What tools do Podcasters need in 2021?

Podcasting Tools

If you’re new to podcasting, it can be difficult to sort through and find the right equipment. There are a lot of podcast gears available, but that doesn’t mean you have to acquire everything – and you can always add to your podcast gear collection over time.

We’ll go over the audio recording equipment you’ll need, as well as some additional items you might want to consider as you grow more serious about setting up a comprehensive podcast studio.

In 2021, you’ll need the following podcasting equipment:

  • a computer.

  • a sound recording device

…they’re the first two items on the list. And I am not even kidding because you gotta start from the basics.

If you’re recording with a group, you’ll want to avoid using USB microphones, which means you’ll need an audio interface or mixer to connect numerous XLR microphones.

Also, depending on the amount of hosts you have, check at the podcasting beginner kit for additional specific equipment requirements.

Beginners can choose from a variety of low-cost alternatives, as well as upgrades for intermediate and advanced players.

  • Computer

Isn’t that common sense? To record and upload your .mp3 files, you’ll need a computer. Most individuals can get by with what they have, but if you want to upgrade, I recommend investing in something that will last a few years.

 

  • Microphones are used to record audio

Use your computer’s built-in microphone sparingly. A USB microphone is the simplest way to get started. You’ll need one or more microphones with an XLR output if you’re working with a group of people or want more versatility.

Consider your recording settings as well as the microphone you’ll need: dynamic or condenser (dynamic mics are typically better when recording multiple people together).

 

 

  • Audio Interface

This is the link that connects your microphone to your computer.

It transforms the mic’s analogue signal into a digital signal that the computer can understand.

 

  • Mixer

A mixer is similar to an audio interface, but it allows you more control over levels, inputs, outputs, and other features.

It’s also important to set up a mix-minus line for your distant visitors if you plan to have call-in guests on a regular basis.

 

  • Windscreen / Pop Filter

Plosives are considerably reduced or eliminated when using a pop filter or windscreen.

Say “power” with your hand in front of your lips — can you feel the air on the “p”?

That’s what you’re shielding the mic from – those air blasts may easily damage a mic.

 

  • Headphones

Many mistakes and retakes can be avoided with the use of headphones. Hearing yourself talk aloud can be strange at first, but you’ll get used to it. It is strongly advised that you become accustomed to this. You don’t want to record things for an hour only to discover that something wasn’t turned on or that there was a constant buzz.

You’ll need closed-back headphones for recording, and regular earbuds are probably not up to the task. When recording, avoid using open-back headphones because your microphone will pick up the sound.

 

 

  • Headphone Amplifier

You’ll need a headphone amp if you have multiple hosts because each of you will need your own pair of headphones. Consider it a headphone splitter and amplifier rolled into one.

 

  • Microphone stands

The appropriate placement of your microphone will drastically enhance your posture and sound quality. You’ll be able to simply move the microphone to a comfortable position with a decent boom arm or mic stand, and you’ll be able to free up desk space by storing the mic within reach but out of the way when you’re not using it.

 

  • Shock Mount

Any sound that does not have to travel through the air is extremely sensitive to microphones. From touching the desk to typing to shifting your boom arm to little vibrations that you might not even notice, a shock mount will eliminate or minimise undesired sounds. A compatible shock mount is available from most microphone manufacturers, and some even include one with the mic.

 

  • Cables for microphones

You’ll need to connect your microphone to your audio interface, mixer, or preamp in some way. XLR microphone cables have a lot of components, and cheap ones can cause more troubles than they’re worth.

  • Acoustic Treatment

Some rooms are worse than others, but if you have a lot of echo or reverb in your recording space, a little acoustic treatment might help a lot.

  • Software for Editing (DAW)

Audacity or Garageband are two podcast editing programmes that I recommend for beginners. They’re both free and relatively simple to use. Adobe Audition is the next step up, and if you already have a Creative Cloud subscription, it’s generally best to stick with it.

  • Podcast Hosting

For your podcast files, you’ll need dedicated hosting (I use and recommend Buzzsprout).

It’s a widespread myth, but iTunes doesn’t really host your .mp3 files; instead, it reads an RSS feed and allows users to listen to your songs that are housed elsewhere.

Here’s how to get your music onto iTunes. You don’t want to put the files on your website host because that would slow down your site and cause problems when people try to listen to it.

  • Hosting a website

Many podcasts will require a website to allow listeners to learn more about the show and access other resources.

I advise you to choose a WordPress hosting service.

Bluehost is one of the easiest to get started with, and they have great prices for new sites.

  • Digital Recorder for Podcasting on the Go

A portable digital recorder will be your best buddy if you’re doing interviews on the go.

You can start with an external microphone for your iPhone, but a dedicated portable recorder will give you a lot more options (they can even double as a USB interface).

 

  • Microphone

Depending on the type of podcast you’ll be producing, you have a variety of alternatives.

Check out these interview microphones if you’re conducting interviews.

 

  • SD Memory Card

Don’t forget to bring more storage for your digital recorder!

So you don’t run out of space on the road, pick up a handful of these 32GB SD cards. Make sure you know what the maximum SD card size is for your recorder (the H4N Pro above allows up to 32GB).

Thats pretty much it as we covered broad spectrum of almost all the equipment software you need to start a podcaster of your own and scale it from an amateur level to professional level. Do check out  Happy Podcasting folks!

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