The ear cups also support a number of controls for power and volume controls. The headphones are foldable and can be packed in a pouch which makes them easy to carry around and store.

Sound Profile

The best over-ear headphones for podcasting come with a neutral sound profile. They are perfect for podcasters as they don’t boost the bass. They also have a decent frequency response consistency. They provide a run time of about 64 hours which is quite impressive as well. They can be charged using the provided USB-C cable.

I started recording podcasts a while ago so I am a beginner but I have used a number of headphones and would say without a doubt these are one of the best ones. The bass, midrange, and highs are well-balanced and the quality of sound is also quite impressive.

PROS

• Exceptional sound quality
• Fast pairing
• Equalizer
• Well build and comfortable

CONS

• Lacks noise isolation

Sennheiser Professional HD 280 Pro – Best Wired Headphones for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 9.64 x 7.36 x 3.3 inches, WEIGHT: 285G, WEARING STYLE: Headband, FREQUENCY RESPONSE (HEADPHONES): 8 – 25000 Hz, SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL: (SPL) 113 dB, THD, TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION: 0.1 %, CONTACT PRESSURE: 6 N, EAR COUPLING: circumaural, JACK PLUG: 3.5 / 6.3 mm stereo, CONNECTION CABLE: Coiled Cable (min. 1.3m / max. 3m), TRANSDUCER PRINCIPLE: dynamic, closed, NOMINAL IMPEDANCE: 64 Ω, LOAD RATING: 500 mW

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro comes with a durable build quality and a very excellent performance. They are a good choice for podcasters as they are simple to use and provide clear audio.

All-Black Aesthetic

The best-wired headphones for podcasting come in an all-black design and are a little bulkier than the other options presented here. The ear cups are nicely padded and provide a comfortable experience to the ears even for long usage. They are foldable and easy to store and carry. The headband is quite sturdy and won’t break off easily and the ear cups are made of plastic material.

Audio Quality

This is a professional pair of headphones that provide exceptional clarity of audio. It is a very nice choice for podcasters. It is a professional tool for recording, mixing, and mastering sound quality. The best feature of these headphones is that it doesn’t boost the sound profiles weirdly thus allowing you to hear the original audio clearly.

I was impressed with their strong passive noise isolation. They sound perfect without any audio leaks. However, I felt like the bass was a little more than required.

PROS

• No sound lacks
• Good price
• Comfortable
• Impressive sound quality

CONS

• Bulky

Best Audio Interface or Mixer

Audio Interface or Mixer isn’t required by everyone but most podcasters still use it. A mixer is an important requirement in case if you are using any of the following;

• An XLR mic.
• Multiple mics.
• For live recording

An audio interface can be defined as the link between your podcast microphone and the recorder. You can think of it as a device that translates analog signals into digital ones, which are understandable by the computer. Most users prefer using it because they opt for an XLR mic. rather than USB ones.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface – Best Audio Interface for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 1.93 x 6.93 x 4.29 inches, WEIGHT: 1.32 pounds

MICROPHONE INPUTS

FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1dB, DYNAMIC RANGE: 111dB (A-weighted), THD+N: <0.0012%, NOISE EIN: -128dBu (A-weighted), MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: 9dBu (at minimum gain), GAIN RANGE: 56dB, IMPEDANCE: 3kΩ

LINE INPUTS

FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1dB, DYNAMIC RANGE: 110.5dB (A-weighted), THD+N: <0.002%, MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: 22dBu (at minimum gain), GAIN RANGE: 56dB, IMPEDANCE: 60kΩ

INSTRUMENT INPUTS

FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1dB, DYNAMIC RANGE: 110dB (A-weighted), THD+N: <0.03%, MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: 12.5dBu (at minimum gain), GAIN RANGE: 56dB, IMPEDANCE: 1.5MΩ

LINE/MONITOR OUTPUTS

DYNAMIC RANGE (LINE OUTPUTS): 108dB, THD+N: <0.002%, MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: (0 dBFS) 15.5dBu, IMPEDANCE: 430Ω

HEADPHONE OUTPUTS

DYNAMIC RANGE: 104dB (A-weighted), THD+N: <0.002%, MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: 7dBu, IMPEDANCE: <1Ω

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is the selling audio interface due to its excellent features. It is a simple solution for your podcast recording that provides a connection between your computer using a USB-C cable and XLR mics. This audio interface provides low latency monitoring without complicating your setup.

