Podcasting for Beginners: Equipment & Software

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When I recorded my first podcast in grad school, I was figuring it out as I went, and I’m still learning as I produce CultureKlatsch and discover what works for me. I took to the Internet (particularly this great resource from Podcast Motor) to find tips on equipment, recording software, and editing software, hoping I could get everything done on as low a budget as possible (student life, am I right?). If you’re just getting started and aren’t ready to commit to spending a lot of money on podcasting just yet, here’s the setup I went with for my very first recording, as well as the upgrades I’ve made now that I’m producing CultureKlatsch. 

Microphones 

Logitech Clearchat Headset mic: I went with this mic when I was getting started because it records with good quality for an affordable price. One of the good things about the headset is that the mic is always the same distance from your mouth, so your volume is consistent throughout the recording. It’s also handy to have your headphones and mic all in one, especially if you’re looking for a simple setup. One of the downsides is that, due to the proximity of the mic to your mouth, it captures all those popping sounds when you enunciate your Ts and Ps a bit too loudly. This can be avoided by minding your enunciation while recording, and you can clean it up a bit when you’re editing. 

Blue Yeti Condenser mic: I have since upgraded to the Blue Yeti mic because it has great quality and works for a variety of different settings. When you’re recording on your own, you can use the cardiod setting, which only records sound coming in from the front. If you’re recording a one-on-one interview or are in the room with multiple people, the mic has different settings to capture the sound you need. Because I do a lot of different kinds of interviews for CultureKlatsch, from one-on-one Skype calls to classroom discussions, this versatility is crucial. This is a powerful mic, which means it will also capture any background noise, so it’s best in a controlled recording environment (somewhere where you can turn off the air conditioner, close the windows, and make the room as soundproof as possible). 

Audio-Technica mic: The Blue Yeti is quite heavy, so it doesn’t work for situations where you want to pass around a mic (like if you’re recording a panel discussion). This Audio-Technica mic comes in handy when you need a lighter, more mobile option. 

Recording Software 

Call Recorder for Skype: This one is a must if you plan to have a lot of interviews for your podcast. It’s not always possible to talk in person, and Skype is the easiest way to conduct remote interviews and record them with good sound quality. Call Recorder for Skype from Ecamm requires a one-time payment, and it’s definitely worth it. It integrates with Skype so you can easily record your calls, and once you’re done, you can export the tracks separately (your side of the call and your guest's side), which makes your life easier when it comes to editing. Call Recorder for Skype only works for Mac, but you can try Pamela for PC. 

Editing Software 

Audacity: Let’s be real; the main reason I picked Audacity when I was getting started was that it’s free. But now that I’ve gotten used to editing with it, I really like it. Some people don’t enjoy the interface of Audacity quite as much, but it gets the job done. I’m totally self-taught when it comes to recording and editing audio, and I still have plenty to learn, but there are tons of videos and tutorials out there that show you how to make the most of Audacity. I also record directly to Audacity when I’m recording in person.
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The great thing about getting started in podcasting today is there are plenty of free and affordable options out there. You can always start with just the basics and then upgrade to different equipment and software as you learn and grow your podcast. If you’re already podcasting, let us know what type of equipment and software you’re using!