In fact, you probably already have some of the equipment needed to create a podcast.
Reaching your audience, however, is a bit more difficult.
Basic Microphones
To get your voice into your gear for recording, you need a microphone.
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However, the better the quality, the more professional your audio sounds.
No one will listen to your podcasts if the audio is inferior.
Consider upgrading from the microphone and headset you’ve been using for Skype.
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USB microphones are designed to work easily with computers.
Most of them are plug and play.
It’s the easiest way to get started and is sufficient for most single-person podcasts.
These require an audio interface or mixer, which gives you more control over your recording.
Some microphones offer both USB and XLR connections.
There are two types of microphones: dynamic and condenser.
Dynamic microphones are robust with less feedback, which is good if you aren’t in a soundproof studio.
They are less expensive than condenser microphones, but that benefit comes with a poorer dynamic range.
Condenser microphones are more expensive and more sensitive with a higher dynamic range.
Microphones have sound pickup patterns that are either omnidirectional, bidirectional, or cardioid.
These terms refer to the area of the microphone that picks up the sound.
If it’s crucial that you share a microphone with a co-host, bidirectional is the way to go.
You just pick one for your needs.
Mixers
If you choose an XLR microphone, you need a mixer to go with it.
They come in all price ranges and with different numbers of channels.
You need a channel for each microphone you use with the mixer.
Look into mixers from Behringer, Mackie, and the Focusrite Scarlett series.
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Headphones
Headphones allow you to monitor the sound as it’s recorded.
Stay away from soft-shell headphonesthose that only have foam on the outside.
These do not suppress sound, which may cause feedback.
You don’t have to spend a lot on headphones, but cheap ones give you cheap sound.
There’s no reason to run out and buy anything right away.
Work with the computer you have.
If it works, great.
Recording and Mixing Software
A podcast can feature only your voice.
However, some people use a prerecorded show intro with occasional inserted pieces of audio, possibly even commercials.
Free software tools make recording and editing fairly easy.
Recording audio is one thing; mixing audio is a bit more involved.
Mixing in real time captures a certain spontaneity.
Mixing your audio as a static project allows you more time to make your finished product polished and professional.
You need software for recording and editing your podcast.
Conduct interviews over Skype with a recording plugin.
After you have experience or when your podcast takes off, you’re able to upgrade the software.
Podcasts are usually large files, so you need a good broadband connection.
Optional Accessories
Pick up a pop-filter, particularly if your microphone is on the inexpensive side.
It does wonders for the sound you record.
You may also want a portable recorder for on-the-go interviews.
