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… The post Essential Podcasting Gear for 2024: What You Need and What You Don’t – PCI 418 appeared first on Blubrry Podcasting.
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
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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
Like audio, video setups can be simple or elaborate.
Fernando Pires – Founder of Audiosigma
Got a subject you would like us to cover on the show, Drop an email to mike@blubrry.com (audio, text, video), and we may use it. You can also post a question on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.
The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.
Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider
Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at todd@blubrry.com and mike@blubrry.com
Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.
The post Essential Podcasting Gear for 2024: What You Need and What You Don’t – PCI 418 appeared first on Blubrry Podcasting.