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7 Essential Equipment You Need to Start Your Podcast Today

7 Essential Equipment You Need to Start Your Podcast Today

It would be easy to underestimate the earning potential of podcasts. After all, it usually starts as an individual sharing their passion for different things. But the following statistics will have you looking at podcasting in a very different way. 

A 2019 Forbes compilation of the highest-earning podcasters is mind-blowing. Joe Rogan tops the list with an astounding $30 million for that year. My Favorite Murder podcast run by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark saw the duo go home with $15 million. 

The lowest earner on the list was Bill Simmons at $7 million. Cumulatively, five podcasters managed to rake in $70 million.   

Here is the good news, the podcasting pie is enormous. With the right content, good understanding of your audiences and equipment, you could very well land on the Forbes list soon.  

We understand that looking for the right podcasting equipment can be difficult, especially for beginners. Our list below will start you off on the right path. Here are 7 essential pieces of equipment you need to start your podcast today. 

 A Computer or Smartphone  

A computer gives you a digital audio workstation to produce the shows. It allows you to capture audio, edit and export your content. 


You have the option of using a desktop, laptop, or smartphone. You don't need to spend money buying a new one. The one you have can work fine. Just ensure that it has sufficient memory, USB port options, and a powerful processor.  

It is possible to use a smartphone to do the recording.  Download the relevant podcasting app to make the job easier.  

It is also a good idea to invest in memory storage devices. Every time you record a podcast, you use up a lot of internal memory. Eventually, it will impact the speed of your computer or laptop. External hard drives are a safe way to keep raw files or those you no longer use.  

Relevant Software and Hosting Platform 

When looking for software, you can take advantage of the free programs as you sharpen your skills. Such include Adobe Audition, Audacity, Powersound Editor, and GarageBand. The latter comes as a feature in Mac computers.   

You need to get your podcast out into the market. Consider which hosting platform you want to use for maximum reach. You have options such as YouTube, iTunes, SoundCloud, and so much more.  It helps to have a good understanding of where your target audiences are.  

Microphone, Stand, and Shock Mount 

Consider investing in podcasting microphones instead of using the one that comes as a built-in feature of your computer. A computer microphone will pick up ambient or background sounds. The result of using a built-in microphone is a noisy output that can interfere with the listening experience. 

Extra microphones are essential for when you have guests during the podcasts. The right microphone determines the sound quality and will save you time during post-production editing. Audiences will not appreciate the poor sound, so consider it an investment to buy the right one. 

A microphone stand helps you set up and position your microphone. It makes it more comfortable for you because you do not need to hold the mic. You can also maintain the correct posture without needing to bend forward or downwards to speak into the mic. 

Your budget will determine the type of stand you buy. Those with bendable arms are convenient to use and will free up the desk space. Some microphones also come with stands which saves you from having to purchase them separately.    

If you can afford it, consider buying a shock mount. You may have guests who express themselves with a lot of gestures and movements. They may move the mic or even slam the table for emphasis resulting in vibrations or other noises. 

Depending on the sensitivity levels of the microphone, it can pick up some of the noise.  A shock mount absorbs the vibrations resulting in a cleaner sound.  

Headphones 

When you're starting your podcast, you don't need to invest in expensive headphones. Fortunately, there are tons of options available that will fit any budget. You probably own a pair of headphones already, so you can use those. 

But if you must buy, focus on sound quality. It will give you a good idea of what you will be putting out there.   

Audio Interface

Start your podcast with a small, affordable audio interface.  It serves the purpose of converting the audio signals from the microphone into digital format. The interface allows for mixing, playback, and uploading. 

You have the option of using the computer sound card to convert the audio. However, you will not get the same quality as you would when using an audio interface. Look for an audio interface with multiple inputs and output channels. 

It will allow you to record from many instruments or microphones. You also get additional functionality like avoiding delays or interference when recording.  

Mixer

Mixers provide a lot of functionality if you have guests or co-hosts. They help improve sound quality. You can also record and add different elements like music and sound while doing the interview.  

Most importantly, a mixer gives you control of outputs, inputs, and levels. In the end, you save a lot of time in the post-production processes. 

Digital audio recorder

You may not always carry out your interviews within a studio setting. Sometimes you may need to go to the source of the story. In this case, it helps to have a digital audio recorder with a powerful external microphone. 

But, the recorder is not a must-have item if you have a smartphone that captures high-quality audio.  

Final thoughts

We have looked at seven essential pieces of equipment to start a podcast. Take advantage of what you already have to save money. Such include a laptop, headphones, and even external hard drives. 

When shopping, take the time to do your research. Read customer reviews on the different brands so that you get your money's worth. 

Good luck with your podcast!

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