What Is Needed to Record a Podcast: Essential Tools

Did you know that in 2024, over 130 million Americans listened to podcasts every month? That's a whole lot of people!  

With podcasting's explosive growth and increasing accessibility, more and more people are diving into this exciting medium. Perhaps you too are considering starting a podcast. 

But before you hit that record button, it's crucial to have the right equipment and setup. In this quick guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about what is needed to record a podcast, from microphones to software to creating the perfect recording environment. 

Essential Recording Equipment for Podcasters

Here’s our bare bones list of equipment to get started with podcast recording right away:

– Microphone

– Headphones

– A computer and podcast recording software

Choosing the Right Microphone

When it comes to podcasting, your microphone is your most important tool. There are several types of microphones to choose from, including USB, XLR, dynamic, and condenser mics. 

USB mics are great for beginners as they plug directly into your computer, while XLR mics require an audio interface but offer more flexibility and higher quality. Dynamic mics are excellent for rejecting background noise, while condenser mics are more sensitive and better suited for quiet studio environments. 

When selecting a podcast microphone, look for key features like good off-axis rejection, low self-noise, and a cardioid polar pattern. Budget is also a consideration.  

Here are three podcast microphones that you may want to consider:

- Entry-level (~$50-100): Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB or the Samson Q2U

- Mid-range (~$100-300): Shure MV7

- High-end (~$300+): Shure SM7B or the Electro-Voice RE20

Proper mic technique is also essential.  

For best result, position your mic about six to eight inches from your mouth and use a pop filter to reduce plosives. Listen to the difference proper mic technique can make:

Headphones and Monitoring

Quality headphones are essential for monitoring your audio during recording and editing. Over-ear, closed-back headphones like the Sony MDR-7506 or Audio-Technica ATH-M20x both provide good isolation and prevent audio leakage into the microphone. 

When setting up your monitoring system, make sure you can hear yourself and your guests clearly without any feedback or echoes. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level and keep a backup pair of headphones on hand.

Podcast Recording Software

For beginners, Audacity is a popular free option with basic recording and editing features. GarageBand (free for Mac) and Hindenburg Journalist (paid) are also great choices with intuitive interfaces. 

For advanced users, Adobe Audition and Reaper offer powerful features like multi-track recording, noise reduction, and plugin support. Many programs offer free trials, so test a few options before committing.

Wait! Can't I Just Record My Podcast on My Phone?

Yes, you absolutely can start recording your podcast with just your phone! Most smartphones have decent built-in mics and free recording apps like Voice Memos, Voice Recorder, or even podcast recording software like Riverside.fm. This is a great way to dip your toes into podcasting without investing in podcast equipment right away.

However, there are a few tradeoffs to keep in mind. Phone mics are designed for close-range voice recording and tend to pick up more room noise than a dedicated podcast usb microphone or XLR microphone.

You'll also have less control over the recording settings and won't be able to connect professional accessories like a pop filter or boom arm.

As a result, you may need to spend more time with podcast editing to reduce background noise, remove awkward pauses, and balance levels for your listeners. It's also worth noting that podcast editing in GarageBand, Audacity, and other platforms is much easier on a desktop/laptop.

But don't let that discourage you - many successful podcasts started life as simple phone recordings! Once you've gotten the hang of the basics, you can always upgrade to a proper mic and recording setup. The most important thing is to get started and keep improving as you go.

Creating an Optimal Recording Environment

Once you have the bare essentials for recording, it’s time to get your room podcast ready. After all, having an optimal recording setup will save you lots of time in the podcast editing phase. 

Room Acoustics and Treatment for Your Podcast

The space where you record can greatly impact your audio quality. Hard surfaces like walls and floors create unwanted echoes, while outside noise can ruin a recording. Acoustic treatment helps absorb sound and minimize reflections. 

DIY treatment options include hanging blankets, using a closet or small room, and placing furniture to break up reflections. Professional options like acoustic panels, bass traps, and diffusers provide even better results. 

When positioning your mic, aim for the center of the room and avoid corners. Experiment to find the ideal setup for your space.

Purchase These Essential Accessories

-   Pop filter: Reduces plosives and protects your mic

-   Shock mount: Isolates mic from vibrations and rumble

-   Boom arm: Allows flexible positioning and keeps mic off desk

-   Cable management: Keeps your setup organized with ties, clips, or snakes

-   Storage: Sturdy case or bag to protect equipment 

Admittedly, you can get away without these things. However, as soon as you can, you might want to invest in these accessories to produce a better podcast sound.

Remote Recording Considerations

If you’re going to be interviewing guests remotely, there are tools that are pretty much par for the course in podcast recording – internet connection, and remote recording software. 

Internet Connection and Backup

A stable internet connection is crucial for remote recording. Aim for a minimum upload speed of 5 Mbps and use a wired Ethernet connection if possible. Always have a backup recording method like a local recorder or secondary computer.

