Get Started Cancel Last Updated April 12, 2022 The Essential Podcast Equipment Checklist for Every Budget by Riverside.fm team . 9 min read Are you looking to create a podcast? Whether you plan to host alone or with co-hosts, you’ll need the right equipment to create a quality show that keeps your listeners coming back for more. Before you invest in equipment, we’ve got all you need to know first. This essential checklist will walk you through the best podcast equipment for every budget, from podcast microphones and shock mounts to podcast recording software. Pro Tip: Make a budget for your podcast kit Before you go and buy expensive podcast equipment, you’ll want to decide on a budget that works for you and your co-hosts. This will make it much easier when deciding which podcast equipment you need. Even if you don’t have a lot to spend upfront, you can still balance cost and quality. Maybe you’ve been in the game for a while and can afford some pricey, high-tech equipment. You may not need to invest so much upfront for a podcast starter kit if you just started. Whichever the case, start with a number that fits your budget. You can always upgrade and buy more as your audience grows. Podcast Setup for 1, 2, 3, 4+ Hosts Are you hosting with other people? Plan before you purchase your podcast equipment. With a two or more person podcast, aim for equipment supporting multiple USB ports. For podcasts with 1, 2, 3+ hosts, we recommend an XLR mic and headphones for each person. The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x headphones are the same for a single host or multiple hosts for a multi-person podcast. Just get 2x, 3x, or 4x, whatever suits your needs. When you record with more than 1 USB, you’ll also need a USB interface or mixer that supports as many XLR mic connections as required. Don’t forget the extra equipment for guests! Microphones First off, you’ll need microphones for each host. When choosing your podcast mic, you’ve two options that determine the sound quality: dynamic or condenser mic. Don’t worry, you don’t need a podcast studio to achieve quality sound. It might be easier for beginners to use a USB microphone; you can connect directly to your computer for beginners just starting. USB microphones connect directly to your computer or any other power source with a USB input, while XLR mics require an external power source. Pyle PDMICR42SL Classic Retro Microphone ($) This dynamic Pyle Classic Retro microphone has a built-in pop filter to reduce popping noises. The unique, retro look makes it stand out from other mics at its price point. It uses an XLR connector. ATR2100-USB ($) The ATR2100-USB is a dynamic, handheld microphone with both a USB and an XLR output. Since this mic plugs directly into your computer, you can use it without recording software. MXL 990 Condenser Microphone ($$) The MXL 990 can produce professional sound quality for digital and analog recordings. This mic has an XLR output. It also comes with a shock mount, included in the price as a bonus. Blue Yeti USB Mic ($$) Blue Yeti has a reputation for its quality products that are affordable and easy to use. This mic is no different, and many podcasters swear by it. (image source: Blue Yeti) Shure MV7 ($$$) The Shure MV7 microphone is for podcasters at all levels. It has both a USB as well as XLR output and it has automatic features to help reduce unwanted background noise when recording. Heil Sound PR 40 Dynamic Cardioid Studio Microphone ($$$) Consider the Heil PR 40 if you’re looking for a complete upgrade for your equipment. Though a little pricey, this stylish mic comes with a microphone arm and a shock mount. Hungry for more information? We wrote a guide to help you choose a podcast microphone. You can also do a quick mic test to check out your equipment. Video Cameras Adding a visual element to your podcast keeps listeners engaged and allows you to produce many types of entertaining content. You can find thousands of options when it comes to podcast cameras; the more you invest, the better quality you’ll get. Kickteck Full HD 1080p ($) New to podcasting? This Kickteck camcorder is an excellent place to start as you can get quality videos and images for a low price. Consider this camcorder if you don’t want to invest much in video equipment upfront. Sony HDR-CX405/B ($$) The Sony HDR-CX405/B camera suits podcasting beginners or those with a moderate experience level. One of the great features of this camera is the record time—it will allow you to record uninterrupted for hours. Nikon COOLPIX B500 ($$$) Consider the Nikon COOLPIX B500 if you’d like to upgrade and spend a little more on your video recording equipment. Panasonic HC-V770 Camcorder The Panasonic HC-V770 is an excellent camera for podcasters looking to live stream because it has WiFi functionalities. Although, it is a bit more of an investment than other basic podcast cameras. (image source: Panasonic) Looking for more information? We wrote a guide covering the best cameras for podcasting. You can also do a quick free webcam test to check your equipment. Lighting Are you using cameras? You’ll need lighting to make sure your listeners can see you (and so that you look great, of course). When looking for essential podcast equipment, a lighting kit isn’t always the most necessary item because you can use natural light or even a simple ring light. Although, a proper lighting kit surely makes a big difference if you’re shooting in a darker environment. Fancierstudio Lighting Kit 2400 Watt Professional Video Lighting Kit ($) This affordable