Tools Required for Starting a Podcast

Want to get started with the basics of podcast recording to build up further? Follow this article to the end. With the help of this article, you will know what all essentials you need to start a podcast. There is not much that you require to start a podcast. You only need a PC, headphones, a microphone, and recording software so that you can reach out to listeners. You already are having some of the equipment which is needed for a podcast setup creation. Let’s talk about them in detail below.

Microphones

You will need a microphone to let your voice get your voice into your computer for recording. It is not recommended not to spend a lot of money on a microphone if the quality is not what you want, but make sure the better your podcast’s audio quality, the more professional it will sound. No one will listen to your podcasts if the audio is inferior. You can opt for the USB microphones. They are easy to handle and work efficiently. They can handle a one-person podcast.

Once you have spent a reasonable amount of time podcasting, you can go for a higher-end microphone. You can opt for microphones with XLR connections. These microphones need a mixer or an audio interface or a mixer, which provides you a more significant amount of control over your recording.

Some microphones offer both the USB as well as XLR connections. We recommend you start your journey with the USB connection, and then after some time, you can add a mixer or audio interface for use alongside the XLR capabilities. In general, there are two types of microphones: Dynamic and Condenser. Dynamic microphones are less expensive than condenser microphones. They provide good audio results alongside less feedback. On the other hand, Condenser microphones are more expensive and sensitive with a higher dynamic range. 

Microphones come with an individual sound pickup pattern that is either omnidirectional, bidirectional, or cardioid. If you are not in a soundproof studio, you will require a cardioid microphone. In case you want to share your microphone with your co-host, you can go for the bidirectional microphone.

Mixers

You will need a mixer; in case you choose an XLR microphone. Mixers come in various price ranges along with various channels. You will need a specific channel for every microphone you will use with the mixer. You can check for the mixers from Mackie mixers, Focusrite Scarlett series mixer, or Behringer.

Headphones

Headphones help in monitoring the recorded sound. Don’t go for the soft-shell headphones as they lack in suppressing sound. This may cause feedback. We recommend using a hard-shell headphone, which has a sturdy plastic or rubber outside. These kinds of headphones can easily trap the sound. You don’t need to spend a lot on headphones, but obviously, if you want good results, you will have to spend a decent amount on it.

Computer

If you have recently purchased a PC within some years, it can easily handle your podcast’s recording sessions. You don’t need to buy a new PC right away. You can still work efficiently with the one you already have. In case it doesn’t work correctly, then you can surely go for a new one with more memory and faster processing speed. But if it works fine, then there is no need to waste your money.

Recording & Mixing Software

Recording and mixing tools play a significant role in a podcast. You can record and mix your audio statically or straightforwardly in real-time. Mixing your audio in real-time needs the right tactics and reliable software. You should mix your audio in the form of a static project as it will allow you a more significant amount of time to make your finished product professional and more polished.

To start a podcast, you must have software. Many software related to mixing and recording is available in the market, both paid and free. You can start with a low at cost or free software. Once your podcast starts well, you can upgrade your software.

Internet Access

You will require a robust internet connection to upload your finished outcome when it is all set to be heard. Podcasts are large-sized files, so it is recommended that you should have a good internet connection.

So, you need a computer, a pair of headphones, a microphone, and a recording and mixing software f to start your podcast.

Emily Johnson is a Microsoft product expert and has been working in the technology industry since 2002. As a technical expert, Emily has written technical blogs, manuals, white papers, and reviews for many websites such as office.com/setup.

Source:  Tools Required for Starting a Podcast