Ultimate Podcast Equipment Setup Checklist

So you want to start a podcast? That’s awesome! Podcasting is a fantastic way to share your voice, ideas, stories, and expertise with the world. But before you can hit record and start building an audience, you’ll need to invest in some essential podcasting equipment.

Don’t worry though, you don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy gear to record a high-quality, professional-sounding show. With some smart purchases and a few simple recording tips, newbies can sound like seasoned podcasting pros right out of the gate.

To help you get started on the right foot, we’ve put together this ultimate checklist of the best podcast equipment for beginners. Follow along and you’ll have an awesome recording setup in no time!

Microphone

A good microphone is truly the most critical piece of podcast equipment you’ll need. It will have the biggest impact on your overall audio quality. For beginners, I highly recommend starting with either:

USB Podcast Mic: Easy to use and affordable, USB mics like the Samson Q2U plug right into your computer and are ready to record out of the box.

XLR Mic + Audio Interface: If you’re looking to level up your sound, get an XLR mic like the Audio-Technica AT2020 and pair it with a simple audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo.

Headphones

While not strictly required, using headphones while recording will allow you to properly monitor audio levels and hear if anything is clipping or distorting. A decent pair of over-ear, closed-back headphones will more than suffice, like the Status Audio CB-1s (no, we are not getting paid to show these some love, they are just good headphones). 

Pop Filter

Pop filters help eliminate plosive “p” and harsh “b” sounds from ruining your recordings with disruptive pops and bursts of air on the mic. Simple nylon filters that mount to your mic stand work great and only cost around $10.

Mic Stand

You’ll need something sturdy to hold and position your microphone at an optimal height and distance from your mouth while recording. A basic desk mic stand or boom arm mounted to your desk or table will do the job nicely.

Recording Software

To capture and edit your podcast audio, you’ll need recording and editing software like:

• Audacity (Free)
• GarageBand (Included free with Macs)
• Adobe Audition (Paid)

Acoustic Panels

If you’re recording in an untreated room with hard surfaces that cause echoes and reverb, installing some basic acoustic foam panels on the wall behind you and to your sides can make a world of difference for the sound quality.

Podcast Backdrop

Many podcasters like to record not just their voices, but also themselves. Podcasters will post their podcasts on YouTube or have guest appearances where they might do a Zoom conference with their guest. In these instances, you will want to have a professional-looking video call backdrop like the Anyvoo Voodrop. You can even put your podcast’s name or logo on the backdrop to really elevate your brand! 

Setting Up Your Podcast Studio

Now that you have the essential podcast equipment covered, let’s talk about setting up your recording space to capture clean, professional-sounding audio every time.

First, find a quiet room away from outside noises if possible. Walk-in closets make great cheap vocal booths! Then arrange your gear:

Place your mic stand right in front of you at a 45-degree angle so you’re not blasting directly into the capsule. Position the mic about 6-8 inches from your mouth.

Line up your backdrop 3-4 feet behind you, or whichever distance lines up perfectly with your webcam.

Set up your pop filter a couple inches in front of the mic.

Place your headphones on your head, not around your neck where they can rub on your clothes and create rustling noise.

Open your recording software like GarageBand and do a test recording, checking levels and listening for any buzzes, hums or other audio interference.

Start making your podcast and let the great content flow! It may take some tweaking to get your sound just right, but with the best basic equipment and a properly set up recording space, you’re well on your way to podcasting stardom!