Since podcasts have been steadily growing in popularity over these past few years, aspiring podcasters doubled in number as they are eager to start hosting their shows. However, just like all newbies, it’s hard, to begin with, a new project that you have little knowledge about. If you’ve desired to start producing your show on this platform, get your pen and paper and find out what you need before starting a show in this podcast equipment checklist.
We’ll provide you with a complete list of what you need to prepare before commencing your show and releasing it to the listeners. This checklist will help you choose the best podcast setup for you and deliver a more professional-sounding episode. Learn all of the types of equipment, requirements, budget, and setup below.
Podcast Equipment Checklist
People always seek to be entertained and to give entertainment. With so many ways to idle away the hours, the podcast remains one of the rave platforms people visit. Producing a podcast show is the same as creating videos on YouTube and Facebook. If you’re preparing to make a recorded show, tick off the equipment you already have and add the ones you lack in your checklist so you won’t miss anything.
1. Personal computer
The first thing you’ll need in your checklist is this equipment. Indeed, an essential device you must have is a computer. You’ll need this to upload your recording on the internet.
The recording and editing process is also done on this machine. Aside from that, you must consider its memory space, processor, and USB ports. Most processes happen in this equipment, so choosing the suitable PC will help you produce a better podcast.
2. Microphone
You might want to avoid using your computer’s microphone if you want a quality recording. A beginner needs to use a USB or microphone since it’s easier to set up. Add this equipment to your list since this device is crucial to the sound quality of your show.
3. Audio interface and mixer
The next thing to check on your list is these two. These pieces of equipment help connect and control your microphone. Also, they can improve your microphone’s preamps, input, and output.
4. Microphone stand
Another piece of equipment that you shouldn’t forget is a microphone stand. This tool will help secure your microphone and its sound quality. It can also help you bring the mic closer to your mouth when you’re recording.
Though you may think this is less critical equipment, it enables you to reduce the chance of hitting, rubbing, or knocking the microphone against something.
5. Headphones
When it comes to starters, any headphones will do. You don’t need to spend a heap of cash right away. Any headphones will help you give a better sound quality by hearing yourself more accurately.
6. Pop filter or windscreen
Probably one of the essential pieces of equipment that you should add to your checklist is a pop filter or windscreen. These types of equipment will help you sound clearer in your recordings. Most recorded audio doesn’t sound clear because of airblast from your mouth.
What it does is protect the microphone from the air as you speak.
7. Set up a soundproof room
You will need to create a recording studio to help eliminate reverberations. This will help you achieve more audible audio and lessen your work in post-production. There are few items inside your house that you can use for acoustic treatment. These are:
- Egg trays
- Heavy comforter
- Rugs
- Thick foams
For starters, it’s best to DIY your studio to save expenses. The items mentioned above are effective in minimizing ambient noise.
8. Get a recording and editing software
Now that you have the equipment list and the kind of setup you need, it’s time to consider getting suitable software. When you have your PC, there are various software options to choose from. You can use them to record and edit your audio.
Here is the most recommended software to add to your podcast equipment list:
- Audacity
- GarageBand
- Hindenburg Journalist
- Reaper
- Adobe Audition
9. Choose the right hosting platform
Aside from technological devices, you’ll need to add the platform to what you need to consider before producing a podcast show. It’s essential to choose a suitable platform to help you create your feed and publish your new episodes. You can use free and inexpensive ones like:
- SoundCloud
- Libsyn
- Buzzsprout
- Simplecast
10. Identify your target listener
Aside from equipment and setup, you’ll need to list down the requirements you’ll need to consider before creating a podcast. One of them is having a clear target audience. You must know to whom you are talking.
It’s crucial to know your target listeners to simplify and focus on creating content they are interested in and want to listen to. It would help if you asked yourself these questions:
- Is my target listener a male or female?
- What age group do they belong to?
- What is their status?
- What would they want to know about your podcast?
11.Pick your format or hosting style
The next thing on your requirement is your hosting style. You might want to have a defined type of podcast. It can be educational, inspirational, storytelling, conversational, or interviews. You can start by podcasting alone, then try to invite some friends, and later you can have a discussion or interview.
12. Promote your Podcast
Another thing to consider is how you will promote your show. You can use your social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to let people know and have a more significant range of listeners. Also, tell your family and friends to support you.
If you have enough money, you can also try paid advertisements online or fliers.
13. Prepare enough budget
Speaking of money, you’ll need to prepare enough budget to support your podcast. It’s not easy to acquire equipment and build a setup without a budget set aside. Podcasting will cost you money.
Before you spend on podcasting gear and other resources, you must prepare enough budget and stay within it. Always remember that you can save a lot when you do all the processes yourself. You only have to worry about the hosting fee and promotion.
Do you have everything listed above on your podcast equipment checklist? Remember that the more prepared you are for the show, the more you will get out of it. Get out there and release your content. If you’re good to go, there may be people who will love and are more than willing to listen. If you want to learn more, you may check out Grab the Mic media and see how podcasts things get done.