Compact Design

The best audio interface for podcasting comes in the signature red design of Focusrite. The panel is all black and comes with a number of inputs and control dials as well as XLR inputs. These inputs can be used for mics or guitars.

On the right side, you will see the volume knob and a smaller knob to control the volume levels of the headphones.

You can connect it to your computer, by using the provided USB-C cable. The cable can be connected at the backside of the audio interface. It then transmits power to the interface and then transmits audio to your computer.

Recording Quality & Performance

The recording quality of this mixer is good. It has a max sampling rate of 192 kHz which provides excellent results. The ADC and DAC provide high-quality performances without any loss. It is also a perfect option for beginners as it is compact and offers two inputs that make it super easy to use.

It is a really great audio interface. The best feature of this audio interface is the USB 2.0 which isn’t found in many audio interfaces. The pre-amps are of good quality which I was expecting from Focusrite.

PROS

• Low-latency monitoring
• Easy to use
• Lower noise
• Improved Clarity

CONS

• Lightweight can be tossed off easily

Rode RODECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio – Best Mixer for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS (MM): 350 x 275 x 82, WEIGHT (G): 1980g, MIC INPUTS: 20 Hz – 20 kHz, -3dB at 20 Hz (high-pass filter), MONITOR OUTPUTS: 20 Hz – 20 kHz better than ±0.5dB, INPUT IMPEDANCE: 600Ω (Mic Preamplifiers), EQUIVALENT NOISE: –125dBA (A-Weighted, measured as per IEC651), MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: +3dBu (Monitor Outputs), MAX OUTPUT POWER AT 1% THD: 32Ω –> 220mW | 300Ω –> 31mW, DYNAMIC RANGE: 100 dBA (Mic Preamplifiers), GAIN RANGE: 0dB – 55dB (Mic Preamplifiers), POWER REQUIREMENTS: External DC power supply 12 – 15v DC, 1A, OUTPUT CONNECTION: USB-C, 1/4” Balanced TRS STEREO (Monitor Outputs), COMPUTER CONNECTIVITY: USB, Bit Depth 24-Bit, SAMPLE RATES: 48 kHz, OS REQUIREMENTS: macOS 10.11 Windows 10

Rode has described the RODECaster Pro as the world’s first fully-integrated podcast production studio. You can think of this system as a mixer as well as a digital recorder. It is a pretty unique and ideal product for podcasters.

RODECaster Pro Design

The first look of this device may look complicated for some users but is actually ideal. Let’s cut to the chase, it comes with 4 XLR mic inputs meaning this is an ideal choice for recordings with multiple hosts. It has a control panel, and some other options and presets and each of the mics can be set using these. It comes with customizable sound pads.

Performance

The best mixer for podcasting allows you to record multiple tracks on your computer or directly on the SD card. It comes with a number of options including a compressor, high-pass filter, de-esser, ducking, noise gate, aural exciter, and big bottom, and can be used without a computer as well. It provides minimum latency while transmitting audio.

I can’t seem to get enough of this product. I consider them the perfect device for podcasters. I have tried it with other brand mics. as well and it works just fine.

PROS

• Portable setup
• Durable design
• Spacious layout
• Easy to use

CONS

• Expensive

Best Recording Software or Digital Audio Workstation for Podcasting

Once you have gathered all the basic equipment required for podcasting, the next step is to record, but before that make sure to have the right type of recording software. It is known as a Digital Audio Workspace or DAW which captures the audio and then allows you to edit it to perfection. There are large numbers of options to choose from whether you are editing or recording your podcasts for both Mac and PC.

Some of the most famous DAWs include Adobe Audition which allows you to not only edit your recording but also to add intro music. You can also find free editing software programs such as Audacity, and GarageBand. There are also some options that provide both free and paid plans such as Riverside. FM. Let’s take a deeper look at these options.

