Introduction: Starting A Podcast Today
Embarking on your podcasting journey requires the right equipment to ensure a professional and engaging production. Now of course you can start a podcast from the notes app on your phone, but creating a quality sounding product requires a but more!
In this guide, we'll explore our top podcasting equipment recommendations for 2024. Whether you're starting with an audio-only podcast or diving into the world of video podcasting, we've got you covered.
Audio-Only Podcasting Essentials:
Solo Podcasting | Software Mic:
To Start a Podcast, A reliable microphone is essential for capturing clear and crisp audio. For those just starting out, a USB mic with noise-canceling features.
In seasons 1 & 2 I used the Samson C01 Pro USB Condenser Mic for its excellent audio quality and ease of use. It's a fantastic choice for starting a solo podcaster or musician! It's also a great option to 'record the room' for either musicians or podcasters!
High End | £215: RØDE NT1 5th Gen
Mid-tier | £119: Blue Software Mic
Budget | £43: Audio Pro
Our Pick | £82: Samson C01 Pro USB Condenser Mic
Group Podcasting | Audio Interfaces & Mixers
If you plan on having multiple inputs, investing in an audio interface and possibly even a mixer is probably worth it. An audio interface connects your microphone to your computer, ensuring high-quality sound recording, and a mixer can allow for additional inputs.
On set of the Red Shutter Club, we currently use and have always used the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen. This model offers up to two inputs on its own, but a mixer could be used to expand this. For this model, two different mic cables would be required but the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen solves this issue.
Interface Recommendations:
High End | £145: Behringer U-PHORIA Audiophile 4X4
Mid-Tier (we use) | £74: Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen
Budget | £31: XTUGA USB Audio Interface
Our Pick | £103: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen
Mixer Recommendations:
High End | £114: Weymic CK-80 Mixing Console
Our Pick | £66: WEYMIC SE-80 Mixer
XLR Microphone:
If you choose to start a podcast recording with an interface, you will need a (few) XLR mics. Be sure to choose a reliable model to ensure high sound quality, and having a backup or secondary microphone is always a good idea.
The industry standard for XLR mics is the SM58, and for a reason! These mics work great for podcasting and can be found for fairly cheap second hand, but we have listed other options. With mics in this capacity, you are quite flexible in what you can use. For example, you might be discouraged from using a Shure 55SH Series for a stage performance, but in a much tamer podcast setting, you can get away with a whole lot more!
On set, we currently use some second hand SM58's (having changed out the mic head/grill for a few bucks).
Decorative Choice | £149: Shure 55SH Series
High End | £187: RØDE PodMic
Mid-Tier | £154: Shure MV7X Podcast Mic
Budget | £5-50: Check Facebook Marketplace for SM58's!
Our Choice | £104: Shure SM58
Mic Cables:
To actually start a Podcast you actually need to connect your microphone and audio interface. Depending on your set up, you might need a few different cables, but we've got you covered (just check the connections before you buy)!
XLR to XLR | £12: Regular Length, 2pk
XLR to XLR | £20: Long Length, 2pk
Female XLR to Jack | £12 For Scarlet Solo 2nd Input
Mic Stands:
You've got your mics, you've got em plugged in, now if you don't want to hold it (or if you want a more consistent sound with less background noise), a stand is the way to go. We use both a desk mounded boom. Just ensure you have the right clips and mounts for the microphone you choose.
High End | £69: Luxury Mounded Boom
Standard | £27: Standard Floor Tripod
Budget | £17: Desk Mounted Boom
Expanding to Video Podcasting:
To start a Podcast is one thing, but to start a video podcast is an entirely different beast! You will need everything you have for the above podcast. Below, I've simply listed what we use (or we will use once we can afford to invest!) Again, you can just record a video podcast from your phone (which we do often use an iPhone for one of our camera angles), but producing a high quality product that will stand out involves a little bit more!
Lighting:
Lighting is soooo incredibly important. Proper lighting is the only reason we are able to film on an iPhone selfie camera for one of our angles! Below is what we have used on our set:
High End | £59: Mounted LED Pannels
Budget | £19: Ring Light (with Tripod & Phone Holder)
Cameras:
Using a decent phone camera is a great way to get started, but that takes a whole lot of storage! Using a real camera might take a little bit of a learning curb, but will offer a great result.
Professional | £1,849: Panasonic HC-X2000E
Mid-Tier | £644: Sony Vlog camera ZV-1
What we use | £336: Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera
Budget | £57: Sunscien Camcorder
Tripods
To hold either your camera or lights in place!
High End | £69: More sturdy & Adjustable
Budget | £15: Basic Tripod
Data Storage
Video editing takes a LOT more storage than you think it will. Any one of our episodes can take from 200 to 600GB of space, with a single camera angle taking up to 30GB alone for longer episodes. Before you begin, be sure you have ample storage!
SD Card | £9: Lowest Reccomended Storage (64GB)
SD Card | £13: Ample Storage (128GB)
Hard Drive | £69: LaCie Mobile Drive (1TB) (MACBOOK)
Hard Drive (Our Choice)| £134: LaCie Mobile Drive (4TB) (MACBOOK)
Hard Drive | £72: SanDisk 1TB
Hard Drive | £255: SanDisk 4TB
Laptop:
I know almost nothing about computers, so I am not even going to try and make recommendations outside of what I know. I have used a Macbook Pro to edit every video on our channel as of today, and I probably will for a long time. I'm sure there are great non-apple computers and laptops out there, but to be frank every non apple computer I've ever has has just died on me in a few years. Graveyard aside, apple computers are known for their editing capabilities on Final Cut (get it on student discount - you can get all of their programs for like £99!)
High End | £2,999: Maxed out 2023 Macbook Pro
Closest to what we Use | £1,459: Macbook Pro
Mid-Tier | £1,029: 2022 Macbook Air
Budget: Buy Used!
Set Decorations:
These are really left to personal preference! Use what you can from around your house already, but a few neon signs never hurt anyone!
Conclusion: You're Ready to Start a Podcast!
Launching your podcast with the right equipment is crucial for success. Whether you're starting with audio-only or venturing into video podcasting, these recommendations will help you create content that stands out. Remember, the key is to choose equipment that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Ready to start a podcast? Explore these top-notch tools and elevate your podcasting experience!
🌟 Don't Miss a Beat! Subscribe for Updates & Catch Us Sundays at 11 AM! 🎉✉️
Subscribe now for the latest content, exclusive announcements, and insider insights.
*Prices as of 20th Jan 2024 | This article contains affiliate links | We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.
Comments