The 10 Technology Items You'll Need to Start a Podcast
- 1. A good microphone Audio is one area that you won’t want to cut corners with. ...
- 2. Headphones Your headphones don’t have to be top of the line, but you will want something that’s up to the job. ...
- 3. A pop filter When talking directly into the microphone, your b’s and p’s will sound amplified. ...
- 5. A Skype account If you’re going to be doing interviews on your show at some point, you’ll want to use Skype. ...
- 6. Recording and editing software You’ll need a way to edit your audio. You can start with a free program if you’d like. ...
- 7. ID3 Editor Most podcast and recording software will allow you to tag your podcasts using ID3 tags, but if not, you can easily do it with an ID3 editor. ...
- 8. A podcast hosting account Don’t worry about podcasts eating up your bandwidth; you don’t have to host on your website. ...
- 9. Design software This one’s not entirely necessary -- but again, it’s a very good idea. ...
- 10. A vanity URL
What equipment do you need to start a podcast?
The 10 Technology Items You'll Need to Start a Podcast
- 1. A good microphone Audio is one area that you won’t want to cut corners with. ...
- 2. Headphones Your headphones don’t have to be top of the line, but you will want something that’s up to the job. ...
- 3. A pop filter When talking directly into the microphone, your b’s and p’s will sound amplified. ...
- 5. ...
- 6. ...
- 7. ...
- 8. ...
- 9. ...
- 10. ...
What do you need to start a podcast?
List of Podcasting Gear
- Computer. Common sense right? ...
- Microphones. Don’t use your computer’s built-in microphone. ...
- Audio Interface. This is basically the bridge between your microphone and your computer. ...
- Mixer. ...
- Pop Filter / Windscreen. ...
- Headphones. ...
- Headphone Amplifier. ...
- Mic Stands. ...
- Shock Mount. ...
- Microphone Cables. ...
What do you need to know about starting a podcast?
Step #7: Prepare and make a recording
- Preparing a plan. The first thing that you need to do is to figure out a plan for your content. ...
- Creating an episode script. Podcasters often do not agree on the process of writing a script for a podcast. ...
- Recording equipment. To record a high-quality podcast, you require the best podcast recording equipment. ...
- Recording and editing software. ...
- Getting music. ...
What do you need to produce a professional podcast?
Podcast Equipment: What Do I Need, & Why Do I Need It?
- Types of Podcast Equipment (And Why You Might Need Them) Let's run through the various pieces of equipment commonly used to record a podcast, then. ...
- The Microphone. ...
- The Recorder. ...
- Interfaces & Mixers. ...
- Headphones. ...
- Production & Publishing. ...
- Summary: Podcast Equipment. ...
Computer
Common sense right? You need a computer to record and upload your .mp3 files. Most people will do just fine with what they have, but if you looking to upgrade I would invest in something that will last you a few years.
Microphones
Don’t use your computer’s built-in microphone. The easiest way to get started is to use a USB microphone. If you have multiple people or you want more flexibility, you will need one or more microphones with an XLR output.
Audio Interface
This is basically the bridge between your microphone and your computer. It converts the analog signal from the mic into a digital signal that the computer can use.
Mixer
Similar the audio interface above, but a mixer gives you more control over levels, inputs, outputs, and more. Also crucial if you plan to regularly have call-in guests so you get set up a mix-minus line for your remote guests.
Headphones
Headphones prevent many mistakes and retakes. It can be weird to hear yourself speaking live at first, but you’ll get used to it. It’s highly recommended you get used to this. You don’t want to record something for an hour only to realize something wasn’t turned on or there was a loud buzz the whole time.
Headphone Amplifier
When you have several hosts, you’ll need a headphone amp so that each of you can have your pair of headphones. Think of it as a headphone splitter and amplifier in one.
Mic Stands
Positioning your microphone properly will greatly improve your posture and sound quality. A decent boom arm or mic stand will allow you to easily move the microphone to a comfortable position – and equally important in my mind, you’ll be able to free up desk space and store the mic within reach, but out the way when you’re not using it.
How to expand your podcast reach?
One of the best ways to extend your podcast’s reach is by listing it on iTunes. If you do this, you’ll want to have a sweet-looking image next to your show’s name -- your cover art. This is the photo that people will see when browsing through shows or listening to yours -- so it does matter.
What cable do you need to connect a mic to a mixer?
If you choose this option, don’t forget to grab an XLR cable to connect the mic to the mixer. 2. Headphones. Your headphones don’t have to be top of the line, but you will want something that’s up to the job.
Do you need a boom for podcasting?
Though they're not strictly necessary when you’re first starting out, a suspension boom to hold the mic for you is necessary if you want to become a podcasting pro. Aside from saving you from arm cramps, a boom is also great for sound quality, as you won’t have to worry about the mic drifting away from you as you speak into it.
Can you tag a podcast?
Most podcast and recording software will allow you to tag your podcasts using ID3 tags, but if not, you can easily do it with an ID3 editor. This will allow you to store important information such as the title, track number and artist in the podcast -- and will allow the album art to appear when people download it.
What is an Alitu podcast?
Alitu is a tool that takes your recording, polishes it up, adds your music, and publishes the episode, all automatically. Learn more about Alitu. Finally, we get to the publishing stage. In order to upload your podcast for the world to hear, you need to sign up to a media host.