Adobe Audition

Adobe Audition is paid editing software that provides a nice range of control over different types of edit. It is recommended for experienced users as it is a bit complicated.

Audacity

If you are a beginner and looking for something easy and free, this is the best option, however, it lacks some features but is still a good option for most users.

GarageBand

This is another free and ideal software for beginners. It allows you to move audio segments as per your wish by following some easy steps only.

Riverside. FM

Riverside. Fm is the ideal editing software for both beginners and pros. It allows both audio and video editing. It features both paid and free versions and allows you to choose between multiple subscription options fitting your budget.

Now let’s take a look at some of the additional accessories. These aren’t essentially additional; they are more of an upgrade. You don’t necessarily need them for recording podcasts at the beginner level but these will definitely enhance the quality of your podcast.

Best Camera for Podcasting (only if you are recording video)

Podcasts on YouTube are gaining more popularity than ever. Adding video to your podcasts scales their quality and attracts more listeners. Podcasters record their videos in two ways by either setting the camera in one stop or by placing multiple cameras. Using a single is recommended as it is easier for beginners. This keeps your listeners invested.

Panasonic Video Camera Camcorder HC-V770 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: Approx. 65 x 73 x 139 mm (2.559 x 2.874 x 5.472 inch), WEIGHT: Approx. 353g (0.778 lb.), IMAGE SENSOR: 1/2.3 type (1/2.3″) BSI MOS Sensor, TOTAL PIXELS: 12.76 megapixels, OPTICAL ZOOM: 20x, LCD MONITOR: 7.5cm (3″), NUMBER OF DOTS: 460,800 dots, WI-FI STANDARD: IEEE 802.11b/g/n, WI-FI FREQUENCY: 2.4GHz band

The Panasonic HC-V770 is a full HD small camcorder that is an excellent option for podcasters. It is an excellent alternative for novices and has many user-friendly features.

Well Built Camcorder

The best mirrorless camera for podcasting is small and low in weight. It has a number of settings and a microphone port that let you capture crystal-clear sounds. The Recording/Playback button, shoe adapter release lever, level shot function button, power button, Wi-Fi button, battery release level, USB terminal, A/V port, micro HDMI port, and microphone port may all be found when you expose the articulating LCD.

Key Features and Performance

The Panasonic HC-V770 has an HDR video feature and a 4-Drive lens system. Even in low-light situations, it enables you to shoot crisp pictures and record excellent details. You can record videos in up to 1080p HD at 30 frames per second. With all of these capabilities, this camera is the best option for live broadcasting.

I’ve used this camera in a variety of settings, and all I have to say about it is that it is absolutely great and capable of recording in a variety of lighting scenarios.

PROS

• Excellent video quality
• Lightweight
• 20x optical zooming feature
• HDR mode

CONS

• Lacks 4k video resolution

Sony A6000 Mirrorless Camera – Best 24.3 MP Sony Mirrorless Camera

DIMENSIONS: 120 x 66.9 x 45.1 mm, WEIGHT: 285 g (Body Only) / 344 g (With battery and media), LENS MOUNT: Sony E-mount lenses, SENSOR TYPE: APS-C, SENSOR: APS-C type (23.5 x 15.6mm), SENSOR NUMBER OF PIXELS (EFFECTIVE): 24.3 MP, SENSOR NUMBER OF PIXELS (TOTAL): Approx. 24.7 megapixels, ASPECT RATIO: 3:2, RECORDING FORMAT (MOVIE): AVCHD 2.0 / MP4, MULTI FRAME NR: Auto/ ISO 100 to 51200, VIEWFINDER TYPE: 0.39″-type electronic viewfinder (color), VIEWFINDER NUMBER OF DOTS: 1,440,000 dots, LCD MONITOR TYPE: 3.0″ wide type TFT LCD, TOTAL NUMBER OF DOTS: 921,600 dots, CLEAR IMAGE ZOOM: Approx. 2x, BATTERY LIFE (STILL IMAGES): Up to 360 shots

Another great mirrorless camera Sony offers is the A6000. Even if it isn’t the finest in its class, it still has some excellent features, such as a 24-megapixel sensor, and a quick autofocus mechanism. Since podcast videos don’t focus on audio quality more than video quality, you don’t really need a high-end camera.