Remote Recording Software

Riverside.fm and Squadcast.fm are two of the top choices for high-quality remote recording and editing software. They record each participant locally for better audio quality and have built-in backup features. 

A more advanced paid option is Cleanfeed which helps eliminate background noise as you record to create a clean audio file. You’ll need to integrate with Zoom if you plan to record videos remotely, however. 

Speaking of Zoom… many people like Zoom because it offers a free option. Zoom is pretty easy to use, and it gives you decent audio and video quality. The catch with the free version is that you are limited to 40 minutes and local recording. You’ll need to upgrade to paid for backup cloud recording. 

Pro Tip: Whatever software you use to record remotely, be sure to record each participant on a separate track.

We’ll also add that it’s important to test your setup before each session and communicate any technical requirements to your guests beforehand.

Related: Read our 40 expert tips for how to record a podcast.

Advanced Podcast Tools

As you move through your podcasting journey, at some point you might want to upgrade your setup. That’s where these advanced tools come in.

Audio Interface and Mixers

If you're using an XLR microphone, you'll need an audio interface to connect it to your computer. Look for an interface with at least one XLR input, phantom power (if using a condenser mic), and a headphone output for monitoring. 

Some popular options include: 

- Focusrite Scarlett Solo

- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

- Behringer U-Phoria UM2

For more advanced podcast hosting setups, a mixer like the Rodecaster Pro or Zoom PodTrak P4 allows you to connect multiple mics, add sound effects, and live stream.

Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)

For complex podcast production with music and sound effects, a digital audio workstation (DAW) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live may be worth the learning curve. However, they're overkill for most podcasting needs. And, as AI in podcast editing and recording becomes more prevalent, we suspect the need for a digital audio workstation will actually diminish for podcasters.

Pre-Recording Checklist

Armed with your podcast equipment, it’s time to get recording already. Here are some things you should do for every recording session: 

-   Test USB microphone/XLR microphone levels and adjust gain

-   Verify headphone monitoring and volume

-   Check recording software settings

-   Organize files and folders

-   Set up backup recording method

-   Communicate with guests and provide instructions

-   Do a test recording and check for any issues

Also see how to maximize your podcast's reach in post production.

Best Practices and Common Mistakes

Here are some best practices to consider, and common mistakes podcasters should avoid when podcast recording:

-   Monitor levels closely and make adjustments as needed

-   Take breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain energy

-   Use descriptive file names with timestamps

-   Backup files automatically with cloud storage or external drives

-   Avoid recording near noise sources like fans, fridges, or outside windows

-   Don't forget to hit record and turn on your microphone 

-   Always do a test recording before the actual session (Nothing worse than muted audio files)

Final Thoughts on What Is Needed to Record a Podcast

We've covered a lot of ground in this guide, from essential equipment to software to recording best practices. But at the end of the day, remember that the most important thing is to just start creating. Don't get too bogged down in gear and technical details - the best way to improve is through practice and experimentation. 

As you grow and evolve as a podcaster, you can always upgrade your equipment and refine your setup. But the key is to start with what you have and focus on delivering value to your listeners. With the right tools and mindset, you'll be well on your way to creating a successful and impactful podcast. 

So what are you waiting for? Grab that mic, fire up your software, and start recording! Then, all you need is some podcast hosting, and you're off to the races! Your voice and message are worth sharing with the world. 

And, once you've recorded your podcast, use Castmagic to draft your keyword optimized titles and episode descriptions, write show notes, promotional emails and more. Click here to get started free! 

Additional Resources

– Podcasting 101: How to Start and Succeed in the Audio Sphere

– How to Craft a Podcast Outline: Expert Advice

– Podcast Script: Tips for Writing Engaging and Effective Episodes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best microphone for podcasting?

A: There's no single "best mic", but the Shure SM7B, Electro-Voice RE20, and Heil PR-40 are popular choices among professionals. For beginners, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x, Samson Q2U, and Shure MV7 provide excellent value. 

Q: How do I record a podcast remotely?

A: Use software like Riverside.fm or Squadcast.fm to record each person locally for the best quality. For a free option, Zoom can work in a pinch. Just be sure to use a headset mic, record separate tracks, and have everyone record a backup locally. 

Q: Do I need to soundproof my room?

A: It's not always necessary to fully soundproof your podcast recording room to achieve high quality audio files. However, treating your room with acoustic panels, blankets, or furniture helps reduce echoes and reflections. The goal is to minimize the effect of the room on your recordings as cost-effectively as possible. 

Q: How much does it cost to start a podcast?

A: You can get started for under $100 with a USB mic and free recording software. However, investing in quality podcast recording equipment and software up front will make your life easier and your podcast sound more professional. Expect to spend $500-1000 for a solid starter setup. 

Q: Do I need expensive equipment to sound professional?

A: While high-end gear certainly helps, the most important factors are your content, mic technique, and recording environment. Many affordable options like the Samson Q2U provide 90% of the quality at a fraction of the cost of pro gear. Focus on those key factors first, then upgrade as your podcast grows.