Best Beginning Gear for Podcasting

If you're looking to start your own podcast, it's important to have the right gear to ensure your audio quality is top-notch. Fortunately, you don't need to spend a fortune to get started. With a few essential items, you can produce high-quality audio without breaking the bank. In this blog, we'll take a look at some of the best beginning gear for podcasting.

1. Microphone

The most important piece of equipment for any podcaster is a good microphone. A high-quality microphone can make all the difference in the quality of your audio. There are two main types of microphones: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are typically more affordable and better suited for recording in noisy environments, while condenser microphones are more sensitive and capture more detail, making them a good choice for recording in quiet environments. One of the best microphones for beginner podcasters is the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB. This dynamic microphone is perfect for recording in a noisy environment and has a USB port, which makes it easy to connect directly to your computer without the need for an audio interface. It's a versatile and affordable microphone that produces high-quality audio.

Another great microphone for podcasting is the Samson Q2U. This dynamic microphone also has a USB port, making it easy to connect to your computer. It also comes with an XLR cable, so you can connect it to an audio interface if you prefer. The Samson Q2U is a versatile microphone that produces clear and detailed audio.Then there is the legendary Shure SMB7 which has been the secret weapon for broadcasters for years.  While these are still affordable at around $400, our good friend DSL Shooter has created an amazing DIY kit. For just $50 you can achieve the same quality of sound as an SMB7 and also learn the mechanics of what makes it such a popular mic!

 

2. Headphones

A good pair of headphones is essential for monitoring your audio while recording. It allows you to hear your audio in real-time and make adjustments as necessary. You don't need to spend a lot of money on headphones, but it’s important to get a pair that is comfortable and provides good sound quality.One of the best headphones for podcasting is the Sony MDR-7506. These headphones have been around for a long time and are a favorite among audio professionals. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods, provide excellent sound quality, and are affordable. Another great option is the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x. These headphones are also comfortable to wear, provide excellent sound quality, and are affordable. They also have a detachable cable, which makes them easy to replace if they get damaged.

3. Pop Filter

A pop filter is a small device that is placed between the microphone and the speaker's mouth to prevent the popping sound that occurs when speaking words that begin with "P" or "B." These sounds can be distracting and reduce the overall quality of your audio.One of the best pop filters for podcasting is the Neewer Professional Microphone Pop Filter. It's affordable, easy to install, and can be adjusted to fit different types of microphones. It also helps to reduce sibilance, which is another common issue in podcasting.Another great pop filter is the Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter. It's a double-layered pop filter that provides superior protection against popping sounds. It's also flexible, which makes it easy to adjust to different microphone positions.

4. Mic Stand

A microphone stand is an essential piece of equipment that holds your microphone in place while you’re recording. It allows you to adjust the position of the microphone to get the best sound quality. There are two types of mic stands: desktop and boom.One of the best desktop mic stands for podcasting is the On-Stage DS7200B. It's a compact and affordable stand that is perfect for holding a microphone on a desk or table. It's adjustable and has a weighted base, which helps to keep it stable during recording. If you prefer a boom stand, the Rode PSA1 Swivel is a fantastic option.