Whether you’re an aspiring content creator ready to set foot in the Podcasting world, or a professional looking to take the game up a notch, Podcast Equipment is probably one of the most important elements to consider. Podcasting Equipment could include anything from the most important part, which is the mic to pop filters, headphones, camera stands and camera. .
The rapid growth of the podcasting industry around the world has given rise to many brands manufacturing such equipment. This has further led to a state of skepticism, as a normal consumer is bombarded with a plethora of options available in the market, especially in the budget range.
So to make your job easier, we have handpicked the best podcast equipment in the budget for Beginners & Pros. With that, we have also prepared a detailed checklist for beginners, so that you won’t be missing anything. That said, let’s get started:
Equipment Checklist
Just like making a list of items to carry on a trip, you also need to make a checklist of all the equipment that is necessary for you. One thing to note here is that equipment can vary based on your niche and style of content.
However, there are some staple podcast equipment that you have to invest in regardless of your niche. And those equipment are:
1) Microphone (XLR/USB)
2) Pop Filter
3) Headphones
4) Camera
5) Microphone Stand
1) Best Microphone:
● Razer Seiren X
Pros:
– Sturdy Build Quality
– Made especially for Streamers
– Shock Resistant Stand
– Condenser Mic
Cons:
– Single Pickup Pattern Makes it One-Toned
– Diminutive Size
Verdict:
Razer Seiren X is an excellent budget alternative for aspiring Live Streamers, Gamers, and Podcasters. With its sturdy build quality and compact form factor, this microphone is easy to carry around. The stealthy black color with rubberized plastic adds a premium feel to the mic. The only downside of the Seiren X is its single pickup pattern, which can make the audio produced from it less versatile.
Alternatives:
– Blue Microphone Snowball (Ultra Lightweight and Budget-Friendly)
– Sonotronics Podcast Pro (Built like a Tank)
2) Best Pop Filter
● Arisen Mic Pop Filter
Pros
– Garnered Some Great Reviews
– Minimalist Design
– Compatible with Multiple Designs
– Lightweight
Cons
– Questionable Build Quality
Verdict:
This Arisen Mic Pop Filter was an easy pick, thanks to the excellent customer reviews it has garnered. This pop filter has a minimal design that can easily blend in with your podcasting theme. And it can be paired with multiple designs as well. Although the pop filter is lightweight, its build quality is not the best in the segment but it’s a sacrifice worth making.
Alternatives
– Neculogy Professional Studio Recording Pop Filter (Comes in recording combo)
– CODN Recording Pop Filter (Has excellent build quality but is slightly expensive)
3) Headphones
● Audio Technica ATH-M50X
Pros
– Tried & Tested
– Crystal Clear Sound Quality
– Power Efficient
– Comfortable Ear Cushions
Cons
– Bland Color Scheme
Verdict:
The dream of audiophiles around the world, Audio-Technica ATH-M50X is one of the most reputed headphones in the market. The company has sold over 5 million of these since their arrival thanks to their unmatched audio quality and power efficiency. Even veteran podcasters like Joe Rogan have used these in many of his podcasts, which clearly depicts the level of quality they deliver. At under $150, these headphones should surely be on your podcasting equipment list.
Alternatives
– Sennheiser Pro Audio HD (Amazing audio quality at a decent price)
– Sony MDR7506 (Best in class)
4) Camera
● Canon EOS 4000D
Pros
– Best in Budget
– Lightweight and easy to Maneuver
– Decent ISO Range
– Provides Good Grip
Cons
– Small Rear Screen
– Fiddly Auto Focus
Verdict:
Canon EOS 4000D is easily one of the best entry-level DSLRs one can find. With a compact form factor and decent build quality, EOS 4000D steamrolls its competitors in terms of maneuverability. Although this camera has often been criticized for its average IS (Image Stabilisation), it still offers a plethora of additional features like a custom dial and Digic 4+ processor to compensate for it.
Alternatives
– Sony Alpha a6400 (Provides excellent video stabilization)
– Canon EOS Rebel T7 (Proven workhorse and has brilliant battery life)
5) Mic Stand
● Gator Framework Microphone Stand
Pros
– Super stable base
– 180-degree movement
– Matte black color is refreshing
– Different height adjustments
Cons
– The connecter is made of plastic
Verdict
This Microphone stand from Gator Framework provides unmatched quality & stability in the given price segment. With a 180-degree movement, you also get a lot of freedom in terms of mic placement. And on top of all this, this mic stand also comes with an adjustable height knob, which can be super handy in case you are traveling or carrying it outside the studio/
Alternatives
– Puroma Heavy Mic Stand (Amazon choice and comes at a relatively affordable price)
– GUDEHOLO USB Microphone Stand (Provides excellent stability with a lot of different angles)
Bonus: Best Podcasting Software
There is no denying that good equipment helps you deliver quality content. But if you really want to edge past your competitors and take your podcasting game to the horizon, investing in Podcasting Software is a must.
Many podcasting software providers offer a free trial period, which means you can try it for free for a limited number of days or weeks. Some providers even offer free podcasting software for a lifetime with limited capabilities, and users can choose the paid version to use the advanced features.
Using a podcast software program is relatively easy. After downloading the software, content creators can start podcast recording and live streaming with just a laptop, desktop computer, or mobile device and internet connection. The podcasting software allows them to invite guests to their podcast without creating accounts or downloading the software.
The best podcasting software programs in the market have various features, such as mono and stereo sounds, high-quality recording, noise suppression and cancellation, and echo cancellation. They also have excellent video and sound quality, supporting all types of microphones.
Podcasting encompasses the use of software and hardware systems. Choosing the right podcast software is similar to picking the best podcast equipment. You should weigh the advantages and the drawbacks and compare one podcast software to another. Considering the features, benefits, the user’s podcasting needs, and budget is crucial. Moreover, it’s imperative to avail yourself of the podcasting software from a trusted provider with a good track record and excellent customer and technical support services.
Boomcaster is one of the newest fish in the pond. But make no mistake, this is one of the best budget podcast hosting software that you can get your hands on. With breathtaking studio quality and glitch-free recording, Boomcaster also allows its users to have custom sessions within a transparent pricing structure.
There is even a dedicated article on why Boomcaster is the next “big thing” in the world of podcasting, and here is the link to it.
Conclusion
So these were the Best Podcast Equipment in Buge for Beginners & Pros. Other than this, there are a ton of other equipment that you can invest in. However, as this is a budget list, we have only included the bare minimum equipment that aspiring podcasters should own in order to start their journey.