If you are planning to start your podcast, one key component of that would be the podcasting equipment. There are so many devices and equipment that you can go for. However, getting everything is not necessary if you are just starting.
So, it is very important to determine the most important things that you need to begin. Over time, you can keep on adding new things and improve your equipment.
In this guide, we are going to highlight the things that you need to start and the ones that you can add along the way. So, let’s get started.
- Mic
For podcasting, a microphone or a mic is the most obvious device you are going to need.
Although our laptops or mobile devices have built-in microphones in them, they are not going to be enough for podcasting. The major reason is that they record and provide audio in the lowest quality, which doesn’t work well for podcasts.
So, it is better to get a USB or XLR mic if you are serious about podcasting. That will allow you to record audio in high quality and with a better sound effect.
- A Laptop
The second thing that you need for podcasting is a laptop. When you are just starting and have no idea about podcasting, you can use some other recording device such as a mobile phone to record the audio and test the ways how you can improve.
But once you have made your decision, get a best laptop for podcasting to record and upload your files.
There is no need to begin with a high-end Mac or a Dell XPS 15 because your regular laptop would work fine. And when you plan on building your studio, then you can get whatever suits you the best.
- Internet Connection
Since you will upload your files online or maybe use cloud-based recording software as well, an internet connection is very important for you to have.
Initially, a download speed of up to 25 Mbps or more would be fine which you can get easily through most of the service providers if you are living in a city. However, if you are located in a rural area, it might be a bit of a problem for you.
In that case, go for internet service providers such as hughesnet internet that can deliver this speed. You can check their promotions available in your area and save some bucks.
- Recording Software
Recording software is essential to record your podcast on the laptop. Another benefit of it is that most of the recording software also allows users to edit the files. So, you get 2 in 1 with good recording software.
You can find both free and premium versions of the recording software. Moreover, there are several options to choose from, but the decision depends upon your preferences.
If you want to go with cloud-based free software, Zencastr is a great choice. On the other hand, if you don’t mind recording locally (on your laptop), Garageband and Audacity are the two best options you can rely on. And both are available for free.
- Audio Mixer & Interface
An audio interface works as a bridge that allows you to connect input or output devices to your laptop such as XLR mic, which can’t be connected directly to the laptop. Meanwhile, the mixer offers you more control over the sound levels, output, and input.
So, if you are planning to have guests over for the podcast and will be using more than one microphone, a mixer and an audio interface are a good addition to your podcasting equipment.
- Headphones
Although it might sound weird, you will also need headphones to listen to yourself while recording. Don’t worry because there is a good reason behind it.
You don’t want to record a show for hours, only to realize that there are several mistakes in it. Wearing headphones and listening to yourself decreases the possibility of such mistakes.
Moreover, you can also adjust the audio levels and control the interference right away instead of re-recording the whole thing.
- Mic Stand
A mic stand is a good way to adjust the mic as per your liking or move it around. These also give a better image if you have some guests over who would be participating.
If you are looking for a more professional solution, then the boom arm is the one instead of a mic stand. But the problem is that these are pricey.
- Shock Mount
Want to get rid of the sounds like tapping, typing, or mic dragging in your podcast, a shock mount is what you need.
Some good microphones have that included with them, but usually, you have to buy them separately. A shock mount will help you to avoid unwanted sounds in the recording and make your work look more professional.
Summing Up
It is more or less the equipment that you will need to start podcasting online. If you are just starting out, then a combination of a mic, laptop with an internet connection, and recording software will work fine for you.
Other devices such as mixers, additional mics, shock mount, or boom arms can be added later when you have a more professional set-up and are sure you want to take things further.