Essential Podcasting Gear: Recommendations on Mics, Editing Software and More

Essential Podcasting Gear: Recommendations on Mics, Editing Software and More

Podcasting has exploded into a mainstream digital audio medium, with over two million active shows and 100 million monthly listeners across diverse niches. But creating a professional high quality podcast capable of cutting through the noise requires the proper gear and tools.

This guide explores essentials across microphones, headphones, editing software, hosting platforms and accessories needed to launch and run a polished podcast. Let’s dive in!

Microphone Essentials

High-quality microphones are by far the most critical component for achieving engaging recording quality.

Studio Condenser Microphones

Large diaphragm studio condenser mics like the industry standard Shure SM7B or affordable Audio-Technica AT2020 capture rich vocal recordings suitable for most podcasts and broadcast.

USB Microphones

Combine mic and interface into one plug-and-play device. Budget options like Blue Yeti work. Or upgrade to the Shure MV7 for broadcast-ready results equaling or exceeding studio mics paired with an interface.

Dynamic Microphones

Rugged mics good in untreated spaces. The Shure SM58 or Sennheiser e835 excel at live recording and minimizing ambient sounds for clear voice isolation.

Lavalier Microphones

Clip-on mics like the Sennheiser ME 2 excel for interviews, mobile recording and dual host talk formats.

Shotgun Microphones

Directional mic good for field recording. Useful for boosting audio clarity during remote interviews or on-location shoots.

Audio Interface

Required for studio condenser mics. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 provides quality results on a budget.

Headphones and Monitors

Quality headphones ensure you can accurately monitor and edit your recordings:

Over-Ear Studio Headphones

Look for over-ear closed back headphones with flat frequency response optimized for mixing like models from Sony, Sennheiser, AKG and Audio-Technica. Great for late-night recording.

Monitor Speakers

Add reference studio monitors like the Kali Audio LP-6 or Presonus Eris E5 XT to check mixes on proper speakers. Positioned properly, results will translate well to listeners.

Noise Isolating Earbuds

When recording on-the-go, noise isolating earbuds like Shure SE215 block out environmental sounds for improved monitoring.

Bluetooth Headphones

Wireless headphones provide flexibility to move around while recording. Look for minimal latency and solid mic quality.

Digital Audio Workstations

You’ll need digital editing software for recording, mixing and exporting episodes:

Adobe Audition

Robust toolset for intensive audio production including effects, soundbeds, repair tools and publishing capabilities. And integrates seamlessly with other Adobe apps.

Apple Logic Pro

Equally full-featured DAW for Mac. Includes extensive effects and instruments useful for podcast scoring and sound design.

Ableton Live

Music-centric DAW with unique nonlinear Session View makes arranging and manipulating clips easy.

Hindenburg Journalist Pro

Specialized multitrack DAW tailored specifically for podcast production including field recording capabilities.

Reaper

Affordable yet still very capable open-source DAW gaining popularity in the podcast realm. Customizable to different experience levels.

Garageband

Free simplified entry-level DAW for Mac and iOS. Surprisingly full-featured given the approachable interface. Provides a quick learning curve.

Additional Helpful Equipment

Round out your kit with these extras:

Pop Filters

Foam windscreen blocks plosives and breathing sounds. Essential for quality vocal recordings.

Shockmounts

Suspension mount isolates mic from bumps, vibrations and handling noise. Reduces rumble. Rycote Lyre is the gold standard.

Mic Stands

Securely position mics in place. Look for sturdy boom options that allow easily adjusting placement as needed.

Audio Interfaces

For studio mics, provides XLR inputs and headphone preamp. Recommend Focusrite or Universal Audio.

Acoustic Treatment

Reduce echo and muffled sound using acoustic foam panels in your recording space.

Equipment Racks

Organize all your gear neatly together in one place. Brands like OnStage make compact racks.

Remote Recording Kits

Portable interfaces like the Zoom Podtrak P4 simplify recording interviews and episodes on the go.

Cables and Adapters

Stock up on XLR cables, TRS/TRRS aux cables, adapters and extenders to ensure connectivity.

Cloud Recording and Collaboration

Remote options facilitate co-hosting:

Zencastr

Records each host’s audio locally then uploads high quality WAV files to the cloud for syncing. Multi-track capabilities.

Squadcast

Browser-based multi-track recording with video chat, screensharing and instant file sharing great for remote podcast interviews.

Cleanfeed

Audio-only browser-based multi-end recording solution optimized specifically for podcast interviews and remotes.

Riverside.fm

Locally records each participant’s feed while also providing remote control over participant audio levels in real time.

Zoom

Popular video chat platform. Use built-in recording and cloud storage option to capture remote conversations. Quality varies.

Podcast Media Hosting

You’ll need a media host for wide distribution across apps and sites:

Buzzsprout

Easy set up and publishing. Includes website, player and apps submission. Starting at just $12/month.

Libsyn

Robust stats and community. From $5/month entry plan up to full-featured Pro Suite.

Captivate

Most affordable option starting at just $3.55/month for 3 hours. Works great for starting out.

Podbean

Very customizable players. Plans offer unlimited episodes starting at $9/month.

Transistor

Optimized for independent podcasters. Very accessible pricing at $19+/month.

Ongoing Learning Resources

Continually learn from pros to improve the production quality bar:

• The Podcast Engineer YouTube Channel
• The Audacity to Podcast
• The Podcasters’ Studio
• School of Podcasting
• The Podcast Junkie Interview Shows
• Music Radio Creative (Gary Taylor)
• The Podcast Host Podcast and Blog

Investing in the essential gear and software provides the technical capabilities to produce studio-quality shows able to thrive in the increasingly competitive podcasting world. The tools you use directly impact the listener experience.

FAQ for “Essential Podcasting Gear: Recommendations on Mics, Editing Software and More”

Why is high-quality gear important for podcasting?

High-quality gear is crucial for podcasting because it directly impacts the overall production quality of your show. Investing in quality microphones, headphones, and editing software ensures that your podcast sounds professional and engaging, which can help attract and retain listeners.

What type of microphone is best for podcasting?

The best microphone for podcasting depends on your specific needs and budget. Studio condenser microphones like the Shure SM7B or Audio-Technica AT2020 are popular choices for their rich vocal recordings. USB microphones like the Blue Yeti offer plug-and-play convenience, while dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 are rugged and ideal for live recording.

What editing software do I need for podcasting?

You’ll need a digital audio workstation (DAW) for recording, editing, and exporting podcast episodes. Popular options include Adobe Audition, Apple Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Hindenburg Journalist Pro. Free options like Garageband and Reaper are also available for beginners.

What accessories should I consider for podcasting?

Some essential accessories for podcasting include pop filters to reduce plosives, shock mounts to isolate the microphone from handling noise, and mic stands for secure positioning. Additionally, consider investing in audio interfaces, acoustic treatment for your recording space, and remote recording kits for on-the-go interviews.

How do I choose a podcast media hosting platform?

When choosing a podcast media hosting platform, consider factors such as ease of use, pricing, analytics, and distribution options. Popular hosting platforms include Buzzsprout, Libsyn, Podbean, and Transistor. Compare features and pricing to find the best fit for your podcasting needs.

Where can I learn more about podcasting?

There are many resources available to learn more about podcasting, including YouTube channels like The Podcast Engineer and The Audacity to Podcast, as well as podcasts like The Podcasters’ Studio and The Podcast Host. Additionally, websites like School of Podcasting and Music Radio Creative offer valuable insights and tips for aspiring podcasters.