Podcast FAQ

what equipment do you need to start a podcast

by Therese Medhurst Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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A computer is essential to podcasting because you'll want to use a digital audio workstation (DAW) to produce your show. That means using a recording and editing software to make the final episode sound cleaner and more professional. Computer wise, Mac or PC work just fine. Same for desktop or a laptop.May 24, 2022

What is the best equipment for a podcast?

Must-Have Podcast Tools

  1. External Microphone. Anyone who is even remotely familiar with the concept of sound recording will vouch for the importance of a good microphone.
  2. Microphone Stand & Boom Arm. Microphone stands, despite being relatively affordable, are often ignored by novice podcasters. ...
  3. Shock Mount. ...
  4. Pop Filters. ...
  5. Audio Interface. ...
  6. Headphones. ...
  7. Headphone Amplifier. ...

How do you start a podcast as a beginner?

  • Set a definite date and time for publishing
  • Have one evergreen recorded podcast (As a backup plan)
  • Mention Website link at the start & end of Show notes
  • Use an animated video overlay and publish your podcast on YouTube.
  • Connect with best minds in your industry by inviting them to be a guest on your podcast show.

What equipment do you need for a podcast?

What equipment do you need for a podcast? To start podcasting you'll only need a USB microphone, a pop filter, headphones, and a computer. More advanced users may want to buy an XLR microphone, audio interface, mixer, and a microphone stand.

What equipment do I need to record a podcast?

Non-Live Video Podcast Equipment

  • Camera. The truth is, you can get away with just your smartphone or webcam. ...
  • Memory Card. ...
  • Tripod. ...
  • External Microphone. ...
  • Audio Interface. ...
  • Audio Mixer. ...
  • Computer. ...
  • Video Recording/Editing Software. ...
  • Internet Connection. ...

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What do I need to start a podcast at home?

The 10 Technology Items You'll Need to Start a PodcastA good microphone. Audio is one area that you won't want to cut corners with. ... Headphones. ... A pop filter. ... A boom. ... A Skype account. ... Recording and editing software. ... ID3 Editor. ... A podcast hosting account.More items...•

How much does it cost to start a podcast?

In fact, if you already have a computer and you're operating on a shoestring budget, you can record, edit, and launch a podcast for less than $200. On the other hand, if you want to use higher-end equipment, starting a podcast can cost a few thousand dollars.

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 long does it take for a podcast to make money?

Relying on the experience of Marc Clair, a podcast host, and producer, it may take as long as 18 months before you start seeing results. That's if you produce a show weekly. In his words, things can be faster than stated if you have luck, a marketing budget, and irresistible content.

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 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.

Can you use a rode smartlav+ to record podcasts?

The Rode SmartLav+ setup is ideal for on-the-go recording and location interviews.

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 the best microphone for podcasts?

USB microphones are considered a great piece of podcast equipment for beginners because they’re the easiest way to record high-quality audio recordings on your computer and aren’t very expensive. USB mics are also highly portable – just plug it straight into the USB jack on your computer and it’s all set. Often USB mics also have a headphone output, so that you can hear the audio as you record. A highly recommended and affordable USB microphone is the Blue Yeti. However, if you are open to spending a bit more, you can also take into consideration the Rode NT-USB Microphone, another high-quality USB option.

What is a mic stand?

A mic stand keeps your microphone stable and the shock mount will minimize background noise that you may not even notice. For example, typing on the computer is a minor sound, but the microphone will still pick it up. Using a shock mount helps to keep the impact of noises like that to a minimum. The VIM VIP 3-in-1 cell phone and microphone stand is a nice option because if you have content you want to refer to on your cellphone while you’re recording, you can position it above your microphone. Another affordable microphone desk stand is the On Stage DS7200B. In terms of purchasing the right shock mount, usually the company that you buy your microphone from will offer one that is compatible.

M icrophones

The big decision! Which microphone should you buy for your podcast? There is not a "one size fits all" microphone that is perfect for everyone, but I have some good recommendations and some questions you can ask to help you decide which one.

Other essential podcast equipment

Now the microphone is over and done with, let's go through what else you might need to make your podcast sound incredible. Some of this equipment will be depending on the microphone you buy, such as the interface

Headphones

Wearing headphones when recording a podcast is more useful than you might initially think. You can monitor your own audio to check your levels and when recording remotely you avoid any potential mic bleed (where you can hear yourself back from the guests microphone).

I nterface

An interface is required if you want to use your XLR microphone with your computer. It essentially converts the XLR signal into a USB one that is recognised by your computer. There are many difference options that come with different features and functionality, but you get what you pay for in terms of budget.

Recorder

If you record in person or maybe you'd like a local backup of your remote recording then a physical audio recorder might be useful for you. These recorders also allow you to record without a laptop so is perfect for a travelling setup.

Accessories

Finally, some accessories that can enhance your recording. Some options are essential (depending on the microphone you buy) and others are useful if you're recording video or just want to bump up the quality.

When recording audio, should you use headphones?

When recording audio, you should always use headphones that give you a direct feed of your input. This will help you catch small noises and mistakes while recording, rather than having to search them out during the editing process.

Is podcasting a medium?

Podcasting remains a popular medium among listeners of all ages. It essentially serves as a crowd-sourced version of talk radio, where anyone can say what they want and build an audience around their unique perspective.

Can you edit audio on a podcast?

You’ll also need a way to edit your audio once you’ve finished recording. Sure, you could upload your audio directly to a hosting site, but the podcast will be much more entertaining if you edit out long pauses and mistakes.

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.

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Microphones

Other Essential Podcast Equipment

  • Now the microphone is over and done with, let's go through what else you might need to make your podcast sound incredible. Some of this equipment will be depending on the microphone you buy, such as the interface
See more on getwelder.com

Headphones

  • Wearing headphones when recording a podcast is more useful than you might initially think. You can monitor your own audio to check your levels and when recording remotely you avoid any potential mic bleed (where you can hear yourself back from the guests microphone). Any remote recording platform use echo cancellation technology to stop one person's audio being recorded …
See more on getwelder.com

Interface

  • An interface is required if you want to use your XLR microphone with your computer. It essentially converts the XLR signal into a USB one that is recognised by your computer. There are many difference options that come with different features and functionality, but you get what you pay for in terms of budget. If you buy a $400 microphone, don't ruin it with a $30 interface. The most …
See more on getwelder.com

Recorder

  • If you record in person or maybe you'd like a local backup of your remote recording then a physical audio recorder might be useful for you. These recorders also allow you to record without a laptop so is perfect for a travelling setup. I like the Zoom H6 which comes with 4 XLR inputs where you can record up to 4 people. This isn't cheap though, at about $400. If you're stretched for budget t…
See more on getwelder.com

Accessories

  • Finally, some accessories that can enhance your recording. Some options are essential (depending on the microphone you buy) and others are useful if you're recording video or just want to bump up the quality. Essential 1. XLR cables - $15. You'll need these to work with your XLR microphones. Don't go for the cheapest options, but anything over $15 will work well. 2. Mi…
See more on getwelder.com

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