When you’re listening to a podcast, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it the host’s tone or the quality of the content? Perhaps it’ll be the guest speakers’ profiles that pique your curiosity. When listening to a podcast episode, though, the first thing that will strike you is the audio quality.
Clear and crisp audio can go a long way toward keeping your listeners interested and hooked on your podcast. Alternatively, even if your material is excellent, poor audio quality will turn off listeners. The sound quality of your podcast is affected by a variety of elements such as background noise, interference, and so on. It’s critical to invest in good podcast equipment if you want to start a podcast series.
When it comes to podcasting equipment, there are a lot of options on the market. However, it is critical to examine the technical requirements as well as the advantages and disadvantages. It’s also crucial to determine whether a particular podcast equipment kit is appropriate for your content and end goal. We’ll look at some of the greatest podcast starter kits in this blog, which will help you get one step closer to becoming a pro podcaster.
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TONOR Pro Condenser Microphone Kit
- ♪♫NOTE: Sound card is INCLUDED! It CANNOT be used with mobile phone and tablet computer. For a better sound quality, pls face the sound source...
- ♪♫All-in-one: Package includes a microphone, shock mount, adjustable suspension scissor arm stand, table mounting clamp, pop filter, windscreen,...
- ♪♫Cardioid Polar Pattern: Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides, improving isolation of desired sound source, which is...
TONOR Pro Condenser Microphone Gear is your best bet if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly podcasting kit under $50. A condenser microphone (XLR), scissor arm stand, table clamp, pop filter, windscreen, XLR cable, and 48V phantom power supply are all included. The cardioid polar pattern of the mic improves sound isolation, making it excellent for podcasting. A metal shock mount is also included in the kit.
The best aspect about this kit is how simple it is to put together and how well it comes with an instruction booklet. When you don’t have a lot of experience with audio equipment, it’s excellent. It’s also impressive that so many tools have been included without the price going up. The slogan “value for money” was invented for this TONOR Pro package, and it is not an exaggeration.
The only issue is that, despite its excellent clarity, the audio lacks warmth. This implies you’ll have to make a few tiny adjustments after you’ve finished recording. It’s not impossible to correct; nonetheless, you should think about whether you’re comfortable with audio post-processing. You won’t be able to get the most out of this podcasting package if you don’t do so.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio Kit Bundle
- High-quality Focusrite microphone preamp and instrument input on front panel.
- Pair of RCA unbalanced outputs let you take your sound to other monitoring solutions
- Fully compatible with Mac and Windows computers
A CM25 XLR mic, clip, cable, and the Focusrite Interface are included in this sophisticated podcasting set. A 48V phantom power supply, RCA unbalanced outputs, and a pair of HP60 headphones with gain control are also included. The best thing is that the audio interface works with virtually all Windows and Mac computers.
The XLR mic captures high-quality audio while preserving your natural voice tone. A mic preamp with a musical instrument input is also included. This package is more expensive than other podcast starter kits on the market. The Focusrite Scarlett Studio Kit, on the other hand, is well worth the money if you have long-term podcasting intentions.
Audio-Technica AT2020PK Vocal Microphone Pack for Streaming/Podcasting
- Ideal for vocal pickup
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
A sturdy all-metal XLR mic and a flexible boom arm with 360-degree rotation are included in this Audio Technica podcasting equipment. It also comes with a pair of high-end ATH-M20x headphones for monitoring. The straightforward and compact product comes in a delicate storage pouch and is an excellent value for podcast fans.
The AT2020K kit’s microphone, which includes a cardioid pickup, is the star of the show. It offers great audio reproduction qualities, with low noise and no interference from the environment. The package, however, is missing a pop filter and XLR wires. You’ll also need to buy an audio interface to connect your mic to your computer.
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
- Large-diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Mic with Shockmount
- Pop Shield
- Dust Cover
When you want to step up your podcasting game, this state-of-the-art podcasting set from Rode is the way to go. A solid all-metal XLR condenser mic with superb audio output is included. It also comes with a metal shock mount, a pop filter, and an XLR cable.
The NT1-A Anniversary Package’s sole minor flaw is that it isn’t exactly beginner-friendly. Inexperienced podcasters will need some time to get used to the equipment. Furthermore, the XLR microphone necessitates the use of an audio interface, which is not included in the kit. Because the kit lacks a phantom power supply, you’ll also need a preamp. This is the Best Podcast Starter Kit in 2023.
PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle Complete Hardware/Software Recording Kit
- Complete recording solution: Just add a computer.
