Podcast Tools
Zoom
Zoom.us is increasingly becoming the go-to recording platform for remote podcast interviews. This brief video will show you how to optimize your Zoom settings for podcast recording.
Learn how to
- Record the interview to your computer (even when the host sends the Zoom invitation).
- Record the raw audio track without compression.
Kitcaster Recommended Podcast Microphone Package ~ $800
Audio Signal Path
This is our microphone and accessory recommendations for capturing world-class audio for podcast interviews. An excellent choice for studio, home, or office.
Additional Mic Options
USB Podcast Microphones
Plug & Play
Each of these microphones plugs directly into your computer. They offer fantastic sound for podcast interviews at a great price. Little or no set-up is required.
Blue Yeti
$129
- 12 colors to choose from
- 16,000 5 star reviews on Amazon
- Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
- Sound check
- Shop
Rode NT-USB
$199
- Looks cool on your desk
- Tripod desk stand, ring mount, storage pouch and 6m (20’) USB cable
- Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
- Direct mix control between mic input and source output
- Sound check
- Shop
XLR Podcast Microphones
These microphones will give you a substantial lift in audio quality from the USB microphones. (See accessories listed below.) please note that you will also need to purchase a mic cable, a mic stand, and a pre-amp to convert your audio to digital.
Rode PodMic *Kitcaster Recommends
$99
- A broadcast-quality dynamic microphone a rich, balanced sound optimized for podcasting
- Features an internal pop filter to minimize plosives
- An internal shock mounting to reduce vibration
- Optimized for use with the RODECaster pro podcast production studio
- Also offers exceptional results with any high-quality microphone interface
- Shop
AKG Pro Audio C214
$349
- Large diaphragm condenser
- Integrated suspension
- 20dB attenuator and bass-cut filter
- Sound check
- Shop
Shure SM7B
$399
- The best podcast microphone that money can buy
- Flat, wide-range frequency response for exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of speech
- Bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis (presence boost)
- Sound check
- Shop
Shure Beta58a
$159
- Brightened midrange and bass roll off
- Extremely durable and versatile
- Frequency response tailored for vocals
- Sound check
- Shop
Headphones
These are a couple of my favorite headphones for podcasting. Any good pair of over-ear, wired headphones will work just fine. Note, you may want to pick up a cord extension and 1/8″ to 1/4″ adapter depending on your tools and desk setup.
Lights
A lot of podcasters are using Zoom to record their podcasts these days. Look your best. I have tested out a bunch to find options right in the Goldilocks Zone. Not too bright, not too intrusive, no harsh shadows, mobile-ready, and not too expensive. All of these are great options.
Kitcaster Recommended Podcast Camera Package ~ $1400.00
Video Signal Path
This is our camera and accessory recommendations for capturing world-class video for podcast interviews and content repurposing on social media. An excellent choice for studio, home, or office.
Video
Upgrade your webcam. Not all podcasters publish the video, but nearly all of them record it. Having a great video version of your podcast episode is crucial when you’re ready to repurpose the interviews. If you’re looking for a turnkey podcast / video hardware, software, and set-up consultation, reach out! We can help.
Additional Camera Options
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera *Kitcaster Recommends
$748
- Next Gen speed: experience the world’s fastest 0. 02 sec AF with real-time AF and object tracking
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84% of the sensor
- Fast and accurate: up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24. 2MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Multiple movie functions: make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
- Shop
Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens for Sony E *Kitcaster Recommends
$369
- Compatible with Sony E mount cameras
- Perfect for nature & event photography
- Large f/1.4 aperture for superb lowlight performance
- Compact size makes it very portable
- Fully accommodates Fast Hybrid AF
- Shop
Your old DSLR camera
FREE
- If you have a DSLR kicking around, put it to use! With the blurry backgrounds, DSLR cameras make video calls look incredible. Check out this YouTube tutorial to add some serious power to your podcast interview video.
Accessories
Shopping list of podcast essentials.
Elgato Wave XLR *Kitcaster Recommends
For XLR microphones
$159
- Microphone Interface: premium XLR to USB-C connection.
- Wave Link App: mix multiple audio sources and create two independent mixes.
- Proprietary Clipguard Technology: prevents microphone distortion.
- Studio Grade Preamp: up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain amplifies insensitive mics.
- Phantom Power: 48 volts to drive condenser microphones.
- Shop
Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator *Kitcaster Recommends
For XLR microphones
$149
- FOR HOME STUDIOS & PROFESSIONAL RECORDING: In the studio, boost the signal of quiet audio sources like vocals, percussion, or acoustic instruments while maintaining the natural sound of your microphone.
- REDUCE NOISE WHILE ADDING MICROPHONE CLARITY & SIGNAL STRENGTH: The Cloudlifter CL-1 mic activator uses Phantom power to give passive mics up to +25dB without passing Phantom power onto the mics themselves. Reduce unwanted feedback while increasing the clarity of your microphones.
- Shop
RetiCAM Tabletop Tripod *Kitcaster Recommends
$29
- Complete table top tripod for digital cameras, DSLR cameras, camcorders, spotting scopes, and many other devices equipped with standard 1/4 tripod mounts;
- Full of Features: 3-Way pan/tilt head, quick release mounting plate, bubble level, extendable center column, quick snap leg locks, non-slip rubber feet;
- Shop
Mackie HM-4 4-Way Headphone Amplifier Bundle *Kitcaster Recommends
$55
- This Mackie HM4 4-Way Headphones Amplifier comes with all the manufacturer accessories and a 1-year Mackie USA warranty along with a 10-piece bundle which includes a Mophead 10′ TRS balanced male to male 1/4″ cable, 4x TRS 1/4″ stereo to 3.5mm TRS adapter, 4x cable management ties and Circuit City microfiber cloth.
- Share a stereo input signal with maximum headroom and low noise to up to 4 pairs of headphones.
- Shop
Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro HDMI Live Stream Switcher *Kitcaster Recommends
$295
- HDMI Video Inputs – 4 x HDMI type A, 10-bit HD switchable. 2 channel embedded audio.
- Total Audio Inputs – 2 x 3.5mm stereo mini jack.
- Direct recording to USB flash disks in H.264
- Direct streaming via Ethernet to YouTube Live and more
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XLR mic cables
