10). Beginner's Podcast Equipment Checklist: Everything You Need to Get Started

You're ready to start your podcast but getting held back by all the technical jargon? Don't worry — you don't have to have an elaborate studio or shell out thousands of dollars' worth of equipment to sound professional. You simply need a great beginner-friendly podcast setup, and that's just what this guide will take you through.

Let's deconstruct the basic equipment you'll need — without making it overly complicated or taking a budgetary hit.

What's a Simple Podcasting Gear Setup?
You don't need to complicate a beginner's setup. Here's the essentials of what you'll need:

A quality microphone

A pair of headphones

Recording/editing software

Optional accessories (such as a pop filter and boom arm)

Regardless of whether you're recording solo, co-hosting, or interviewing guests over the phone, the equipment can grow with you — but you can always begin with the essentials and add more later.

✅ Podcast Starter Equipment Checklist
1. Microphone – Let Your Voice Shine
Your mic is the core of your operation. There are two primary types you should look at:

USB Microphones (Plug-and-play — best for beginners)

Blue Yeti – Excellent sound, multiple patterns

Samson Q2U – Inexpensive, includes accessories

XLR Microphones (Professional level — requires audio interface)

Audio-Technica ATR2100x – USB/XLR dual functionality; excellent if you have plans to grow in the future

Pro Tip: USB microphones are ideal if you're starting from scratch. XLR microphones sound better but take up additional equipment.

2. Headphones – Listen to Every Detail

Monitoring your sound catches errors such as background noise or clipping while recording.

Closed-back headphones are the best option as they avoid leakage of sound to the mic.

Budget: Sony MDR-ZX110

Mid-range: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

3. Audio Interface (Only For XLR Mics)
If you have an XLR mic, you'll require an audio interface to plug it into your computer.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – Industry standard, ultra-clean sound

Behringer UM2 – Budget starter option

Skip this if you have a USB mic!

4. Pop Filter or Windscreen – Silence the "Pops"
A pop filter minimizes harsh sounds resulting from "P" and "B" sounds.

Cheap and super effective

You may also use a foam windscreen for a minimal solution

5. Boom Arm or Mic Stand – Comfort Matters
A boom arm allows you to place your mic in a comfortable position and prevents vibrations from your desk.

Budget option: Neewer Boom Arm

Premium: Rode PSA1

6. Acoustic Treatment (Optional but Helpful)
You don’t need a soundproof studio — just a quiet room and some soft surfaces to reduce echo.

Record in a room with carpets, curtains, or pillows

Use foam panels or even DIY hacks like hanging blankets

7. Recording Software (DAW) – Where the Magic Happens
This is where you’ll record and edit your podcast.

Free Software:

Audacity – Great for all operating systems

GarageBand – Mac users’ favorite

Paid Options (More Features):

Adobe Audition

Hindenburg Journalist

8. Podcast Hosting Platform – Share Your Voice
Once your podcast is ready, you’ll need a platform to publish it to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.

Buzzsprout – Beginner-friendly, great support

Podbean – Affordable plans with analytics

Spotify for Podcasters – Free and growing in features

Bonus: Recommended Beginner Bundles
If you want an all-in-one option, search for podcast starter kits such as:

Samson Q2U Starter Kit – Mic, stand, pop filter, cables included

Rode NT-USB Mini Kit – Sleek and minimalist for plug-and-play recording

⚠️ Mistakes Beginners Make (and How to Avoid Them)
❌ Recording with a built-in laptop mic – Bad sound = listeners drift away

❌ Not using headphones – You'll miss background noise

❌ Room acoustics ignored – Echoes and noise destroy quality

❌ No pop filter in recording – Distracting plosives destroy audio clarity

Last Thoughts: Simple, Smart Starting – You don't have to break the bank or overcomplicate your initial setup. This podcasting equipment checklist has got you covered with everything you need to sound amazing on day one.

Keep in mind: Amazing content is worth more than high-end equipment. Begin with what you currently have, and invest as your podcast evolves.