A podcast is a type of digital media that comes under the category of online broadcasting or streaming. It’s a series of video and audio recordings which often focus on a particular topic that can be downloaded online. It can be a form of entertainment and getting knowledge. Podcasts have really been popular in the last decade. In terms of making a video podcast, it is crucial to choose the right equipment for making a podcast. Much of the people and podcasters wonder about what equipment is needed for a podcast to enhance the content quality? So, this blog provides better insights into what equipment is needed for a podcast.
What Equipment is needed for a Podcast?
To start a podcast, we recommend the podcaster to start with the following equipment:
- Microphones
- Camera
- Headphones
- Recording and editing software
- Lighting
- Pop filter
- Camera and mic stands
1. Microphones
The microphone is one of the essential equipment to record a quality podcast. It is better to purchase a microphone for each member in the podcast. Investing in good podcast equipment is critical to record a video podcast. It is preferred to purchase a microphone that supports high-quality audio recording. Because high-quality microphones with a strong base and the capability to record crystal clear voices without noise are essential. It would be better to purchase Boya or Rode microphones. These microphones have all the features to record a good podcast. There are few things that can be considered when purchasing a microphone.
- Dynamic or Condenser Mics: The dynamic microphone are usually more affordable and don’t need any external power and are better for louder environments because these dynamics mics are sensitive while capturing much noise. On the other hand condenser mics produce high quality sounds but not an ideal choice for noisy environments because these mics are more sensitive.
- XLR vs. USB connection: It can be easier for the beginners to choose a USB microphone. Because USB microphones connect directly to the computer or any other power source with a USB input which means it is easy to set up. The XLR microphone requires an external power source such as an audio interface. This means a more advanced setup, but you can have more control over recording, and you can add more microphones without needing a lot of USB ports on the computer.
2. Camera
The video podcast keeps the viewers engaged through the content and allows them to produce many types of entertaining content. It is crucial to invest in high-quality cameras to record a video podcast. Consider purchasing a good camera to ensure the podcast’s high-quality visuals. So, investing in a camera is essential to record an engaging video podcast. It is preferred to purchase a camera that supports 4k videography or high-resolution visuals and has excellent battery time to register to the Podcast. The podcaster can find thousands of options when it comes to purchasing a camera. For example, cameras like Sony, Nikon, and Canon. These cameras have all the features to record a good podcast. It’s all about how much you can invest while purchasing. There are few factors to consider while purchasing a high-quality camera which includes:
- Camera Type: There are various types of cameras and you can choose from a DSLR, webcam, and even camcorder.
- Resolution: Not all cameras record in the same resolution. We would recommend a camera with a minimum of 1080p Full HD, or even better with 4K resolution.
3. Headphones
Headphones are essential equipment for the podcasters that allows them to monitor and adjust the sound quality of the podcast recording. However, the podcaster also uses them while editing the recorded podcast. There are multiple types of headphones available that can be choose by the podcaster which includes:
- In-ear vs on-ear vs over-ear: This comes to preference, but over-ear headphones are generally the most comfortable.
- Wireless vs. wired: The wireless headphones give more freedom to move around without cables but they also rely on battery and can cause delay in the audio hear. The many podcasters and user recommends the wired mics are the best for podcasters.
- Open back vs. closed back: Open back headphones allow air to pass through your audio cups, making everything sound better.
4. Recording and editing Software
Podcasts are one of the most powerful sources for sharing knowledge and entertainment. It has also become one the most popular sources for entertainment on social media in recent times. The podcaster does not just need recording equipment to record the podcast, but it is crucial to have a particular podcast recording software to make high-quality podcasts and to grow the audience. There are so many software that are providing podcast recording but it is difficult to choose the right video editing software. The best recording and editing software are given below:
- Riverside
- Podcastle
- Director suite 365
- Streamyard
- Final Cut Pro
- Adobe Audition
- Alitu
- Reaper
Read the detailed specification about these podcast recording and editing software.
5. Lighting
Lighting is the most essential aspect for recording podcasts. Because it enhances the overall look of the podcast. A good choice of lighting can really brighten the podcast through its engaging visuals. There are lots of lighting options available such as smart lighting, natural lighting and neon lighting. However, lighting helps to create a right atmosphere that aligns with the brand and content of the podcast. The podcast can set the tone of the lighting that reflects the niche and topic of the podcast. For example, Wellness podcasts often use bright lighting while the gaming shows use dark and neon background lights. Moreover, the lighting can be used to highlight some specific elements to capture the audience’s attention.
6. Pop Filters
The pop filter is not essential for recording podcast. According to price, it is affordable and make a huge difference for making the sound quality smoother. Pop filter is the barrier between you and microphone to reduce jerk sounds. There are multiple things to consider while purchasing a pop filter which includes:
- Size and shape: Firstly, make sure the pop filter perfectly fits on the mic. But choosing the bigger and round filter gives you more range when someone talks into the mic.
- Materials: Most of the pop filters are made with the nylon and metallic mash. Nylon is less durable and cheaper. On the other hand metallic filters are more durable then the nylon one.
7. Camera and Mic Stand
If you are a host and don’t want to hold a microphone during the entire podcast. So choose a stand for holding mics. Moreover the camera stand will provide a clearer, engaging and best look while recording footage.