In today’s episode, we take a look at the world of podcasting gear! Covering equipment and podcast setups for those just starting out or those looking to upgrade. Mike and Todd talk about microphones, mixers, and video setups to help you achieve great audio (and video) quality without breaking the bank. Plus, at the end of this episode Mike chats with Fernando Pires, the inventor of Audiosigma products, about some exciting innovations in podcasting tech!

Today’s Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane, featuring an interview with guest, Fernando Pires

Podcasting gear can be expensive or cheap; your choice depends on how you plan to record your audio (or video). It’s much easier to get high-quality audio today than it was back in the day.

Microphones

The first and most important thing you need as a podcaster is a microphone. Today, there are many options to consider. Here is a list of microphones and approximate cost (lowest to highest) that we recommend:

• Samson Q2U / Audio Technica ATR 2100 USB/XLR: $50-80
  • Can use USB or XLR
• RØDE PodMic USB: $199
  • Can use USB or XLR
• Shure MV7+ USB/XLR: $275
  • Can use USB or XLR
• Electrovoice RE320 XLR only: $299
  • Requires an XLR mixer or interface
• Heil PR40 XLR only: $349
  • Requires an XLR mixer or interface
• Shure SM7B XLR only: $399
  • Requires an XLR mixer or interface
  • Requires a decent pre-amp
• Electrovoice RE20 XLR only: $450
  • Requires an XLR mixer or interface
  • Requires a decent pre-amp

We emphasize not using condenser mics unless you have a professional recording environment. One suggestion to start with, do not use a condenser mic unless you really know what you are doing and have the right recording environment (quiet and soundproofed). And remember, friends don’t let friends podcast with a blue yeti.

Mixers and Interfaces

You can get a USB interface for XLR mics. Just beware that some of the mics listed require quite a bit of pre-amp to drive them. If you are going to record with more than one person in the room or via zoom or something like that, you will want a bit more than just a USB interface.

Choosing the right interface or mixer depends on how many people are involved and your setup.

• Focusrite Solo – 1 Microphone XLR to USB
  • Focusrite also makes 2 mic interfaces and more
  • Good for simple use of XLR mics on the computer with USB
  • Does not work well with high powered mics without an additional pre-amp like the Cloudlifter or Fethead
• Mackie (or other) analog mixers
  • You will need an Analog to USB adaptor to work with a computer
    VERY flexible with mixing in different sources
  • A lot of wires!
  • A bit of a learning curve but still an excellent option for some users
• Rodecaster – all three models. Rodcaster Pro, Rodcaster Pro II and Rodcaster Duo
  • Full mixer board plus onboard recorder, cart rack, USB interface and more
  • Much simpler to opera