Are you looking for a new way to spread your message, engage with an audience and share your story? Podcasting is becoming increasingly popular as more people turn to this medium for entertainment, education and inspiration. Whether you’re podcasting about politics, lifestyle or tech, podcasting gives everyone the opportunity to speak their mind and reach out to new audiences.
Creating a podcast can seem like an intimidating task but it doesn’t have to be! In this blog post we will provide readers with all the information they need in order to set up their own podcasting studio.
So let’s get started!
The Compact Podcast Studio
A computer or tablet is the centerpiece of an effective podcast studio. To ensure high-quality audio recordings, however, it’s also important to have good microphones and other sound equipment like mixers and special effects for speech. With a comprehensive “podcast compact” setup in your home studio you can connect various devices from computers to phones via wireless networks plus assign pads so you can add sound effects–from traditional applause sounds to custom signatures that are uniquely yours!
If you’re looking for multi-functional digital devices with a fantastic array of features and an attractive price, then the Zoom Podtrak P8, Tascam Mixcast 4 and my favorite – the Rode Rodecaster Pro II are undeniably great options. The latter is perfect if you need industry-level capability at your fingertips!
The Microphones
Professional podcasters know that the quality of your voice recording is essential to producing an excellent podcast. The iconic Shure SM7B microphone ensures a crisp, rich sound right off the bat — it’s almost like hearing yourself on radio! Thanks to built-in filters and pop noise reduction capabilities, you can achieve maximum vocal clarity with minimal effort.
Shure offers a more affordable and streamlined experience with the introduction of their MV7X model. It provides users with an economical way to enjoy classic Shure sound quality without sacrificing features or performance.
Universal Audio, a leader in sonic creativity and innovation thanks to its analog devices and legendary audio interfaces, now offers two new quality microphones. The Universal Audio SD-1 is perfect for podcasters looking for professional results without breaking the bank; if you’re just starting out however, consider investing in t.bone BC 500’s similar design – great sound at an affordable price.
Microphone Arm / Table stand
For optimal sound quality while podcasting, ensure your microphone isn’t hand-held. Too much background noise can otherwise be transmitted. To maintain stability, a tripod or mic arm is highly recommended – such as the cost-effective K&M 23320 table stand which boasts a secure round base to keep your mic in place for reliable recording every time!
Boom microphones are the ideal solution for podcasting, as they can be suspended overhead to provide greater freedom and flexibility in your setup. This will give you extra space on your tabletop – perfect for operating keyboards, mouses and compact studios with ease. Additionally, these higher-mounted mics offer an acoustic advantage over their placed counterparts! Adjustable boom arms also allow precise positioning that perfectly captures audio of all kinds while allowing users to quickly move it out of sight if desired – revealing a clear shot at any screen when required or necessary!
Rode’s PSA1+ stands as a top-of-the line choice for holding and seamless set up of heavier microphones. Those looking to save can choose between Millenium DS200 or Roadworx Microphone Arm, both offering equal convenience while keeping costs low.
Alternative: USB microphone
If you’re looking for a much easier and cost-effective option, a convenient option is the USB microphone. Using just one cable to connect directly to computers or mobile devices, it’s an efficient way to get started without needing much tech know-how. If that sounds like what you need in your setup, Shure has got you covered with their MV7X Podcast Kit – complete with tabletop tripod and mike for easy audio capture!
USB microphones offer a unique recording experience – the condenser capsule allows for rich and detailed sound, bringing out every nuance. Popular models from Rode such as the NT USB and NT USB Mini boast this feature, while those looking for budget-friendly options should consider t.bone’s SC 420 Desktop Set to add a professional studio look with pop protection at an economical price point.
Headphones for your studio
To make sure what you capture is exactly how it sounds, closed headphones should always be used when podcasting – open earbuds or speakers allow sound to enter your microphone and create feedback issues down the line. Invest in a good set of closed-back cans so you have crystal clear audio with no unwelcome surprises!
The Sennheiser HD 25 Plus is the go-to choice for many sound engineers, DJs and hi-fi fanatics. If you’re looking to take your podcast game up a notch then check out the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro or AKG K371 – both of which have impressive audio capabilities. For those who are all about that wireless life, Audio Technica’s ATH M50 XBT2 lets you stream tunes in superb quality via Bluetooth connectivity!
Software
Mixing your Podcast show is the last time you need to take before publishing it on the internet. There are many free options in the market for digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) – even the famous Pro Tools has a decent free version to get you started. But if you’re operating on budget, smaller editions of renowned DAWs are available for less than their more extensive counterparts without sacrificing quality or the range of features needed for professional-sounding podcasts. Studio One 6 Artist from Presonus and Cubase Elements 12 from Steinberg will give you all the tools necessary to create expertly edited, mixed and effects-laden casts!
Podcasting is a great way to share your voice, knowledge and stories with the world. Setting up your podcast studio doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive – there are plenty of options for audio equipment that fits any budget.
Here at Mello Studio, we love Podcasting and we love to help people who are starting out their Podcast journey. If you need help finding the right gear to start your Podcast show, reach out to us today.
