Get equipment to start a podcast

1. Purchase a high-quality external microphone, like the Samson Go Mic, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+, the Blue Yeti, or the Blue Snowball.

A more expensive XLR podcast microphone that plugs directly into a mixer could provide even better audio quality, but this isn’t a must and is overkill for most podcasts. Alternatively, use external recorders like the Zoom H1 Handy Recorder. These recorders can be used to record audio to an external device and prevent any data loss if your computer crashes or loses power mid-recording.

2. Download software like Adobe Audition, Audacity, or GarageBand to record, edit, and save audio.

Apps like Anchor, Spreaker, or iRig Recorder work well if you plan on using an iPhone or Android device to create podcasts, or use built-in podcast features offered by podcast hosting services like Podbean or Soundcloud.

3. Purchase software like Zencastr, Ecamm Call Recorder, UberConference, Callnote, or Audio Hijack to record remote interviews.

You won’t need this software if you use a mixer that records all sound from your computer.

4. Purchase a pop filter like the Nady MPF-6 or the Avantone PS-1  to block extra noises your mouth makes when speaking close to the microphone.

5. Consider purchasing a boom arm stand like the Neewer NB-35 to hold your microphone in place, and adjust its height and distance from your mouth.

Boom arm stands hold microphones in place, so you can move around when recording your podcast or keep it out of sight when not recording.

6. Use professional stereo headphones like the Sony ZX Series or the Sony MDR-7506 to monitor audio while recording and listening to it when editing.

Headphones are handy when interviewing guests or listening to audio during your podcast. That is because they avoid echoes from those sounds being picked up by your microphone.