Starting a podcast can be an exciting, but sometimes overwhelming, journey—especially when it comes to picking the right podcast equipment. There are so many options, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your setup, this guide will help you navigate the essential gear for your podcast without the hassle of chasing down price updates.

Let’s focus on what matters—great sound and ease of use.

Where to Start: What Do You Need?

Before jumping into the specifics, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions:

  • How comfortable are you with technology?
  • What’s your budget?
  • How many people will you be recording at once?
  • Where will you be recording?
  • How much editing are you willing to do?

Once you have your answers, it’ll be easier to figure out what’s essential and what you can skip.

Podcast Equipment: Microphones

podcast equipment

A good microphone is the heart of any podcast equipment. Let’s break down the best options.

USB Microphones (Perfect for Beginners & Intermediate Podcasters)

  • Audio-Technica ATR2100x USB: This one’s a favorite among podcasters, offering both USB and XLR connections for around $100. It’s versatile and great for those planning to eventually upgrade to a more complex setup.
  • Samson Q2U: Known for delivering great sound without breaking the bank, this mic has both USB and XLR, plus built-in headphone monitoring for real-time feedback—perfect for cutting out background noise.
  • Shure MV7: Ready to step up your game? The Shure MV7 offers USB and XLR compatibility, along with some great vocal controls. You can even get fancy with the ShurePlus MOTIV app for added vocal processing.
  • Rode PodMic USB: Priced around $199, this dynamic mic is designed specifically for podcasting, with USB and XLR outputs, built-in sound enhancement, and internal shock mounting to keep your recordings clean.

XLR Microphones (For the Pros)

  • Shure SM58: The industry standard for live vocals and podcasts alike, this mic is sturdy and reliable, giving you clear, crisp audio.
  • Shure SM7B: This is the one you’ve seen on all the top podcasts. It’s perfect for creating that warm, intimate vocal sound that’s great for interviews and solocasts.
  • Electro-Voice RE20: A classic mic for broadcasters, it delivers smooth, natural sound and is perfect for close-up vocal work.
  • Rode PodMic: Sleek and reliable, this mic is lightweight and compact but offers rich sound quality. It’s designed to pair with an audio interface for the best results.

Podcast Equipment: Recording Gear

Once you have your mic, you’ll need a way to record.

Digital Recorders (On-the-Go Recording)

  • Zoom H6: This portable powerhouse features four XLR inputs, quiet preamps, and SD card storage. Ideal for recording on the go, the Zoom H6 is a favorite for its ease of use and high-quality recordings.
  • Zoom PodTrak P4: Compact but powerful, the PodTrak P4 includes four mic inputs, headphone outputs, and programmable sound pads. It’s perfect for capturing interviews or solo episodes on the road.
  • Tascam Portacapture X8: For podcasters looking for a newer, cutting-edge recorder, this device has everything you need for multi-person podcasts, anywhere.

Podcast Equipment: Audio Interfaces (For Connecting XLR Mics to Your Computer)

  • Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: A staple in the podcasting world, the Scarlett 2i2 is perfect for converting your XLR mic signal into digital audio that your computer can process. Simple and reliable.
  • Apogee Boom: This small but mighty audio interface is perfect for home podcasters looking for professional-quality sound without too much complexity.
  • Universal Audio UA Volt 2: Offering premium sound quality, this audio interface is great for podcasters who want studio-level performance.

Podcast Equipment: Don’t Forget the Headphones

Trust us—you need headphones when recording. Monitoring your sound ensures you catch any issues before they become a problem in post-production.

  • Sony MDR 7506: These are a staple for many podcasters and audio engineers. They provide excellent sound quality and comfort, making them ideal for long recording sessions.

Editing Software (Digital Audio Workstations)

Once your recording is done, it’s time to edit. Here are some great options:

  • GarageBand (for Mac users) and Audacity (free, cross-platform) are great for beginners. Both provide a simple, yet powerful platform to edit and produce high-quality episodes.

Extra Accessories to Make Your Life Easier

  • Rode PSA1 Microphone Boom Arm: This boom arm keeps your microphone steady and lets you record hands-free.
  • Pop Filter: A simple yet effective tool for reducing harsh plosives and improving sound quality.
  • External SD Cards: Handy for extra storage when recording with digital recorders.

Wrapping It Up

Podcast equipment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right stuff, you can start creating quality content, whether you’re just beginning or leveling up your game. And if you’re planning to buy your gear from the USA, Vyking Ship has you covered. By consolidating all your purchases into one shipment, you can save up to 80% on international shipping costs—making it easier and cheaper to get the best podcast gear without any hassle. Just ship to us and let Vyking Ship take care of the rest!