Solid Design

A6000 is extremely small in size. It is compact and weighs less than half as much as a DSLR camera. At this price, the OLED EVF is quite functional. A 3-inch LCD screen that can be rotated up to 90 degrees is included with the camera. In addition, the camera incorporates a pop-up flash with a 20-foot illumination range.

The grip of the best 24.3MP Sony mirrorless camera is really solid. Although it is quite simple to hold and operate, it feels a little hefty on the front when used with large lenses.

Performance

Sony A6000 performance’s is quite impressive. The details of the pictures captured using this camera are quite impressive. The images are quite detailed in the low-mid sensitivity range. It comes with a 24 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Sony’s Bionz X processor. It also performs really well under low-light conditions. Another impressive feature of this camera was that its autofocus system was able to perform well even under low-light conditions.

Before deciding to purchase this camera, I had two goals in mind. I didn’t just go out and buy a camera. I was looking for a camera that would perform well and be inexpensive. The effectiveness of this camera makes up for its cost. It took me some time to figure out where the controls were, but once I did, this camera turned out to be a wise purchase.

PROS

• Fast autofocus
• Compact body
• Impressive low-light performance

CONS

• Lacks 4k video

Best Pop filters for Podcasting

Pop filters are used for reducing plosive sounds and are made from various types of materials like metal or nylon. It makes editing of the recordings easier and thus allows you to have better-sounding podcasts. This is one of the budget-friendly products that leave quite an impact on your recording.

It provides a much smoother sound. There are many different types of pop filters you can choose from including nylon mesh pop filters, metal mesh pop filters, and foam windscreens. Selecting the right type of filter highly depends on your preference.

Mounting a Pop Filter

A pop filter is easy to use. The first step is to choose the right type of pop filter for your requirements and we have listed here quite a few. The next is to attach it to your microphone stand. Most pop filters come with mounting clams. Now, adjust the pop filter by adjusting the gooseneck that connects the pop filter to the mounting clamp. Enjoy clear and smooth recording.

Nady MPF-6 – Best Microphone Pop Filter for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 14 x 7.8 x 0.5″, WEIGHT: 0.9 lb., GOOSENECK: 16″ (40.64 cm), DIAMETER: 6″ (15.24 cm) pop filter, MATERIAL: Nylon mesh

Nady MPF-6 is one of the most popular options for filters in the market. It can be found with or without the supporting arm at the same price.

Pop Filter Design

The gooseneck has a length of 16 inches. The diameter of the pop filter is about 6 inches. It is made of nylon mesh and can be easily mounted to your mic stand. It is a very budget-friendly yet excellent product to provide you with a clear and smooth sound.

Pop Filter Performance

The best microphone pop filter for podcasting comes with double mesh. This double mesh provides increased protection. The metal gooseneck and the clamp are extra durable. This thick gooseneck makes sure that the filter is held in place. It is an excellent filter that simply enhances the quality of your audio and avoids noise attracted by your mic.

I would simply say that it does what it is designed for quite perfectly. It removes the pop sound completely without affecting the volume of your voice.

PROS

• Works fine
• Budget-friendly

CONS

• Bulky

Best Mic Arm/Stand for Podcasting

A mic arm or stand is another optional piece of equipment to enhance the quality of your podcasts. It allows you to have a more stable recording. It holds the mic in place and helps in getting it close to the mouth. This is important as the alignment of the mouth has a considerable impact on the sound of your voice.

Rode PSA1 – Best Mic Arm for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 100mmH x 0.00mmW x 0.00mmD, WEIGHT: 1.74kg (3.84lbs), HORIZONTAL REACH: 820mm, VERTICAL REACH: 840mm

Rode is a well-known name in the world of audio equipment. Rode PSA1 comes with a strong desk clamp and has been designed for heavy mics. It allows you to reach quite a height which may not be possible with floor stands.

Flexible Design

The best mic arm for podcasting comes in a flexible yet vertically spacious design. It is simple and doesn’t take up much space on your desk. The ends and midpoints come with independent hinges that allow you to adjust the position without any issues. It also has knobs that can be used to lock and tighten the stand in your desired position.

