Podcasting Gear Recommendations
One Person Solo (or Interview) Starter Package
Budget Version
This setup is for setting up an affordable solo podcast for Skype and Zoom interviews.
The focus is on a flexible decent dynamic microphone and a good USB audio interface. The main difference between this and more expensive packages are that the microphones I recommend are high quality, but still in the budget range. I also feature a slightly less expensive boom arm than in the premium package.
At the time of this writing, the package comes in around $350.
Affiliate Disclaimer:
Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1
These microphones are Dynamic mics. These reject background noise and are perfect for studio that are not sound-proofed. They need to be quite close to the speaker's mouth, as is true with all dynamic microphones. Therefore they require mounting on a boom arm. I also recommend using a shock mount as this improves sound quality and eliminates desk banging noises.
For a 2 person in studio interview podcast setup, please purchase 2.
2
Innogear Boom Scissor Arm
This Boom arm is necessary when using any dynamic microphone so that the podcast hosts and guests can be comfortably seated and position the microphone close to their mouth. We recommend a 6" distance when using the AT2005 type microphones.
These boom arms are longer than most budget arms and therefore have a greater reach. They also have better construction overall and are easier to clean than models with external springs.
I consider these to be mid-range investments. They are better than most base models, but still far inferior when compared to the market leading HEIL stand in the premium package.
For a 2 person studio setup, please purchase 2.
3
On Stage MY-420 Microphone Shock Mount
When mounting dynamic microphones to a desk using a boom arm, we should always use a shock mount. This isolates the microphone from annoying tapping and desk banging sounds all to common when using microphone stands.
For a 2 person studio setup, please purchase 2.
4
PEMOTech 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.
5
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.
Optional: For Solo Podcasters
6
Zoom H4 Four -Track Portable Recorder
This is one of the best and most flexible audio recording tools out there. I recommend this primarily because it makes for a future proof investment. It can be used in a range of situations inside the studio or out on the road.
The H4 It has powerful and clean pre-amps, which alleviate the most common complaint about Dynamic Mics having a weak signal output level. These amps are plenty strong to get decent recording levels.
Optional: For Podcasters Doing Their Own Mixing
7
Senal SMH-1000 Closed-Back Professional Monitor Headphones
Every podcaster needs a pair of "studio monitor" headphones that do not color the sound. You do not want to use "normal" headphones, since these usually have enhanced bass response, since these will lead to bad editing and sound decisions that will sound horrible on other devices.
An excellent choice for commercial recording, broadcast, home studios, and live and location sound.
Over-ear, closed-back (circumaural) stereo headphone design to help block unwanted environmental noise. Ideal for use in professional applications such as studio or field recording.
Detachable, twist-locking 10' coiled cable and 3' straight cable included. Replacement cables also available from Senal.
Padded headband and soft, replaceable ear cushions. Replacement cushions are available for purchase.
Easy storage via collapsible folding mechanism.
Other Podcasting Gear Packages
2 Person Podcast Studio Starter Package - Premium Version
This package is similar to the 2 person budget package, but features better microphones and boom arms
2 Person Podcast Studio Starter Package - Budget Version
This package is similar to the 2 person premium package, but features more basic microphones and boom arms
We hope you enjoy using this resources page for setting up your podcast environment!
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