If you are thinking about starting a podcast for your business, you may be wondering what equipment you need to begin. The reality is you won’t need much to start a podcast, but these four things can be very helpful to get you started.
1. Audio Editing Software
If you are serious about starting a podcast, you’re going to want a place to record and edit your audio. The good news is that you can find inexpensive options like Audacity, GarageBand, and WavePad. All of these software’s have free versions which are enough to get you started, and often are good enough to use even after you go ‘pro’. If you are not concerned about money, there are other options as well. For example, Logic Pro (which is a one time purchase of $200), or Adobe Audition which has a monthly subscription. Ultimately, the choice of audio software will depend on your personal preference. Just make sure that the program you use is easy to navigate and something that you enjoy working with.
2. Microphone(s)
Something else that will be important for your podcast is a microphone. Unfortunately, the microphone on your computer is not going to cut it unless you want the quality to sound poor. Just like audio software, microphones range in price from budget-friendly to more high end. Microphones also range in size, there is some that plug into your phone, while others stand on your table. Again, the decision is completely up to you and what works for your podcast.
It’s also a good idea to get a pop guard, which is a little foam sock that goes over the microphone. This is helpful because it stops people from “popping” when they say words that start with a harsh consonant like ‘p’ or ‘b’. Those sounds can be grating for your audience, and sometimes fixing them in the edit can be a fiddly job.
3. A Podcast Host
When you’ve recorded your episode and exported it to MP3 the next thing you need for a podcast is somewhere to house your MP3s. The place to do that is inside a podcast host.
Podcast hosts are the link between you and the podcast directories (where listeners find your show). There are a bunch of different ones out there, so again it will come down to personal preference. But some popular ones include Omny, Buzzsprout, and Blubrry:
Omny
Omny is a popular host with a nice player design and a simple interface to navigate. Unfortunately, their players currently don’t play natively on Facebook or Twitter which is a bit of a bummer.
Blubrry
Blubrry is a very popular host that is relatively easy to use. They comply with official podcast measurement guidelines which help if you’re looking for sponsorship. Blubrry also does not alter your uploaded file in any way.
Buzzsprout
Buzzsprout is a podcast host that prides itself on simplicity and speed. They make it super easy and super quick to upload and publish your show, and their import tool can transfer you from another host in no time at all.
4. Headphones
Headphones are not as important as the other tools, but they can be very helpful. Many sounds can affect your recording. Most of the time you won’t pick these up with your ears so it’s important to be wearing headphones. If you record in a place that is soundproof or where there is very limited external noise, headphones are not as essential. However, if you are just beginning and don’t have a more quiet place to record, consider headphones a must-have.
So these are the basic tools to start! And above all else, you just have to do it! If you are looking for some podcast inspo, check out my two podcasts here!