Podcast FAQ

what equipment do i need for a podcast

by Emilio Ferry Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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What equipment is needed to do a podcast?

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

What equipment do you need for a podcast beginner?

Recording Space: As a beginner, you'll need a minimal setup to record your voice or remote interview. All you need is a laptop, internet connection, and a place to record with low ceilings and preferably carpeted flooring.

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.

Can I start a podcast with my phone?

You absolutely can start podcasting with a smartphone. All you need is a simple recording app. You can even go with something podcast-specific such as Anchor or Spreaker which let you create episodes and upload right from your phone.

What is a dedicated digital recorder?

A dedicated digital recorder is a great option for someone who wants to podcast on the go but is looking for a level of sound quality above what you'll get with a smartphone. On top of that, digital recorders offer a lot more settings and options for creating audio, because that's what they're literally built for.

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.

What is the podcast equipment?

It's what software and tools you use on that computer that you need to give thought to.

What is a microphone?

The bottom line is that a microphone is simply the tech needed to “hear” your voice and send it onward to be recorded somewhere. This makes it the first part of our recording “chain.”

Why is it better to start simple?

It's better to start simple so you can focus on your actual content, rather than whether or not your long chain of gear is all working correctly. Over time, as you grow, you can tweak and upgrade things here and there.

Is a mixer necessary for podcasting?

On the mixer front, there's a growing argument that they're no longer necessary for podcasters who want all of the features listed above. Podcast-specific devices like the Zoom PodTrak P4 and Rode Rodecaster are much better options these days, in my opinion. That said, if a mixer is still something you'd like to shop around for, here's our best podcast mixers roundup which will give you a few options.

Do XLR mics need a computer?

XLR mics need additional equipment to run them. They don't plug straight into your computer, but instead, go into an interface, mixer, or digital recorder (more on these all later).

What is XLR microphone?

XLR podcasting microphones: has a 3 prong connection and is connected to a mixer and the computer. Typically used in professional setups. USB podcasting microphones: connects directly to the computer via a USB port. Typically used by beginners who prefer an easier setup and less equipment.

How many microphones does a MG10 mixer have?

The MG10 mixer has a 10-channel console that allows 4 microphone inputs. It includes 1 AUX send to incorporate additional sound effects or music while recording. Or try the MG06 option if you only need two mic inputs and don’t need the AUX live podcasting features.

What is an XLR mic?

Popular among professionals but expensive. An XLR, dynamic mic with a built-in pop filter. It also has multiple settings to better capture the qualities of male versus female voices. Its components shield against external hums and it has an internal suspension system to eliminate light vibrations.

What is a pop filter?

A pop filter is typically a foam or mesh screen fixed in front of the microphone while a windscreen fits over the top of the mic. If your podcast microphone doesn’t come with either built-in, this piece of equipment doesn’t break the bank and results in a much smoother sound.

What is the best way to get your mic up off your desk?

A mic stand or boom mount is a great solution for getting the mic up off the desk, and closer to mouth level. This is an important consideration because the vertical alignment (above or below) the mouth impacts the sound of your voice.

Why use a mixer for podcasts?

Mixer. Mixers are used to improve audio quality and offer multi-channel recordings for those with co-hosts or guests. It’s also a required piece for anyone using an XLR microphone. Adding a mixer to your podcast setup creates a new opportunity to record live episodes with AUX features.

How much RAM does a laptop have?

Budget friendly laptop for beginners. 8GB RAM, 12-hour battery life, 256GB of SSD storage, a speedy quad-core processor, and a variety of USB ports (Type-C, 3.0, and 2.0) and HDMI port.

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.

Why do podcasters use headphones?

It may be weird hearing your own voice at first, but it’s the best way to monitor your audio quality and check for any overlapping no ise and uneven mic sound levels so you don’t have to do retakes.

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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 happens when you move your microphone?

Whenever you move or re-position your microphone, slam your hand on the table after a particularly passionate declamation, or type on your keyboard, the movements cause vibrations and translate into your recordings as short, abrupt noises.

What filter does the Blue Yeti use?

If you have the Blue Yeti microphone, the Blue “The Pop” filter above will work perfectly with it. You can check our list of best pop filters to find one that works for your choice of microphone.

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.

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