Fancierstudio lighting kit will give you all of the basics you need to get started with your podcast setup. Neewer 2 Packs Dimmable Bi-Color 480 LED Video Light and Stand Lighting Kit ($$) The Neewer lighting kit gives you a range of lighting options using an LED panel that adjusts quickly and suits different lighting needs. GVM RGB LED Video Lighting Kit, 800D Studio Video Lights with APP Control ($$$) You’ll get complete control over how your viewers see you with this GVM kit, which has eight different types of light and APP control. Headphones Up next: Headphones. This essential equipment for podcasters allows you to monitor and adjust the sound quality as you record. You’ll also use them while editing your podcast. You can find great podcast headphones for any budget. Audio-Technica ATH-M30x ($) Great for podcasters just starting, these Audio-Technica headphones give you excellent value for money in that you get comfort and functionality at a low cost. Shure SRH440 ($) Another budget-friendly option, the Shure SRH440 headphones, are well-reviewed and optimized to work with many professional audio devices. Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO ($$) These Beyerdynamic headphones should be at the top of your list if you seek comfort. These versatile headphones connect to the mobile, studio, and other audio devices. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are similar to the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x of the same series. Although, the M50x headphones have an extended frequency range and offer the option to go wireless. (Image source: Audio-Technica) Sennheiser Momentum 3.0 ($$) These Sennheiser headphones are a great investment, whether a beginner or advanced podcaster, with noise-blocking features, wired and Bluetooth options, and long battery life. Sony MDR1AM2/B ($$$) When you’re ready for an upgrade, these lightweight Sony headphones enable you to hear sounds across the entire spectrum that you may miss with lower-quality equipment. Read over our list of the best podcast headphones for more options. This list explains important information to consider, such as the difference between open-back and closed-back headphones. Mixers These are not mandatory for a basic podcast gear setup, but you may want to use a mixer if your show has multiple hosts or guests. Mixers also help when you plan to record different types of audio. When considering a mixer, pay attention to the number of channels it can accept, whether it includes preamps, and its compatibility with other equipment. Behringer Xenyx 802 ($) A great starter piece, this mixer suits new podcasters on a budget. The Behringer Xenyx 802 provides eight inputs with noise-canceling features and two mic preamps. Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 ($$) Allen & Heath has a range of quality mixers, and this mid-level option has features that allow you to identify and eliminate low-frequency noise. This Alien and Heath model also has four USB inputs and four USB outputs, making it a good option if you use a lot of USB equipment. Rode RODECaster Pro ($$$) Specifically designed for podcasters, the Rode RODECaster Pro provides excellent functionality. Ensure that you have a use for all of its features so that you’re not paying for something you don’t need. (Image source: RODE) Consider buying a mixer but not sure if you need one? Read our guide about podcast mixers. Microphone Arm You and your hosts don’t want to hold your microphone during the entire recording session. An arm will prop up your mic. It also prevents extra sound and alternating volume levels from a mic moving around. Try these for your podcast setup: TONOR Studio Suspension Scissor Boom Arm ($) This TONOR mic arm will get the job done for those just starting. It’s adjustable and comes with adapters to work with various microphones and shock mounts. Gator Frameworks Deluxe Desk-Mounted Broadcast Microphone Boom Stand ($$) The Deluxe Frameworks microphone arm adjusts 360 degrees while producing minimal noise. This durable microphone equipment mounts to all sizes of desks and tables. CUIJU Adjustable Microphone Arm ($$$) The CUIJU Adjustable Microphone Arm mounts to any surface or can stand alone with the provided mic stand. It adjusts quickly and locks into place to keep it still while recording. It also comes with a shock mount. Shock Mount The shock mount attaches the microphone to the mic arm. While recording, it holds the microphone steady and prevents unwanted noise in your recording. LyxPro MKS1-B Condenser Spider Microphone Shockmount ($) The LyxPro MKS1-B is designed for condenser mics and has built-in anti-vibration and isolation features to reduce unwanted noise. This shock mount provides excellent value at a low price point. Sabra Som SSM-1 ($$) You can use this adjustable Sabra Som shock mount with any type of microphone, and it fits all mic diameters up to 2″. Rycote 44901 Invision USM ($$$) This is another universal shock mount that works with any type of mic. The unique shape of this Rycote shock mount prevents microphones from recording unwanted noise from mics moving around. Audio Interface An audio interface allows you to connect to other hardware, like your microphone and camera so that different inputs can connect to your computer. While not necessary, it can simplify your recording process. Midiplus Smartface II Audio Interface ($) This Midiplus audio interface works with most computer operating systems and will provide beginners with the basic features needed for podcast setup. