Essential Podcasting Gear for 2024: What You Need and What You Don’t – PCI 418

Audiosigma's Podmobile

In today's episode, we take a look at the world of podcasting gear! Covering equipment and podcast setups for those just starting out or those looking to upgrade. Mike and Todd talk about microphones, mixers, and video setups to help you achieve great audio (and video) quality without breaking the bank. Plus, at the end of this episode Mike chats with Fernando Pires, the inventor of Audiosigma products, about some exciting innovations in podcasting tech! Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane, featuring an interview with guest, Fernando Pires Podcasting gear can be expensive or cheap; your choice depends on how you plan to record your audio (or video). It’s much easier to get high-quality audio today than it was back in the day. Microphones The first and most important thing you need as a podcaster is a microphone. Today, there are many options to consider. Here is a list of microphones and approximate cost (lowest to highest) that we recommend:

Samson Q2U / Audio Technica ATR 2100 USB/XLR: $50-80

Can use USB or XLR

RØDE PodMic USB: $199

Can use USB or XLR

Shure MV7+ USB/XLR: $275

Can use USB or XLR

Electrovoice RE320 XLR only: $299

Requires an XLR mixer or interface

Heil PR40 XLR only: $349

Requires an XLR mixer or interface

Shure SM7B XLR only: $399

Requires an XLR mixer or interface Requires a decent pre-amp

Electrovoice RE20 XLR only: $450

Requires an XLR mixer or interface Requires a decent pre-amp

We emphasize not using condenser mics unless you have a professional recording environment. One suggestion to start with, do not use a condenser mic unless you really know what you are doing and have the right recording environment (quiet and soundproofed). And remember, friends don't let friends podcast with a blue yeti. Mixers and Interfaces You can get a USB interface for XLR mics. Just beware that some of the mics listed require quite a bit of pre-amp to drive them. If you are going to record with more than one person in the room or via zoom or something like that, you will want a bit more than just a USB interface.

Choosing the right interface or mixer depends on how many people are involved and your setup.

Focusrite Solo - 1 Microphone XLR to USB

Focusrite also makes 2 mic interfaces and more Good for simple use of XLR mics on the computer with USB Does not work well with high powered mics without an additional pre-amp like the Cloudlifter or Fethead

Mackie (or other) analog mixers

You will need an Analog to USB adaptor to work with a computer VERY flexible with mixing in different sources A lot of wires! A bit of a learning curve but still an excellent option for some users

Rodecaster - all three models. Rodcaster Pro, Rodcaster Pro II and Rodcaster Duo

Full mixer board plus onboard recorder, cart rack, USB interface and more Much simpler to operate Amps are good enough for all mics. No need for an external pre-amp

Zoom PodTrak P4

Very portable Simple to use Up to 4 XLR mics Built-in recorder

MikeHero DSP by AudioSigma

Simple, VERY high quality sound for 1 mic USB interface Works with iPhone, iPad, or computer (likely Android too) Great pre-amp

PodMoble DSP by AudioSigma

Simple, VERY high quality sound for 2 mics Able to string more together if you need more mics at your location USB interface Works with iPhone, iPad, or computer (likely Android too) Great pre-amp

Mike's conversation with Fernando Pires, the inventor of AudioSigma products, dives into his approach to creating simple yet powerful audio solutions for podcasters. Stick around for this insightful discussion at the end of the episode. Video Options for Podcasters: Like audio, video setups can be simple or elaborate.

USB Webcams and Older Camcorders with USB out are budget-friendly options.