Podcasts are certainly having their moment in the sun. The number of people who listen to podcasts has grown by about 38% since 2017. That means a whopping 40% of all Americans aged 12 or older are listening to the broadcast format. And with more than 1.75 million active podcasts offering over 48 million episodes, it’s clear that podcasts allow anyone to tell their story.
Whether you’re a history buff, music enthusiast or are just looking to broaden your general knowledge, there’s an audience for your show. To get started, though, you’ll need a few essential pieces of podcast equipment.
1. A laptop
This may seem like a bit of an obvious podcast equipment. However, you’ll need something to record and store your show. Ensure that your processor is up to the task of running the recording. As well as editing software that you’ll be using. Importantly, that it has enough space to store all of your raw recordings, interviews and other tracks.
2. A good microphone
There’s one place that you want to splurge when it comes to your podcast setup. That it’s your microphone as a podcast equipment. While there are plenty of problems that your listeners will likely be able to overlook. Poor audio quality is not one of them. Avoid the microphone that’s built into your computer or smart phone. More, opt for a dynamic mic that connects to your computer via USB.
Pop filters (which prevent your Bs and Ps from sounding too harsh) as well as booms or stands (so that you don’t have to hold your mic) are great additions to your microphone package.
3. Sound dampening equipment
While a fully sound-proof recording studio would be the ideal place to record your show, that option is likely out of reach for many fledgling podcasts. Luckily, there are various pieces of soundproofing material that can raise the quality of your cast for relatively little capital outlay. Consider stick-on acoustic panels, which can be bought from many major online retailers and will adhere to a variety of surfaces, as well as a microphone sound isolation shield.
4. Solid headphones
Although they’re an important tool, as a podcast equipment. Your headphones needn’t be top of the line. It’s best to opt for an on- or over-ear sound-cancelling pair, as this will block out ambient noise and mean you’re able to hear yourself and your guests without issue when you’re recording. Plus, you’ll likely be wearing them for long stretches while recording, so they’ll need to be comfortable.
5. A mixer
Many might say that a mixer is a ‘nice to have’, but for all the benefits it brings, we’d recommend getting one. These handy pieces of podcast equipment give you increased control and flexibility over your recordings and cut down on editing time – a bonus if podcasting isn’t your only gig.
6. Recording and editing software
This is one area where you’ll be spoilt for choice. With hundreds of free options that turn your laptop into a full-on recording studio, the best option is the one you find easiest to use. Many podcasters recommend Gargeband, which comes preinstalled on Macs, Audacity and Adobe Audition for their excellent post-production powers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to podcasting to looking to up your broadcasting game, these items will help you to produce high-quality podcasts that will get listeners subscribing to your show.