Smooth Operation

The arm is quite smooth to use. It comes with internal spring damping which makes it super easy to move the stand while keeping the mic stable. It is a perfect companion for your podcast recording journey.

 

I have used a number of boom arms and stands and was never really satisfied with one. I am a podcaster with 2 other hosts and it can get quite messy to place three stands or boom arms. However, using this mic arm made it easier as it is compact and works great.

PROS

• Quite, flexible
• Internal spring design to avoid vibrations
• Compact and refined design

CONS

• Costly

Best Shock Mount for Podcasting

The shock mount is another important accessory to keep the mic in place and stable, allowing a smooth and clear podcast. It keeps the microphone steady and prevents unwanted noise in the recording when recording. We know that a sound that doesn’t travel through air has more impact as compared to the ones that use air as a medium for traveling. This means sounds such as tapping the desk or moving the boom arm will be effectively captured by the microphone. This can be a problem in creating a clear podcast. A shock mount is used to absorb all the vibrations and sounds.

Rode PSM1 Shock Mount – Best Shock Mount for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS: 122 (H) x 110 (W) x 155 (D) mm, WEIGHT: 390g, COMPATIBILITY: Podcaster, Procaster, PSA1, DS1

The Rode PSM1 Shock mount is one of the expensive shock mounts. It is a quality shock mount. It is a large shock mount with the ability to absorb shocks and bumps.

Refined Design

The best shock mount for podcasting comes in a very refined design. It has been specifically designed for microphones that are screwed onto the bottom port. Some such mics include the Rode Podcaster, Procaster, NT2-A, and more. It is also compatible with the Rode PSA1 microphone.

Usability

Rode PSM 1 is easy to use and can be easily mounted using a large nut that can be screwed to the rear of the microphone. It is properly supported. It is all metal and thus has a long life as well. It absorbs shocks quite effectively allowing for a smooth and stable recording.

Initially, I was a bit confused about whether I needed a shock mount or not. I read a number of blogs and saw a couple of videos to finally use one. Well, I would say it surely enhanced the quality of the audio of my podcasts allowing me to have a more impactful podcast that is much clearer than my previous recordings.

PROS

• Easy to use
• Durable
• Effective shock absorbing

CONS

• Costly

Best Lighting for Podcasting

As said earlier, adding visual content to your podcast will attract more viewers and listeners, as people prefer to have something to look at even when listening to an audio. Video may not be the highlight of your podcast but this doesn’t mean it has to be of poor quality. A good quality video with your podcast will surely add to your viewer’s list.

GVM RGB LED Video Lighting Kit – Best Lighting Kit for Podcasting

DIMENSIONS (MM): 260*268*48, WEIGHT: 1KG, , PRODUCT MATERIAL: Aluminum alloy, LAMP BEADS QUANTITY: 252, COLOR RENDERING INDEX: ≥97, COLOR TEMPERATURE: 3200K~5600K, HUE: RGB 0°~360°, SAT: 0%~100%, BRIGHTNESS: 5000lux/0.5m, 1500lux/1m, LIGHT ANGLE OF LAMP BEAD: 120°, POWER: 40W, VOLTAGE: AC:100-240V, POWER SUPPLY MODE: DC input & Battery, POWER SUPPLY: DC15V/3A, BATTERY CAPACITY: 7.4V-4400mAh * 2 (to be purchased separately)

GVM RGB LED video lighting kit is an expensive kit of lighting that has been specifically designed for recording videos. It comes with a number of things that all add up to excellent lighting for your videos.

GVM 800 RGB Lighting Kit

The best lighting kit for podcasting contains everything you need for creating the best video for your podcasts. It comes with a rugged carry case, RGB LED panels, light stands, power adapters, C7 mains leads, and diffuser panels.

Performance and Battery Life

It contains everything you need to start with lighting. It comes with excellent quality CCT LEDs which produce outstanding skin tones and provide accurate colors. It is built quite well.

The GVM 800 lighting kit features an excellent battery life which makes it superior to its counterparts.

