Podcast Equipment to Get Started

Anytime you deal with technology that is ever changing, it can seem like a nightmare to know what is right to buy and what is easiest to use. Choosing the best Podcast equipment can seem daunting when you are just starting out. To not feel overwhelmed, it’s best to start basic and get comfortable with what you are doing, and then start to build on to your equipment as you get comfortable and start seeing some success from it.

Now starting a Podcast shouldn’t be difficult, but there are different ways to get the same results. We are going to take a look at different equipment that you can use and we’ll discuss what you need as opposed to what you can purchase. So let’s dive in and look at what might have now to help you get started, and what you can purchase as you build your way up.

If you are not sure if starting a Podcast is right for you, then check out our blog on 4 of the Best Reasons to Start a Podcast.

Here is a breakdown on some of the the more affordable podcast equipment to get you started

Starter pack:

We believe the quickest and easiest way to start a Podcast would be to use your phone. That’s right! Most smart phones have an audio recording feature on them, and there are some apps you can download as well to record audio if you want a different option. Also, some microphones you buy come with download codes for their own specific app. You would record on your smartphone and export the audio to a program to edit and clean up your Podcast. Let’s look at what you would need.

If you record on to your smartphone, think of using a lavalier microphone for a little better quality. I’ve had good luck with using the:

IK Multimedia iRig Mic Lav compact lavalier microphone for smartphones and tablets
You may need an attachment for your iPhone though : Lighting Adapter

Programs (both are free):
Mac use Garage Band
PC download Audacity

If you rather use one of those programs but use an actual microphone, try getting one of these:

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming

Level Up Starter Pack:

If you are looking to kick it up a notch from the starter pack, or if you need to record two people at once, you’ll want to look into an audio interface and some headphones. What are the benefits of this?

Headphones:

Listening to yourself through headphones may sound strange at first, but they can actually help you prevent mistakes. By listening to yourself you can make sure you sound clear, there is no interference like a buzzing sound, and make sure your levels are correct.

Your earbuds may not cut it. You’ll want to pick up a pair of closed back headphones. These will help cut out background noise your microphone might pick up.

I would recommend the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x as they are afforable if you are on a budget.

Audio Interface:

The last thing you would need to record to people at once is an audio interface. Basically, an audio interface takes the analog signal from your mic and converts it to digital for your computer to process. It’s the bridge between your mic and the computer.

My favorite to use that I also use for basic music recording, is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. This is a quality interface, easy to setup and affordable.