Podcasting Equipment: What You Need to Get Started
Launching a podcast is easier than ever, but having the right equipment can make all the difference in whether people actually listen or drop off. Investing in high-quality gear ensures clear audio, professional production, and an engaging listener experience. In this guide, I’ll cover the essential equipment you need to get started, from microphones to editing software.
Microphones: The Heart of Your Podcast
The right microphone is crucial for achieving clear, professional-sounding audio. While many beginner podcasters might be tempted by popular low-cost microphones, not all of them deliver the best quality. Here are some top recommendations:
Best Budget & Beginner Microphone:
Samson Q2U – A favorite among new and experienced podcasters alike, this dynamic microphone offers both USB and XLR (this means that the microphone goes through an external processor before going to your computer/recording platform) connectivity, making it versatile for different setups. It delivers excellent sound quality with minimal background noise, perfect for most any recording environments.
Best Mid-Range Microphones:
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB – Another excellent dynamic mic with USB/XLR options, offering rich and clear audio.
Rode PodMic – A great XLR-only option for those using an audio interface or mixer. It provides broadcast-quality sound at a reasonable price.
Best High-End Microphones:
Shure SM7B – A professional-grade dynamic microphone used by top podcasters. It requires an audio interface and a preamp like the Cloudlifter CL-1 but delivers unmatched vocal clarity.
Electro-Voice RE20 – A staple in broadcast and podcast studios, this mic is known for its smooth, natural sound and excellent off-axis rejection.
Headphones & Earbuds: Monitoring Your Audio
Having a good pair of headphones is essential to monitor your recordings in real time and catch any issues like background noise or distortion. Headphone or earbuds are really important so that you don’t get feedback or an echo from your computer speakers. They might not look pretty (especially when you’re recording video). But they can make a significant different in the quality of the recording. Here are some solid choices:
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x – These over-ear headphones provide excellent sound isolation and clarity, making them ideal for recording and editing.
Sony MDR-7506 – A trusted industry standard, these lightweight headphones offer accurate sound reproduction for precise editing.
Shure SE215 Earbuds – If you prefer earbuds, these offer professional-grade sound isolation and are great for recording on the go.
Apple AirPods — The absolute simplest way to get started is to use AirPods (or Beats or whatever brand) that you already own. Just remember NOT to use these for recording sound. The sound quality you get from Bluetooth headsets is terrible. You can certainly use old-school wired Apple Earbuds. Again, don’t record sound through them. Though the recording sound through wired earbuds is much better than recording through Bluetooth.
Editing Software: Polish Your Podcast Like a Pro
Once you’ve recorded your podcast, you’ll need reliable editing software to refine the audio, remove background noise, and add music or sound effects. Here are some top choices:
Descript – A game-changer for podcasters, Descript allows you to edit audio by editing text. It includes powerful AI tools, multitrack editing, and even video editing features.
Adobe Audition – A professional-grade editing tool with advanced features for fine-tuning your audio.
Adobe Premiere Pro — When you’re going to share video of your podcast, this professional-grade software is an excellent choice. It creates a transcript. You can export audio-only, in addition to video. And you fine tune audio and video with absolute precision.
Software for Creating Video Clips
With video podcasts and social media clips becoming increasingly popular, having the right software to create engaging visuals is a must. Here are some recommendations:
Descript – In addition to audio editing, Descript lets you create video clips with captions, making it ideal for sharing snippets of your podcast on social media.
Adobe Premiere Pro – A top-tier video editing tool used by professionals, perfect for producing high-quality podcast videos.
Canva – While not a traditional video editor, Canva allows you to create visually engaging audiograms with waveforms and captions for quick social media posts.
Final Thoughts
Investing in quality podcasting equipment doesn’t have to break the bank, but choosing the right tools will elevate your audio quality and overall production value. A solid microphone like the Samson Q2U, reliable headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and easy-to-use editing software like Descript can set you on the path to podcasting success.
Ready to start your podcast? With the right gear and a little creativity, you’re well on your way to producing a show that sounds as good as the pros!
Podcat Creative Consulting can help you create a strategic, brand-aligned podcast that boosts your brand, your thought leadership, and your bottom line.
