Our Top Podcast Equipment We Recommend To Get Started

Written By Noah Davis

So, you’ve got an idea for a podcast—great! But where do you begin when it comes to the actual equipment? Starting a podcast is easier than you might think, and you don’t have to break the bank to get high-quality sound. We’ve put together a guide to help you get started at three different levels of investment. Whether you’re on a tight budget, ready to take it up a notch, or aiming for pro-level gear, we’ve got you covered. At Soundwaves Audio, we’ll help you get your podcast sounding amazing. Let’s dive in!

Level 1: Easiest and Cheapest Entry Point

Microphone: Samson Q2U USB/XLR Mic

The Samson Q2U is one of the best mics for beginners. It’s a dynamic microphone, meaning it picks up sound directly in front of it and minimizes background noise—a must for podcasting. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile with both USB and XLR output, meaning you can plug it directly into your computer or use it with more advanced audio gear as you upgrade.

Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett Solo

To improve the quality even further, pair the Samsung Q2U with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This audio interface is perfect for solo podcasters, as it supports 1 XLR input. It enhances clarity and reduces latency, which means you can record clearer audio without delays. It’s compact, easy to use, and affordable—perfect for beginners.

Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

You’ll need a good pair of headphones to monitor your recording, and the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x are a budget-friendly option with excellent sound isolation. This ensures you can hear exactly how your podcast sounds, minimizing errors during the recording process.

Total Cost for Entry Level Setup: $240–$290

Level 2: Stepping Up Your Game

Microphone: Shure MV7

If you’re ready to up your game, the Shure MV7 is a fantastic option. It’s modeled after the legendary Shure SM7B but designed with the modern podcaster in mind. This mic features both USB and XLR connectivity, giving you more flexibility as you grow. The built-in touch controls for gain, monitoring volume, and headphone mix make it a solid choice for podcasters who want more control over their sound.

Audio Interface: Rodecaster Duo

Pairing the Shure MV7 with the Rodecaster Duo elevates your production quality even more. This audio interface is powerful yet simple, providing built-in sound effects, easy-to-use controls, and multi-channel recording capabilities. It can accommodate 2 XLR inputs, making it ideal for podcasting with a co-host or an in-person guest. It’s perfect for podcasters who want a higher degree of control over their sound.

Headphones: Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

To match your upgraded microphone and interface, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones deliver clear, high-quality sound with excellent noise isolation. This allows you to monitor your recording accurately and catch even the smallest audio errors.

Total Cost for Mid-Level Setup: $850–$880

Level 3: Professional Setup

Microphone: Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B is the microphone used by some of the biggest names in podcasting, including Joe Rogan. This dynamic microphone offers unmatched clarity and richness, ideal for those looking to create a professional-sounding podcast. Its cardioid pickup pattern minimizes background noise, making it perfect for home studios.

Audio Interface: Rodecaster Pro2

The Rodecaster Pro2 is the ultimate audio interface for podcasters, offering superior sound quality, intuitive controls, and advanced features like multi-track recording and built-in processing. It’s perfect for those looking to produce professional-grade podcasts with minimal post-production editing. With 4 XLR inputs, it can accommodate up to four people in a single recording session—ideal for podcasts with multiple guests or co-hosts.

Headphones: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

For a pro setup, you’ll want headphones that deliver every nuance of your audio. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are highly regarded in the industry for their sound clarity and comfort during long recording sessions. They provide excellent isolation, allowing you to focus solely on your podcast.

Total Cost for Professional Setup: $1,280–$1,300

Recording Space: Where to Podcast

Regardless of your setup, you’ll need a quiet space to record. Here are a few tips:

  • Choose a quiet room: Avoid areas with a lot of background noise, like near windows, busy streets, or loud appliances.

  • Control the acoustics: Recording in a room with a lot of echo can make your podcast sound unprofessional. Use rugs, curtains, or even blankets to dampen the sound. Acoustic panels can also help, but they aren’t necessary for beginners.

  • Podcast during quiet times: Record when the kids are at school or late at night when your neighborhood is calm. Avoid times when gardeners, trash trucks, or other interruptions are likely.

Recording Software: Simple and Efficient

Free Options

  • Audacity: For beginners on a budget, Audacity is an excellent free option for both Mac and PC. It’s a bit basic but gets the job done for simple podcast recording and editing.

  • GarageBand: If you’re on a Mac, GarageBand comes pre-installed and offers more advanced features than Audacity, making it a great option for beginners and intermediate users alike.

Premium Options

  • Adobe Audition: For those who want advanced features, Adobe Audition offers powerful editing tools and effects that allow for complete control over your podcast.

  • Riverside.fm: If you’re recording remotely, Riverside.fm is our favorite platform. It records audio and video in high quality directly from the source, minimizing issues like lag or distortion, making it perfect for professional-sounding remote interviews. With Riverside.fm, you can have up to 8 remote guests at once. Each guest's audio and video is recorded locally and then uploaded to the cloud, ensuring the highest quality, even if their internet connection drops during the session.

Let’s Get Started!

No matter where you are on your podcasting journey, Soundwaves Audio is here to help. Whether you’re starting with the Samsung Q2U, upgrading to the Shure MV7, or going all-in with the Shure SM7B and Rodecaster Pro2, you’re on your way to producing high-quality audio that will engage your listeners.

Ready to get your podcast up and going? Book a call with us today and let’s make it happen! We can’t wait to hear what you’ll create.

Noah Davis