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What equipment do you need to start a podcast?

What equipment do you need to start a podcast?

Podcasting has exploded in popularity, becoming a vibrant medium for sharing stories, ideas, and expertise. If you’re considering starting your own podcast, one of the first questions you might ask is, “What equipment do I need?” Having the right tools can significantly enhance your production quality and listener experience. Let’s break down the essential equipment you’ll need to get started.

Microphone

Arguably the most crucial piece of equipment for any podcaster, but which microphone is right for you? Our favorites include the Shure MV7+, Shure SM7DB, the Heil PR40 and Rode NT1-A: 
  1. Shure MV7+ - The MV7+ Podcast Microphone is a dynamic microphone built for podcasters. This microphone offers USB-C and XLR outputs, a new digital pop filter.
  2. Sm7db is an audio icon. The SM7dB is a dynamic vocal microphone with built-in preamp providing up to +28 dB of low-noise, flat, transparent gain ideal for almost any interface and simplified audio chains.
  3. Heil PR40 Microphone - The Heil PR 40 is the quintessential dynamic microphone for podcast, broadcast, home and studio recording, and live sound applications. 
Shure MV7 microphone whiteShure MV7+ microphone black close

Audio Interface or Mixer

Audio interferences and mixers often get compared to each other in a podcasting setting but there are some key differences that need to be understood in order to choose the one that fits your podcast best. 
Audio Interferences - An audio interface converts analog audio signals (like those from microphones or instruments) into digital signals that your computer can process. And visa versa. If your main goal is to record audio directly into your computer, an audio interface is often the best choice. It provides the essential conversion and monitoring capabilities you need. Popular Interferences include the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and Tascam MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42

Tascam_MiNiSTUDIO_CREATOR_US_black

Mixers - A mixer is designed to combine multiple audio signals and adjust their levels, panning, and effects before sending them to a recording device or speakers. If your podcast has multiple hosts or includes guests of your show (ie multiple audio sources) a mixer would be more suitable. Our favorite in studio mixer are the Rode RODECaster Pro II and the Zoom PodTrak P8 while the Zoom H6essential is ideal for on the go podcasters due to its portability. 
Rode RODECaster Pro II white full

Headphones

In order to monitor your audio while recording and editing your podcast hosts need quality headphones. Closed-back headphones such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M70x and Shure SRH1540 will minimize sound leakage. Good headphones help you catch issues in real-time, ensuring a polished final product.
Audio-technica-ATH-M70 black headphones side view

Recording Software (DAW)

Your choice of Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) will play a significant role in how you edit and produce your podcast. Audacity is a free open source option that is beginner friendly and rich in features.

Accessories 

While not necessary, accessories such as a microphone stand and pop filter allow for comfort while recording and can help eliminate sounds. 

Acoustic Treatment

While not strictly equipment, treating your recording space can significantly enhance audio quality. Simple solutions will eliminate or reduce echo and background noise. A well-treated space can make even modest equipment sound professional.
For a more stylish solution explore Podcast Provision’s acoustic panels such as the Acoustic Rhomboid, Acoustic Triangles and more shapes. Embrace the artistic side of your podcast by using different acoustic panel colors, sizes and shapes. Also in the sound eliminating game is the VersaPane Acoustical Partition Wall  which provides a one solution to create a space specifically for your recording. 

rhom design 2

Conclusion

Starting a podcast can seem daunting, but let Podcast Provisions help you create the perfect podcast space for you to enable the power of conversation! With the right equipment, you can create a professional-sounding show that captivates your audience. Happy podcasting!
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