Can you use a rode smartlav+ to record podcasts?
The Rode SmartLav+ setup is ideal for on-the-go recording and location interviews.
What is the point of a podcast?
The whole point of a podcast is that people listen to it, so give them a reason to click on one of your episodes. Make it clear to people what they will get from listening to your show. If you look on any podcast directory you will see shows with titles like “How To…”, “Five Tips For…” etc.
What is a podcast host?
Media or Podcast hosts are services that store your audio and allow your listeners to listen, download, and subscribe to your podcast. One common misconception when learning how to start a podcast is that you upload your podcast to places like iTunes. This actually isn’t the case.
How many episodes of a season of podcast?
When you start a seasonal podcast, each season will usually have a theme. You might create episodes based on that theme or topic for 6-12 episodes, then have a break. After a month or two, you’ll launch a new season (with another theme/topic) and repeat the process.
How many people listen to podcasts?
Once a fringe platform, podcasts are now surprisingly mainstream. According to Nielsen, six out of 10 people understand what they are, and 112 million Americans -- 40 percent of the nation’s population -- have listened to at least one. Though podcast listeners lean male, it isn’t by much: 56 percent are men, while 44 percent are women.
Can you head off issues before a podcast?
Until you do it, you have no idea what to expect. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t head off issues before you go live . Expect a certain amount of learning as you go, but be ready to explore the technology before fully launching your podcast.
Can you release podcasts publicly?
And if you’ve planned in advance and have great content in the bag, you can simply not release it in lieu of a better one. Before you release your podcasts publicly, try to have several on hand. That way, you get the relief of a buffer zone. Don’t try to start too quickly. You can always ramp up your delivery later.
Can your target personas find your podcast?
Your target personas won’t find your podcast without a little help, so promote it like your life depends on it. I utilized our company’s email list, my personal social channels, and myriad other platforms. In addition, I requested that each guest promote his or her episode.
What is a mixer for podcasts?
Similar to an audio interface , a mixer helps improve your audio by giving you more control over sound levels, inputs, outputs, and more. Most digital audio workstations (DAWs) will allow you to mix and master multiple audio channels on your computer, but aside from some podcasters’ preference to do it manually, sometimes there’s no choice, especially when you’re going to have remote (call-in) guests.
What is the last step in the podcasting process?
The last major step of the podcasting work cycle is getting your podcast on iTunes or other hosting services ( after you’ve recorded and edited it). This is where you will hopefully start getting heard and gaining popularity, especially if you’re planning to make money from your podcasts.
What is the best filter for vocals?
Pop Filter. Photo by Blue. Another crucial piece of equipment that will help you capture great-sounding vocals is a pop filter or windscreen. Its main purpose is to minimize or prevent “plosives,” such as your P’s and T’s, by absorbing those powerful blasts of air before the sound reaches your microphone.
Do recording studios need acoustic treatment?
As with any type of recording studio, you’ll need to give your room some acoustic treatment. The extent will depend on how much echo or reverb is present, aside from the amount of external noise coming from outside the room, if any.
What are the obstacles to starting a podcast?
A common obstacle to starting a new podcast is figuring out the proper podcast equipment, especially finding the right balance between cost and quality. Although you can certainly create a podcast with little to no gear that you don’t already own, creating content that stands out and is not held back by audio quality can be a challenge ...
Is Audacity good for podcasts?
The pro of Audacity is how basic it is , but at the same time it can be a negative for podcasters that want to do a bit more with their audio. The editing tools that Audacity does provide can be a bit hard to navigate and getting the hang of it can be a challenge. Pro Tools First.
How many hosts should I have on a podcast?
I listen to a lot of podcasts and the most typical format is 2 or 3 hosts and sometimes one guest.
How to make a podcast on Apple?
Step 2: Log in to Apple Podcasts Connect. Using your Apple ID, log in at podcastsconnect.apple.com.
How often do podcasts post?
Forty percent of the Top 25 podcasts with a regular posting schedule publish once per week. The next most common frequency is twice per week. Of the Top 25, only three podcasts did not have a discernible schedule to their posting. It seems that some publishing rhythm is preferred over no rhythm.
What is audio used for?
Audio is being used in clever ways to fit into the content plans of some of the top forward-thinking websites and blogs. Tim Ferris—author of The Four-Hour Work Week — started a very popular podcast from his blog. Copyblogger runs their Lede podcast amid their traditional awesome marketing posts.
How long does it take to get approved for a podcast?
Apple will give you a confirmation message, letting you know that there may be a review process for your podcast. This is typically within 24 to 48 hours but can take up to five days. You will receive an email letting you know if you’re approved. Three to five days after that, people can begin searching and finding your podcast in the Apple Podcasts app.
How to sync podcast with blog?
Embedding audio is perhaps the best way to sync your podcast with your blog content. Many top blogs use their podcast as an additional blog post, adding the audio directly into the body of the post and providing either a full transcript of the podcast or a list of topics and resources covered in the podcast.
Is podcasting more crowded than blogging?
Michael Wolf, chief analyst of NextMarket Insights (and a notable podcaster), sees podcasting as a less crowded content channel than blogging. It has deeper engagement, as listeners tend to stay tuned in longer than with blog content.
