Technical Equipment Needed to Start a Podcast
By Scott Gilchrist – 11th May 2020
With podcasting on the rise in recent years and more so in 2020 , It is important to get the right equipment for the job. But with so many options, where do you start?
Microphone
Generally the in-built laptop and computer microphones should be avoided, instead it is suggested that you look for a microphone that connects via USB to your computer.
The Blue Yeti is a good entry level microphone.
Audio Technica also make a USB Microphone, the AT2020
https://www.ple.com.au/Products/615265/Audio-Technica-AT2020-USB-Desktop-Microphone?gclid=CjwKCAjwqdn1BRBREiwAEbZcR54DqXzXVbmX9g8dmmM5woDtHgKkAcS3oTCSm0EAC3ue11F9rnoKbRoC9rUQAvD_BwE
Headphones
While it isn’t necessary to have the best in-market headphones, It’s worth getting a decent quality pair so you can hear yourself as well as the person you’re recording with (if co-hosting)
Apple Earpods are great for a first option. Though if you want to take podcasting seriously, the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro are a great set.
https://www.storedj.com.au/beyerdynamic-dt990-pro-open-studio-headphones-250ohms
AKG also make high-end products if you are willing to spend the extra money.
https://www.storedj.com.au/akg-k702-reference-studio-headphones
Recording and editing software
Recording software is required next, to convert your ideas into an audio medium.
Audacity is a free audio editing software. It is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
https://www.audacityteam.org/
Adobe Audition is a professional grade audio editing software. With paid subscription based packages.
https://www.adobe.com/au/products/audition.html
If you have a Mac, GarageBand is preinstalled and has the same simple functions as Audacity.
https://www.apple.com/au/mac/garageband/
Hosting Account
Now you’ve recorded your podcast, how do you distribute it?
Whooshkaa – This podcasting service is used widely by radio professionals as well as podcasters in their own right. There are several “tiers” of free and paid options depending on your budget.
https://www.whooshkaa.com/
Podbean – Podbean also has a few tiered options, also offering analytics and user engagement per episode.
https://www.podbean.com/
Soundcloud – Soundcloud primarily hosts demo tapes and songs from artists, but can be used as a podcasting platform if done the right way. It has a free option as well as a Pro monthly subscription.
https://soundcloud.com/discover
