I started my first podcast in February of 2021. Let’s just say, I’m glad Amazon has a generous return policy, because I bought a bunch of junk I didn’t actually need and couldn’t figure out how to use.
This is my comprehensive guide for the beginner podcaster to create a podcast that will have you sounding like a professional even if you still haven’t figured out all the details yet.
This is the exact equipment I used to launch my first 3 podcasts and I can confidently tell you, my new studio with $10,000 worth of equipment really isn’t that different.
Podcast Recorder/Mixer
(Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast Recorder) – ($149.99)
First thing’s first, you need a recorder to record the podcast. I love this mixer because it’s portable (you can use AA batteries or plug-in with a USB-C), it has phantom power to microphones, adjustable volume for both recording and listening, 4 different headphone ports and everything a podcaster needs to get started.
Microphone
(Zoom Dynamic Microphone) – ($49.99)
Alright, we’re friends – so I have to tell you the truth. All microphones are not created equal and every time I see a Blue Yeti Logitech USB microphone (sorry to call them out by name, but sometimes you have to) on someone’s desk I cry a little on the inside. These condenser microphones are the worst microphones you could use for recording and while they might look cute or have a nice color option, these Zoom Dynamic Microphones work comparably to my Shure microphones at a FRACTION of the price. Most of the time – you can’t tell a difference.
XLR Microphone Cable 10 Feet
(Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR Microphone Cable 10 Feet), – ($22.99)
Now that you have your podcast recorder and microphones you need cords to connect the two. You’ll need XLR cords and I’d recommend having at least a 10 foot cable, that way you have plenty of room to move around. I’ve used lots of different cords at all price points, I think these are a great price for the value.
Wired Headphones
(OneOdio A71 Hi-Res Studio Recording Headphones – Wired Over Ear Headphones), – ($31.99)
You need wired headphones. They don’t have to be the fanciest, but bluetooth headphones won’t work. Find a good pair of over the ear wired headphones for yourself, your guest and anyone listening to the show while you record. It’s vital you hear yourself while you start recording to assess how far you are from the microphone and learning how to control your voice.
Microphone Stands
(Adjustable Standing Microphone), – ($19.99)
(Short, Weighted Microphone Stand), – ($41.41)
We have two options. An adjustable standing microphone stand and a weighted short stand for the table. If you can only get one, the standing one is more adjustable and it’s easier for beginners. The problem with the table stand is it’s nice for sitting on the table or wherever you’re recording, but anytime you hit the table you’ll hear that noise back in the microphone. These are the stands I still use in my studio!
AUX Extension Cable
(Amazon Basics 3.5mm Aux Jack Audio Extension Cable), – ($9.94)
Take it from me, you need these. There’s nothing worse than trying to record an episode and everyone’s huddled around the podcast recorder and their headphone aren’t reaching far enough to spread out. Get at least 2 of these and it will make your life 1,000% easier.
SDXC Memory Card
(SanDisk Ultra 64GB Class 10 SDXC UHS-I Memory Card), – ($9.94)
You will need at least a 64 GB Memory Card for this mixer. Make sure you have a safe place for the cards! Personally, I wouldn’t recommend buying more than 2 memory cards. Record your episode, upload the files and store it in the machine or another safe place. This will help you get into the habit of knowing where your card is and not waiting to export files. There have been far too many cards that mysteriously went missing and I wouldn’t want it to happen to you!
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