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle ($$) Though a little pricey, this Focusrite bundle is a great value because of all of the equipment that you get in addition to the audio interface itself. MOTU 8pre USB ($$$) Best for those looking to upgrade podcast equipment, the MOTU 8pre has as many as 16 inputs. Read our guide about podcast mixers to help you choose between an audio interface and an audio mixer. Portable Digital Recorder Not necessary for the initial podcast setup, a portable digital recorder makes sense if you record audio on the go. ZHKUVE Rechargeable Sound Audio Recorder ($) This ZHKUVE portable recorder plugs directly into a USB port to easily transfer audio files. TASCAM DR-05X Recorder ($$) This TASCAM recorder is easy to use and records audio in high quality MP3 or WAV formats. It can record up to 96 kHz and acn even operate as a USB audio interface. This means it can convert recorded sound into a suitable format for your computer to read. DYW Portable Digital Voice Recorder ($$$) Anyone who plans on doing a lot of on-the-go interviewing should consider investing in this DYW recorder. It’s simple to use and has noise reduction features. Podcast Recording Software Put podcast recording software at the top of your list. The right software can take your show from ehh to great when you record a podcast. When deciding on podcast software, consider how much editing you plan on doing, your experience level with computer software, and as always, how much you want to spend. You can find software for every budget, including some free options. Audacity (Free) Audacity is an excellent choice if you’re new to podcasting. You can sign up for free. However, you won’t get some of the features offered by other podcast software. GarageBand (Free) Ideal for beginners, this free software supports basic edits. You can move different audio segments around in the order you’d prefer. Riverside.fm (Free and paid plans) Riverside.fm is an excellent choice for beginners or advanced users. The software supports both audio and video tracks. You can start with Riverside’s free plan or only pay for what you need as you can choose between multiple subscription options that work for all budgets. Adobe Audition ($) This podcast equipment offers a decent range of control over editing audio. Though it’s packed with great features for the price, this option is recommended for those with experience as it can take a while to learn how to use it. Hindenburg Journalist ($$$) This expensive software suits professional podcasters and radio journalists. Consider investing in this if you already have a well-established show. Pro Tip: Make sure audio sounds clear What do they all have in common when you look at the top shows on Spotify or iTunes? Quality audio. All of them have one thing in common: quality audio. No one wants to sit through a podcast full of background noise, popping sounds, or fuzziness. You can deliver an explicit, professional-sounding podcast using the right recording software. Podcast Hosting Hosting gives your podcast a “home,” a place to store and share your show with listeners. You can find many free and paid services that will host your audio files so that your listeners can download and stream them. Hosting also allows listeners to subscribe, which helps build your audience. Free podcast hosts include Soundcloud and Buzzsprout. Beginners can use these free services and eventually upgrade as needed. Buzzsprout plans range from $12/month to $24/month. Meanwhile, Soundcloud has monthly plans for $4.99/month and $9.99/month. We’ve rounded up the best podcast hosting sites so you can easily choose the podcast hosting platform suited to your needs. Live Streaming If you plan on live streaming your show, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Twitch all provide free live streaming capabilities that you can monetize through sponsorships if your show becomes successful. Live podcasts are a great way to grow your audience. Enable Offline Download Many podcast listeners want to download their favorite shows and listen even when offline. Check with the podcast hosting company you’re considering to make sure they offer this feature. Read our step-by-step guide for easy publishing of your podcast to any directory. Wrap Up The right podcast equipment gives you the tools to launch your show. Start with budget-friendly microphones, headphones, and recording software. You can always upgrade with enhanced tools, like visuals and portable mics, as you grow your audience. Just a little investment can go a long way to making your podcast kit set up a success. Tags: PODCASTING SOFTWARE Riverside.fm team The Riverside.fm team gathers to write up actionable resources to help you start, create, publish, and promote your content. Subscribe to our newsletter Highly curated content, case studies, Riverside updates, and more. Subscribe Related articles Essentials of Video Podcast Equipment Podcast Starter Kit Recommendations for Every Budget & Setup All You Need to Know About Building a Podcast Studio at Home SIGN UP Try Riverside today The next gen podcast and video creation platform for creators. Try for free Company About us Careers Partners Affiliate Program Product Pricing Enterprise Support FAQ Features Mobile App Magic Editor Media Board Clips Resources Blog Case Studies Riverside University Use Cases Podcasts Webinars Customer Testimonials Virtual Conferences Live Show Split-screen video Tools Podcast guides How to Start a Podcast in 2022? 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