Best podcasting gear — how do you choose? You’re a podcaster. You might be dedicated to audio-only or you like being on camera. Either way, gear matters. So what’s out there? Certainly, there are many separate components that can be brought together to create a great broadcast workstation. In some cases, it’s all in one like Marantz’s Professional Turret is an all-in-one broadcast streaming system. The package with camera, microphone and front light sits easily on any desk. It’s a little up the price ladder at $399, but consider that you get the full meal deal.
For an audio-only podcast, Behringer puts out a nice package simply called “Podcastudio USB” painlessly priced under $160.
What else is out there for the best podcasting gear? Let’s break it down by component, shall we?
MICROPHONES
One can’t go wrong with microphones like the Electrovoice RE50/B, Sennheiser’s MD 46 and Shure’s VP64A. Certainly, a Marantz MPM-1000 can make your set look quite cool if you’re doing a video blog and very tasty at $69.
But the question is, do you want something more subtle? Then, lavaliers are a good way to go. The Shure WL93 or the WL185 are great sounding and reliable. Lavaliers make interviews a little easier, as a handheld mic forces you to physically operate while having a conversation.
If you’re going with a suspended mic or one that sits on a desk or table, especially if you’re recording audio-only, you might consider adding this: a professional sound shield, which is just $99 and well worth it.
If you already have some lighting and just need to get the camera and mic thing covered, consider a mic that attaches to a camera, like a Rode Videomic Pro.
CAMERAS
Pretty much anything goes, like just about any DSLR. As long as you can capture audio and get 1080P, you can even get away with podcast murder using a phone.
LIGHTING
Where most video bloggers lose it is with lighting. Although the all-in-one kits provide you with some lighting, it’s all front-facing and flattens the face. Given that you’re not using a make-up artist, you might want to consider supplemental lighting from the side and a little to the rear to create more depth in your broadcast. LED lights come in all sizes. Neewer’s 160 LED studio Lighting kit under $130 comes with 2 lights on stands. So now, given that you have the front light, you can set up 3-point lighting.
Neewer Lighting
If you’re a podcaster, drop us a note and tell us about your gear. In a world of broadcast streaming and technological evolution, nothing stands still. In the meantime, happy broadcasting.