PROS

• Well balanced color
• Excellent battery life
• Sony NPF batteries

CONS

• Lights stands are basic

Best Podcast Equipment-BUYING GUIDE

Choosing the right type of equipment for your podcast is a pretty tricky job. One must know the dos and don’ts before simply building their podcasting setup. An effective and reliable podcast setup must be made keeping in mind the following important factors.

Budget

The most important factor that comes into action here is your budget. We have made a list of the essential and additional equipment so that you know what are the necessities and what are the things that are used for enhancing the quality of podcasts. In this way, you can spend your money wisely.

Individual or Equipment Package

You can find a lot of packages and bundles in the market for podcasting. If you are on a tight budget and don’t wish to go through the hustle of selecting each product individually, you can simply opt for podcast equipment packages that are budget-friendly and easy to use. However, for pros, this isn’t recommended, as it is better to have a customized setup according to your setup rather than selecting a pre-made one.

Audio Quality

This is the most obvious factor. Whether you are selecting a mic, shock mount, audio interface, headphones and so on, it must be kept in mind that they deliver and record high-quality audio. They must have some sort of noise canceling or blocking features with the ability to focus on your voice only.

Cardioid Polar Pattern Microphones

A podcast is all about your voice and the microphone is the key to it. It is important to keep in mind that the polar pattern of your selected mic should be cardioid so that it focuses on your voice only rather than external or background noises.

Best Podcast Equipment-FAQs

What equipment will I need for a podcast?

To produce audio for listeners to enjoy, podcasters only need a computer, microphone, headphones, and recording software.

Which microphone does Joe Rogan use?

The Shure SM7B, the industry standard for podcasters and video producers, is the microphone Joe Rogan uses. Some of the highest-quality microphones available to consumers are produced by the Australian company Shure.

Do podcasts make money?

The most typical source of income for podcasters is sponsorships. In this case, the sponsor is advertised on air. All episodes of your favorite shows certainly contains a few advertisements. The number of downloads your episodes receive determines how much money you will receive from a sponsor.

How much does it cost to start a podcast?

The good news is that it doesn’t cost much to start a simple podcast; if you already own a computer, you should be able to do so for less than $200. A basic podcast in the style of a monologue doesn’t require much in the way of technical setup.

How long should podcasts be?

The content, industry, and genre of your podcast will all influence its length. It might be just the right length for your listeners—between 15 and 20 minutes. However, if your target audience wants more in-depth, exploratory material, 45–90 minutes might be more beneficial.

How Many mics do I need for a podcast?

You need each need an XLR microphone for a two or more-person podcast, and studio headphones are strongly advised. You’ll need a USB audio interface or mixer with at least as many XLR microphone inputs as you have hosts because it’s difficult to record sounds from more than one USB microphone into a single computer.

Is a mixer necessary for the podcast?

For your podcast, you will definitely need some type of audio interface (unless you use a USB microphone). However, you can record your podcast without an audio mixer.

Why do people wear headphones during podcasts?

Your mic skills will be improved by wearing headphones. Wearing headphones will assist you to modify how you’re currently using the microphone if you can hear that you’re off-mic, too loud, or that you pop every time you utter a word beginning with a harsh consonant (‘p’, ‘b’, or ‘k’).

Is Adobe Audition good for podcasts?

For audio recording and mixing, podcasting, and sound effect creation, Adobe Audition is a potent tool.

Can you make a living off a podcast?

Naturally, they do! Big names are receiving a lot of listeners as well as a lot of ad cash. According to Advertise Cast, the average CPM (cost per 1K listeners) for 30 seconds is $18 and for 60 seconds it is $25.

Best Podcast Equipment-CONCLUSION

Creating an impact by your podcasts can be a tricky job as the competition in this field is increasing every day. The first important thing to do is to select the right type of equipment.

Most of the users focus on spending more on the microphone and getting it right. However, you can get a normally priced microphone and combine it with proper equipment to get the best out of the setup.

You can also opt for packages but packages aren’t recommended if you are serious about podcasting. Selecting the best things for your package can be tricky but this article is aimed at helping you in choosing the best podcast equipment.

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