- AudioBox USB 96 audio/MIDI interface with cable
- Eris E3.5 compact, 2-way, active studio monitors
The PreSonus StudioBox Ultimate Bundle will captivate you if you want a complete podcasting solution and are willing to pay a little money. It comes with everything you’ll need to get started with podcasting, including hardware and software. This kit includes everything from a large-diaphragm microphone and audio interface to audio editing software and studio monitors.
XLR cables and a pair of high-quality headphones are also included in the box. The best aspect is that the tough hardware works with almost all Windows and Mac computers. The only drawback is that the software is not suitable for beginners. To become used to it, you’ll need to put in some effort and look out some tutorials.
Blue Yeti Blackout USB Mic Kit
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This advanced podcast beginning package is appropriate for both novice and intermediate podcasters. What sets this kit apart from other podcasting equipment bundles is the simple plug-and-play USB microphone. A multipolar pattern selector and many on-body controls, including a Mute button and a Gain dial, are included on the robust mic. This allows you to control the sound while recording it, obviating the need for extensive post-production.
It’s also worth noting that this is an all-in-one podcasting gear, complete with a microphone stand, boom arm, and pop filter. You also get a good pair of headphones. This is the ideal podcasting set if you’re searching for something that can be used in the long run. The main drawback is that the Volume and Gain controls are fragile and inexpensive. Some reviews also state that the microphone does not fit correctly into the boom arm. Before you start using the Blue Yeti Blackout USB Mic Kit, it’s a good idea to double-check this.
Podcast Starter Kit Buying Guide
When purchasing a podcast starter kit, there are several critical factors to consider:
Budget
Your budget is a significant determinant of the podcast starter kit that you can afford. Kits can range from under $100 to over $500, depending on the quality and the components included.
Quality of Components
Each component in the kit contributes to the overall sound quality of your podcast. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that each piece, from the microphone to the headphones, is of good quality.
Portability
If you plan to conduct interviews or record on the go, you should consider the portability of your podcast starter kit. Some kits are designed with portable components for podcasters who need to set up temporary studios.
Upgradeability
As you progress on your podcasting journey, you may want to upgrade individual components of your kit. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a kit that allows for easy upgrades.
Usability
Your podcast starter kit should be user-friendly, especially if you are a beginner. Look for kits that are easy to set up and come with clear instructions.
Software Compatibility
Most podcast starter kits are designed to be compatible with popular recording and editing software. However, it’s always a good idea to verify this before making a purchase. Check the product specifications or reviews to ensure the kit works well with your chosen software.
Brand Reputation
A company’s reputation can often indicate the quality of their products. Look for brands known for their durability, sound quality, and customer service. Researching reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other customers.
Warranty
A warranty can protect your investment by covering any manufacturing defects or issues that arise after purchase. Look for a podcast starter kit that comes with a comprehensive warranty.
Package Inclusions
Some kits may include additional items such as pop filters, shock mounts, or carrying cases. While these might not be essential for starting a podcast, they can provide added value and enhance your recording experience.
Recording Environment
Your recording environment can impact the type of microphone you should choose. Condenser microphones are ideal for quiet studio environments, while dynamic microphones are better suited for noisier or outdoor settings. Some kits may even include soundproofing tools for optimizing your recording space.
Connectivity
Consider how the components of the kit connect to your recording device. USB connectivity is straightforward and great for beginners, while XLR connections offer better audio quality and are preferred for professional setups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I start a podcast with just a smartphone?
Yes, you can. However, the audio quality may not be as high as when using a dedicated microphone and headphones. A podcast starter kit is recommended for a more professional sound.
Do I need a pop filter?
A pop filter is used to reduce or eliminate ‘popping’ sounds caused by the mechanical impact of fast-moving air on the microphone during recorded speech and singing. While not always necessary, it can improve the sound quality of your podcast.
What kind of microphone is best for podcasting?
Dynamic microphones are generally the best for podcasting due to their durability, ease of use, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. They are also less sensitive to ambient noise, making them ideal for less-than-perfect recording environments.
What is phantom power, and do I need it?
Phantom power is a DC voltage (usually between 12-48V) supplied by audio interfaces to power condenser microphones. If your microphone is a condenser type, you will need an interface with phantom power.
What’s the difference between USB and XLR microphones?
USB microphones plug directly into your computer and convert analog sound into digital within the microphone itself. They are easy to use and great for beginners. XLR microphones require an audio interface to convert the analog sound to digital. They generally offer better sound quality and are preferred by professionals.
What is a shock mount, and why do I need it?
A shock mount isolates the microphone from physical disturbances such as desk bumps or handling noise. This results in cleaner audio by reducing unwanted noise.