Tools Needed to Start Your Podcast
What tools do I need to start a podcast?
Starting a podcast can be done using simple tools you already have. It's worth it, however, to make sure you have the right equipment to get the best quality audio as possible.
The things you'll need to start a podcast are:
1. Equipment
2. Audio Editing software
3. Subscription to podcast platform
4. Intro/outro music (suggested, but not mandatory)
5. Setup/Management of the podcast
Equipment
One of the most important (and toughest) choice you'll make when starting a podcast is choosing the right equipment. Ask a handful of podcasters what equipment they use, and you'll likely get a different answer from each one. It really boils down to preference, quality, and budget.
I've known podcasters who got a strong start by simply recording on their phone. The sound quality was decent, and their message was launched. iPhone users usually have Garage Band already installed on their phone for audio recording and editing. Android users have an array of recording apps that can be downloaded free. If you're looking for a near zero-budget launch, this option is for you. Keep in mind, however, that the sound quality will be subpar.
A popular starter mic is the Blue Yeti. It has four different recording settings, and you can plug your headphones straight into the mic so that you can monitor yourself as you record. It's a USB mic, which means it plugs straight into your computer and it's ready to record. It runs under $100 and is simple to use, providing quality sound. For the most part, it's best for a one-person show. If you plan to interview others, you'll want to look into multiple XLR mics with a mixer.
When investing in multiple XLR mics, the type matters. For podcasting, you'll want to choose a dynamic mic over a condenser mic. A condenser mic is built to receive all surrounding sound with high accuracy (active listening), which is perfect for recording music in a studio. However, for podcasting, it can be a disadvantage, as it picks up every wave of background noise such as the click of a keyboard, the laptop fan kicking on, and the swishing movement of clothing. A dynamic mic is better at ignoring background ambient noise (passive listening), while still capturing highly accurate sound. This is why the mics I recommend are all dynamic mics.
I recommend choosing the Samsung Q2U or AudioTechnica ATR 2100x. These XLR mics are popular among podcasters for good reason. The sound quality is excellent without breaking the bank. They can be purchased online often in a bundle with a mic stand, wind screen, and even headphones. These mics can also be used with a USB cable to plug straight into your computer for the times that you'll be recording solo.
Next, you'll want to look into mixers. If you have multiple mics, you need a hub to plug them all in. I suggest getting a Zoom H4N or Zoom H6N digital recorder, because it doubles as your mixer. (confession: I become a total nerd over digital recorders!) These handy little things can be purchased second-hand at a great price, and are normally treated with care by their previous owners. The H4N allows you to plug up to two mics into it, and the H6N has four mic ports. Did I mention it's also a digital recorder? As long as you have that digital recorder with you, you can record anything, anytime! It's perfect for quick interviews on the spot. Another great mixer option is the Scarlet 2i2 with two mic ports, which is simple to use if you're not experienced with mixers. A brand new option on the market is the Zoom Podtrack P4, which can take up to four mics. I've never used this personally, but I'm seeing some good things about it. It has similar knobs and functions as the Zoom digital recorders.
Software
Your startup software for editing your sound really comes down to three simple options. Apple products such as iPhones and Mac computers often have Garage Band, which may be all you need. Another option, a popular one, is Audacity, which is a free online open-source software. It allows you to upload your audio file, edit, and save it for uploading into your podcast platform. I personally use Audacity. It has everything I need for editing sound, and the end result is extremely high quality. Adobe Audition is a third, but more expensive, option. It provides even higher quality sound, starting at around $21 per month. All three options are great, and the choice really comes down to preference, and YouTube videos provide a wealth of information for use, tips and tricks.
Subscription
Your choice of platform subscription is an important one, too, and you have many options there. A podcast platform is the service you'll need to upload your audio files for distribution among various podcast directories (there are currently around 18, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Podcast Addict, etc). I personally recommend BuzzSprout. I've met their team and really believe them and how they do business. Their customer service is fantastic, and the interface is very user-friendly. BuzzSprout makes it as easy as possible to get your podcast plugged into each directory. That way, your content is automatically fed into them when you hit "publish" on each episode. Other great options are PodBean, Lisbyn, Anchor, etc. Explore each one, and see what works for you.
Music
You know that familiar little jingle you hear at the beginning and end of each episode of your favorite podcast? You can make your own, using the audio editing software of your choice. Choose a song that fits your style, and purchase the rights to use it. There are a few free websites out there that allow creative commons license to their music, but they often ask for attribution somewhere in the episode. My favorite place to find music is Audiojungle.com, where a good song (or song bundle) will require a one-time purchase anywhere from $5 to $100, depending on the song chosen. This website is super-easy to use, and you can sample the songs to see which one is a good fit for you.
Management
Getting your podcast all set up and ready to go can be daunting and time-consuming. Mitzi Jane Media is here to get you set up, as well as help you manage your podcast. Setup includes choosing your platform subscription, creating an account, designing a logo, creating artwork, and submitting your podcast to each and every directory. Management includes developing a content calendar, recording your podcast, and editing your podcast. Our team is here to help you succeed from set up to management and all the stages in-between. If you are short on time and just want to get your message out there, hiring a pro is the way to go.
Happy Podcasting!
