Podcast FAQ

things you need for a podcast

by Rebeca Beatty Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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List of Podcasting Gear

  • Computer. Common sense right? You need a computer to record and upload your .mp3 files. Most people will do just fine...
  • Microphones. Don’t use your computer’s built-in microphone. The easiest way to get started is to use a USB microphone.
  • Audio Interface. This is basically the bridge between your microphone and your computer. It converts the...

A Complete List of Podcast Equipment for Beginners
  • A computer.
  • An XLR or USB microphone.
  • Mixer.
  • Pop filter or windscreen.
  • Headphones.
  • Microphone stand.
  • Acoustic treatments.
  • Recording and editing software.
May 24, 2022

Full Answer

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 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. ...

Why do you need to start a podcast?

Why start a podcast?

  • You have a story to tell, and audio is an intimate, relatable way to tell it.
  • Listeners feel connected to the podcasts they listen to, and to the people on them.
  • It’s really fun - and so rewarding to hear that people love listening to your podcast.
  • Nearly 70 million Americans listen to podcasts every month, and that number is going up.

How many people do you need to start a podcast?

How to Start a Podcast: Every Single Step for 2021

  1. What's Your Podcast For? So firstly, why do you want to make a podcast? ...
  2. Who is Your Podcast For? So first day, get the big question in: Who are you making this podcast for? ...
  3. Give Them a Reason to Listen Whether you're providing information that will help someone to lose weight (in the case of our personal trainer), or doing a really entertaining ...

More items...

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What equipment is needed for a podcast?

For a conventional podcast, you need at a minimum a microphone, headphones, a computer, recording and mixing software, and internet access.

What are the basic things you need to start a podcast?

Steps to Start a PodcastDecide why you want to start a podcast.Choose a podcast topic, theme, and name.Select a podcast format and structure.Create podcast branding.Set up your podcast equipment.Find the best podcast recording software.Prepare for your first few podcast episodes.More items...•

Do podcasts make money?

Sponsorships are the most common way podcasters make money. This is when the podcast promotes the sponsor during the show. You probably hear your favorite shows plug their advertisers a few times in every episode. How much you earn from a sponsor depends on the number of downloads your episodes earn.

How much money do podcasts make?

Assume you're a podcaster and you do the following each month: 1.00% of your audience purchases through your link, earning you $15 for each sale. 0.05% of your audience buys an online course per month for $99. You release about four episodes of your podcast each month.

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 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.

Why are podcast hosts important?

Podcast hosts are an essential part of getting your show into people’s ears because they’re the link between you and the podcast directories (this is where listeners find your show). There are a bunch of different ones out there so again it will come down to personal preference.

Do I need a microphone for a podcast?

Microphone (s) You definitely need a microphone if you want to start a podcast. In fact, you’ll need one for every voice on your show. Unfortunately, your computer’s inbuilt microphone isn’t going to cut it unless you want it to sound like you’re broadcasting from a toilet.

What Do You Need To Start A Podcast – The Ultimate Guide

Everything you need to know to launch a podcast This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you. There is no denying the meteoric rise of podcasts in the past 12 months. Covid forced us to stay at home and connect online.

Why now is the perfect time to start a podcast

There are over 1.7 million titles available for avid podcast listeners and the hunger for compelling audio does not look like it will slow down anytime soon.

Before you start a podcast you need to consider the following points

Potential podcasters might be tempted to jump feet first. Before you think about investing in expensive equipment and a podcast hosting platform you need to do market research. There are millions of podcasts available across Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other podcast directories.

How to start a podcast

Once you have done your research and are committed to launching a podcast your next step is to plan your first four episodes.

Essential tools for creating a podcast episode

The good news is you do not need to spend a small fortune on podcast equipment. A very basic setup is a USB microphone, computer/laptop, editing software, and podcast hosting platform.

How to record and edit a podcast

Zoom became part of everyday life in 2020 and it’s also a handy tool for podcasters. Zoom recordings create a downloadable MP3 file that can be edited for your episodes. You also have the option of creating two separate tracks if you have a guest, this will be useful if you have an audio editor.

Choosing podcast music

In an average 40min podcast episode you may have 30-45 seconds of music including intro music and outro music. The music industry has strict copyright and usage laws so you will not be able to use your favorite music for your podcast.

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.

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.

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