Podcast Equipment For Dummies

I get asked all the time about podcast equipment. “Which microphone do I get? Do I need headphones? How do I look “professional”?

We have a “Recommended Podcast Equipment & Software” one-pager that we send to clients when we start working on a podcast together.

I’ve decided to make this list public. Over the next three Sunday’s, I’ll be sharing the following:

• Recommended Podcast Equipment (today, 4/13)

• Recommended Podcast Software (next Sunday, 4/20)

• Recommended Podcast Project Management Tips (Sunday, 4/27)

Because it’s time to get that podcast (finally) off the ground. And if you’re going to do it, I suggest doing it right.

DUAL OUTPUT (XLR & USB) MICROPHONE

A mic with dual XLR and USB outputs allows you to connect directly to your laptop (via USB) OR an audio interface (via XLR output) like a digital recorder (more on that below) or an external camera.

• BUDGET: Samson Q2U ($70)

• SAFE: RØDE PodMic ($195)

• SPLURGE: Shure MV7+ ($279)

POP FILTERS

A pop filter prevents distracting plosive sounds (like "p" and "b"), and improves overall audio quality for a more professional sound. They’re not expensive, just grab one and keep around.

• BUDGET: Mic Pop Filter ($19)

• SAFE: On-Stage ASFSS6-GB ($25)

• SPLURGE: Avantone Pro PS-1 ($39)

HEADPHONES

Look, do you NEED headphones for your podcast? No. Can you just use your airpods? Yes. But I recommend having a special set for your pod. When I throw on my podcast headphones, I’m LOCKED. IN. I just feel more focused. I don’t know - I just recommend them. But up to you. I didn’t sell this section well at all, did I?

• BUDGET: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x ($49)

• SAFE: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ($149)

• SPLURGE: Bose Quiet-Comfort ($349)

DIGITAL RECORDER

If you plan to record an episode with another person in the same room, you’ll need to run everyone’s microphone to a central source (like a video camera or laptop). This way, the audio from the mic will sync and it’ll be super easy to edit in post.

• Zoom PodTrak P4 ($150)

• TASCAM FR-AV2 ($399)

CORDS & CABLES (XLR, USBS, ETC.)

This depends on the equipment you buy, so pay close attention to what your mic accepts as well as what your receiver/recorder accepts. Confused? Shoot me an email ([email protected]) and I’ll help you.

• USB C to USB C ($10; 2-pack)

• XLR Cable Matters Male to Female ($18; 2-pack)

That’s it. That’s the list of recommended podcast equipment. This will get you going.

While your new gear is on the way, I’m going to spend the week putting together Part 2 of this series - Recommended Podcast Software.

More from me next Sunday ✌️