Podcasts have grown in popularity in recent years. If you are thinking of starting your own, you may believe it is a complicated and expensive process. While it certainly can be, it is possible to get started with a few essential pieces of equipment.
Creating and broadcasting a podcast is a somewhat straightforward process. In fact, all you need are some headphones, a microphone, and some recording and editing software. Finally, you need a platform on which to publish your podcast.
Over time, you may want to splurge on a few higher-priced items, but you don’t need these to get started. Need proof? Just take a look at Run Gun Shoot and see how easy it is to get started as a podcaster.
Keep reading to learn more about the essential must-have equipment to start a podcast.
A Quality Microphone
Audis is something you don’t want to cut corners with when it comes to your podcast. While your audience will be able to look past some issues when you are first starting out – subpar audio is something that’s unforgivable.
Try to avoid using the mic that is built into your computer. Instead, choose a USB mic that will operate independently from your computer. If you have a little more money to spend, considere a dedicated XLR microphone, which offers better sound control and quality.
Pro Tip: When you speak right into your microphone, it means your “p’s” and “b’s” will sound slightly amplified. It is possible to keep this “popping” from happening by speaking slightly to the side of the mic. However, an even better solution is to use a pop filter.
Recording and Editing Software
You need a way to edit the audio you record. When you are getting started, consider one of the free programs that are available, like Adobe Audition. If you use a Mac, try out GarageBand, which is specifically for Apple users.
Headphones
There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars (or more) on top-of-the-line headphones for your podcast, but you still need to get something that can handle the job. When recording, you need to be able to hear what you say and how you sound.
Also, if you plan to conduct interviews through programs like Skype, you will need to have headphones to hear what your guests are saying.
Pro Tip: Try to avoid using a headphone and mic combo. These usually have subpar quality and will impact the quality of your podcast.
Podcast Hosting Account
You don’t have to worry much about your podcasts eating up too much bandwidth on your website. That’s because you don’t need to host it there.
There are several media hosts available you can use. Soundcloud is one of the most well-known, but there are other options, too. Take some time to get to know what is out there to find the hosting platform that best suits your needs.
ID3 Editor
When you begin using podcast or recording software, it should let you tag the podcasts you create using an ID3 tag. However, if this isn’t possible, all you have to do is use an ID3 editor.
By doing this, you can store important information like the artist featured in the podcast, the title, and the tracking number. This file also ensures your album art shows up if someone downloads it.
Now is a great time to create your own podcast. The fact is, they are more popular than ever before and allow you to share insights or information with others or to provide fun and entertaining content.