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What Podcast Equipment Do Beginners Need to Start?
Whether you're new to podcasting or have been doing it for years, using the right podcast equipment tools helps you record clear sound and create content that keeps people listening.
Let’s break down everything you need to launch your podcast journey, including affordable setups for beginners and pro-level gear recommendations.
Table of Contents
What Equipment is Needed for a Podcast?
① Podcast Equipment for Beginners
- USB Microphone: A plug-and-play mic like the Aokeo AK-2 USB ensures clear sound without complex setups.
- Headphones: Closed-back headphoneshelp monitor audio quality in real-time.
- Pop Filter: Minimize plosive sounds (like “p” and “b”) for smoother recordings.
- Basic Editing Software: Free tools like Audacity or GarageBand work great for trimming and polishing episodes.
Aokeo AK-2
Gaming USB Computer Microphone
Aokeo AK-2 USB Microphone is a plug-and-play mic designed for gaming, recording, podcasting, and streaming. It features convenient volume control buttons and delivers clear, detailed sound. Compatible with PC, Mac, PS5, and PS4, it's ideal for YouTube, online meetings, and content creation on laptops and desktops.
Aokeo Pop Filter
② Podcast Equipment for Pros
- XLR Microphone: Upgrade to an XLR mic(XLR mics capture richer, more detailed sound) paired with an audio interface for studio-grade clarity.
- Audio Interface + Mixer: An interface converts analog signals (from XLR mics) to digital, while mixers let you adjust multiple mics or sound sources.
- Shock Mount + Boom Arm: Reduce vibrations and desk noise while positioning your mic at the perfect angle.
- Advanced Headphones: Pros need headphones with flat frequency response to hear every detail.
- Isolation Shield: Blocks room echoes and ambient noise instantly. The Aokeo Microphone Isolation Shield wraps around your mic for studio-quality clarity anywhere. Perfect for untreated rooms.
How Does a Beginner Start a Podcast?
Starting a podcast is simpler than you think! Find a quiet spot. Grab a microphone. Press record. Speak naturally. Your voice matters more than perfect gear.
Or you can follow these steps:
- Choose Your Niche: Pick a topic you’re passionate about.If it excites you, it’ll hook listeners too.
- Keep the format chill at first: Will it be solo, Guest interviews? Casual co-host banter? Try whatever feels natural.
- Invest in Basics: Grab a starter kit like the Aokeo AK-60(mic, headphones, pop filter, all in one.).
- Record a Test Episode: Your first few episodes might feel a bit awkward, but that’s totally cool.Practice makes progress! Do a 5-minute test clip to check mic levels and vibes.
- Edit and Upload: Trim mistakes, add intro/outro music, and export your file.
How Much Does a Basic Podcast Setup Cost?
A budget-friendly podcast setup can cost under $100. Here’s a rough estimate:
- USB Microphone: 20–100
- Headphones: 30–80
- Pop Filter/Stand: 10–30
- Software: Free or $20/month for premium tools.
Pro Tip: The Aokeo Starter Kit (AK-60) all essentials for $34.99, saving you time and money!
Which Podcast Platform is Best for Beginners?
Platforms like Anchor, Buzzsprout, Substack or Riverside are ideal for new podcasters. Here's a comparison table of them to help beginners choose the best podcast platform:
|
Feature |
Anchor |
Buzzsprout |
Substack |
Riverside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best For |
Free hosting, easy distribution |
Simple publishing, analytics |
Email + podcast combo |
High-quality remote recording |
|
Price |
Free |
Free plan + Paid plans ($12–$24/mo) |
Free with optional paid tiers |
Free plan + Paid plans ($15–$24/mo) |
|
Ease of Use |
Very beginner-friendly |
Very easy, intuitive interface |
Easy if already writing on Substack |
Easy to record, some learning needed |
|
Monetization |
Ads (Spotify) + Listener support |
Ads, sponsors (via Buzzsprout Ads) |
Paid subscriptions, donations |
Manual (outside tools or Patreon) |
|
Distribution |
Auto-distributes to major platforms |
Easy distribution setup |
No auto-distribution, RSS available |
Manual RSS export, no auto-distribution |
|
Recording Tools |
Basic recording/editing in app |
None (use separate software) |
None (external upload only) |
Studio-quality local/remote recording |
|
Analytics |
Basic stats |
Advanced analytics on all plans |
Basic open/download stats |
Recording stats, not audience data |
|
Storage Limits |
Unlimited episodes and storage |
Varies (free plan has 90-day limit) |
Unlimited audio + writing |
Unlimited recording (on paid plans) |
|
Community/Support |
Help center + community forums |
Excellent customer support |
Growing creator community |
Live support, tutorials available |
Podcast Equipment Kits: AK-60 Recommended
Why buy gear separately?
Pre-packaged podcast kits streamline the process.
The Aokeo AK-60 Podcast Kit is perfect for creators who want plug-and-play simplicity without compromising on audio quality.
Aokeo AK-60
Aokeo AK-60 USB Condenser Microphone delivers professional 192kHz/24-bit sound quality with a cardioid pickup pattern for clear vocals. This complete kit includes a boom arm, shock mount, and pop filter, making it perfect for recording, gaming, YouTube, meetings, and Discord. Easy USB setup ensures seamless compatibility with PCs and laptops.
Ready to Launch Your Podcast?
With the right podcast equipment, launching your show is easier than ever. Whether you opt for beginner-friendly USB mics or pro-level XLR setups, Aokeo’s range of microphones and accessories ensures you sound your best.
