So, you’ve got something to say, and you’re considering diving into the exciting world of podcasting? Awesome choice. There’s never been a better time to start, with content so readily consumed on a multitude of platforms. Today, podcasts are proving increasingly popular, providing a peek behind the curtain into all manner of industries.
There are podcasts from comedians like Josh Widdacombe and Rob Beckett which aim to provide a relatable insight into parenthood; podcasts from football pundits and analysts, such as Not The Top 20 (NTT20) and The Second Tier Podcast, who comb through the data to provide nuggets of insight for enthusiasts; and podcasts providing an insight into the world of poker. PokerNews has its podcast which explores the biggest headlines in the game while providing plenty of educational content for those keen to learn about poker for the first time.
But before you hit that record button and let your thoughts soar through the airwaves, let’s talk about the gear. You’ll be pleased to know you don’t need a fancy studio to get started, but there are a few integral pieces of equipment you’ll need to get cracking with your podcasting journey.
The Microphone Situation
First things first, you need a microphone that captures your voice with the utmost clarity. USB microphones are a good starting point for real beginners. Brands like Blue Yeti and Audio-Technica’s ART2100x-USB offer quality sound without breaking the bank. If you’re feeling bougie, you might prefer diving straight in for an XLR microphone like the Shure SM7B, which is a hit among many pro podcasters.
Closed-back Headphones
Never underestimate the power of first-rate headphones. They can help you to pinpoint any interference or background noise that can spoil the listening experience. Closed-back headphones are best for isolating your audio. It’s not worth scrimping either, so the likes of Sony, Sennheiser, and Audio-Technica are solid shouts.
Pop Filter To Improve The Clarity Of Your Audio
Combine your microphone and closed-back headphones with a pop filter to wave goodbye to any annoying plosive sounds that can also ruin the listening experience. Think of a pop filter like a superhero shield for your microphone – it softens any harsh consonants and maintains a smoothness to your audio recordings.
Mic Stands And Shock Mounts
For the utmost comfort and reliability, it’s best to think about a stand for your microphone. It enables you to run your podcast hands-free and focus on delivering your podcasting brilliance. Shock mounts are also useful gadgets that can limit vibrations and handling noise. Attach it to your mic stand and it will cradle your microphone, keeping those unwanted sounds at bay. Trust us, your listeners will thank you for it!
Podcast Recording And Editing Software
Once you’ve got all your hardware in place, you’ll also need software to hit that all-important record button. Audacity is a popular free podcast software and is very user-friendly for first-time producers. If you’re ready to flex some podcasting muscle, Adobe Audition and MacOS’ GarageBand are well-suited, boasting a string of advanced recording and production features.
Remember – the key to a great podcast isn’t just the gear, it’s your passion, personality, and the stories you wish to share. Let your podcasting adventures begin!
Featured image created by DALL-E, an AI by OpenAI, based on specifications provided by Mikeshouts.com.
