What is one piece of equipment needed to start a podcast?
To help you determine what equipment is needed to start a podcast, we asked experienced podcast hosts and content creators this question for their best advice. From buying a quality camera to using acoustic panels, there are several equipment recommendations that may help you create your own podcast in the future.
Here are nine pieces of equipment necessary to start a podcast:
- A Quality Camera
- Desk-Mounted Microphone Stands
- An Audio Interface
- High-Quality Headphones
- A Pop Filter
- Commitment: Trust the Longevity of the Process
- An External Microphone
- Audacity Software
- Acoustic Panels
A Quality Camera
If you hadn’t noticed, a lot of the major podcasting shows like Joe Rogan film the majority of their podcasts and upload them online along with their audio only posts. If it is within your budget, you can utilize a quality camera to record your conversations and share them to YouTube, which can extend your reach and provide multiple sources of revenue as well. If you have any highlights you can also upload them to social media sites like TikTok, which has made some up and coming podcasts explode in viewership.
Brandon Brown, Grin
Desk-Mounted Microphone Stands
Having a stellar microphone is a no-brainer but to really make the most of it you need a mic stand that’s easily adjustable and doesn’t clutter up your workplace. A desk-mounted mic stand is an ideal option since it effortlessly clamps onto your desk and is flexible enough to pull and push backward, making podcasting an absolute breeze.
Harry Morton, Lower Street
An Audio Interface
Sound quality is not something you want to compromise on when recording podcasts, which is why an audio interface or mixer should be an integral part of your audio setup. With the help of this device, you can effortlessly edit your podcast and add high-quality EQ effects to elevate the entire experience, without spending too much time on your dedicated software.
Demi Yilmaz, Colonist.io
High-Quality Headphones
Headphones are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any podcaster. In order to get a good sound, you need to be able to hear yourself and your guests clearly. You’ll also want headphones that have a good sound quality so you can listen to your recordings before publishing them. Some popular brands include Sony, Beats by Dre, and Bose.
Claire Westbrook, LSAT Prep Hero
A Pop Filter
A podcast is all about making your listeners concentrate on what you have to say, not on certain vocal sounds that dominate others. For example, when it comes to the English language, the P’s and T’s force you to let out those explosive blasts of air that may distract the listener. This is where a good pop filter comes in handy, absorbing these overhead sounds and more so that your voice plays out more evenly. Now, your listeners will be able to pay rapt attention to what you’re saying without jarring sounds diverting their attention.
Eva Taylor, WP Buffs
Commitment: Trust the Longevity of the Process
Before you side-eye the author for including this element in the article, know that equipment is defined as “the necessary items for a particular purpose; mental resources.” While I can add to the essential tools list, I want to focus on the person behind the podcast idea, you. Prior to starting any new endeavor, you want to assess your level of commitment. This is twofold, as there is the commitment to the process of learning and growing the podcast, and the commitment to showing up for your audience consistently.
This bit of wisdom comes from a person who had a vision to create transformative impact through her podcast, but she did not plan for the level of consistency that was required to sustain the podcast. Before you announce your show, be sure that you (1) decide that you are committed to the process while understanding life happens, (2) batch your content in advance while leaving room for unexpected trends, and (3) have fun as you learn to trust the longevity of your process.
A. Margot Blair, AMB Consulting & Co.
An External Microphone
A lot of people overcomplicate the process of starting a process. From an equipment standpoint, the only thing you really need is a good external microphone that hooks up to your computer. My personal recommendation for people starting out is the Audio-Technica ATR-2100. It plugs directly into your computer with a USB cord and has great sound quality. That was the mic I used for the first three years. I only upgraded to a higher quality mic after I was nearly 200 episodes in!
Bobby Klinck, BobbyKlinck.com
Audacity Software
Podcasters will need to download Audacity to record and edit their audio content. It’s free of charge and compatible with many different computer systems. This form of content requires live recordings, editing audio formats, or changing the speed of the sound. For anyone looking to pursue a career in podcasting, Audacity is a user-friendly place to start.
Lillie Sun, Three Ships Beauty
Acoustic Panels
Even the best recording equipment in the market cannot do justice to its potential without the magic of soundproofing to go with it. Soundproofing the room where you intend to record your podcast is crucial to record clear audio. Clear audio refers to recordings free from disturbances like echoes and reverbs that can divert your audience’s attention. Acoustic panels are not too expensive. And, even at those costs, they go a long way in soundproofing a standard room and turning it into a noise-free haven for recording sound.
Larissa Pickens, Everfumed
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