Podcasting Gear Recommendations

Rode Procaster Bundle

This is a broadcast package is sometimes being offered by Rode, and it is a great deal with frequent special offers at a greatly reduced price for the entire bundle. If the bundle is currently out of stock, please check for the links to order the individual components below...  

The Procaster Broadcast Quality Dynamic Microphone from Rode is designed for capturing speech in broadcast radio, voice-over recording, podcasts, and similar applications. It features a tight cardioid polar pattern and tailored frequency response that result in optimum speech reproduction without off-axis noise. The all metal construction, internal pop-filter, and internal shockmount further minimize handling noise and contribute to the microphone's durability. The package includes a microphone stand mount and a zip pouch, Rode PSM1 Shock Mount and Rode PSA1 Studio Boom Arm

For a 2 person interview podcast setup, please purchase 2.

Rode WS2 Screen Pop Filters

These pop filters eliminating annoying "pop" and plosive sounds when a microphone is positioned close to one's mouth. This is an important accessory especially for beginning podcasters. With practice, proper mic technique and positioning can eliminate the need for these, but when first setting up a podcast studio these are a "must have" 

For a 2 person studio setup, please purchase 2.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Second Generation (2nd Gen) 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface

A USB audio interface is essential when using high quality XLR mics.

A good USB audio interface like this solves the following common problem: Dynamic and USB mics with a built-in USB interface often do not produce a strong enough signal when connected to a PC. In our experience this results either in weak audio recordings, or in the podcaster positioning the microphone very close to the mouth. With good recording technique this may not be a problem, but consistency and mic technique is key. Every small move towards or away from the mic results in annoying volume level changes.

The Focusrite solves this with great pre-amps that boost the audio signal with no quality loss. This means that the host can position the mic at a more comfortable and consistent distance, and still get a really strong audio signal. 

This unit can support 2 microphones and can thus serve in-studio guests as well. There are additional models with up to 4 microphone ports.

GLS Audio 12ft Mic Cable Patch Cords - XLR Male to XLR Female Black Cables

From what I could see, the Rode Procaster mic bundle does not come with any XLR cables, so you will need these to connect to the recording device. Depending on your own setup, you could choose shorter cables.

For a 2 person studio setup, please purchase 2.