With a huge number of people both consuming and creating content from home, and the continued growth of online communities and social media, there's never been a better time to start a podcast. There's a growing appetite for fresh takes on familiar topics — from sports and books to movies and politics.
Once you've decided to start a podcast and sorted out a basic script for your first episode, it can be tempting to just hit record on your computer. To make sure you have the right gear to create engaging, high-quality content from day one, here are three essential pieces of equipment you'll need.
1. A Good Quality Microphone
Our top tip for starting a podcast? Invest in a good microphone. Clear, crisp audio ensures your audience understands what you're saying and keeps them coming back for more. The built-in mic on your computer simply won't cut it.
The best microphones for podcasting are typically USB microphones — they plug directly into your computer with no additional hardware required. As you progress, an XLR microphone paired with a separate mixer can take your sound quality to the next level.
If you're recording in quiet conditions, a condenser microphone is your best bet. If you have multiple speakers or some background noise to contend with, a dynamic microphone will keep your audio clean and focused.
Top tip: Have co-hosts or a guest? For best results, each person will need their own microphone.
Ted's Recommends:
- Boya BY-M100UC Smartphone Microphone USB-C — The best budget-friendly option. Plug-and-play design, no mounting equipment or extra accessories required. Compact at just 3 inches with a 180-degree rotation for optimal positioning.
- Rode NT-USB+ USB Condenser Microphone — One of the most versatile USB microphones available, suitable for podcasting, vlogging, and music recording. Low noise, high-gain output, and compatible with computers and mobile devices.
- Rode Podcaster USB Broadcast Microphone — For professional-grade projects. A dynamic, end-address USB microphone delivering broadcast-quality audio straight to your computer — no audio interface needed. 18-bit resolution and 48kHz sampling for pristine sound.
2. Decent Headphones
Once you've hit record, you'll need a way to monitor your audio in real time. If you've never used a microphone before, you may be surprised at how much background noise they pick up and how significantly environmental factors can affect your recordings.
The best headphones for podcasting don't need to be top-of-the-line, but the earbuds that came with your phone won't do the job. Go for a pair of closed-back headphones with a neutral sound profile — not too heavy on bass or treble. This prevents sound leaking from your headphones into your microphone, avoiding an annoying echo effect.
Ted's Recommends:
- Rode NTH-100 Professional Over-Ear Headphones — An excellent entry-level option for podcasting, mixing, and recording. Comfortable, accurate, and built to a professional standard.
- Rode NTH-100M Broadcast Headphones — Expands on the NTH-100 with a built-in broadcast-quality condenser microphone. Closed-back earcups with memory foam, dynamic drivers, and precise acoustic construction — ideal for voiceover work and podcasting.
3. Audio Editing Software
No matter how smooth a talker you are, your raw recordings will need editing. Thankfully, you don't need to be a professional — most basic audio editing software will do the job perfectly well.
Mac users can start with GarageBand, which comes pre-installed on all Apple computers. Both Mac and Windows users can also get great results with Audacity, a free and capable audio editor.
A few editing basics to master:
- Trimming files to remove awkward silences and pauses
- Adjusting volume levels for consistency across your recording
- Merging recordings to weave together a finished episode from multiple takes
- Using transitions to move smoothly between segments
Once you've nailed the basics, you might consider graduating to more advanced paid software like Adobe Audition or Apple Logic Pro.
Bring Your Podcast Ideas to Life
Starting a podcast is an exciting creative project that can bring real fulfilment and help you build new skills. With the right equipment and a bit of preparation, you can start recording great episodes and building an audience in no time.
Looking for more content creation tips? Discover more advice on the Ted's Cameras blog, or visit your nearest store to talk through your setup with our team.