Hi all, me and two other friends are talking about getting a podcast going. We're looking at doing in-person recordings once a month, probably 60-90 minute episodes. That being said, as with most projects like this, the recording is the easy part, the hard part is everything else. In this case, that involves getting the right equipment setup, editing, publishing, and promoting.

We're all new dads so we don't have a ton of time or money to invest in all of this, but we figure we can split the costs and responsibilities to make it happen. So, here's the things I'm hoping y'all can help with:

1. What's a good 3 person microphone setup? Looking for something inexpensive but decent quality and will ideally last a while before wearing out.

2. What would you suggest as far as editing goes? I have a new MacBook Air that I can use, so I'm hoping to find some inexpensive but passable software and, if possible, some resources to learn how to edit podcasts. I have some video editing experience if that helps.

3. Where should we publish the podcast? Are there any good ways to publish it to multiple platforms at once? Looking for something easy and low-cost. We don't need it to go to tons of different platforms, just a few major ones, including Spotify.

4. How should we promote it? We're not aiming to be big podcasters or anything, we just want to have some fun and reflect on our experiences with fatherhood so far. Obviously we'll make some social media accounts for the podcast, but we're looking to get the word out beyond that as well.

Thanks in advance!

So, I have a few quick questions for those that are more experienced than I am!

I have the possibility to do a podcast with 3 people (me+ 2 others), I have a scarlet 2i2 which I guess is okay for 2 people, but as I need something that is for 3 people I guess I need something different - does anyone have any recommendations?

Also, on that - as it has a singular output to the computer how do people mix voices so it sounds a bit better in general? Do you all record individually and then mix individually? On a sidenote, I am doing the same thing on streamyard and I am facing the same issue as the voices are way out in terms of volume.

Want to start podcasting & not sure what equipment we need. We’re all going to be in the same room and have a $400 budget. Thank you

My wife and I are wanting to start a podcast with video so we can upload to YouTube and clip shorts to Instagram and maybe TikTok. I already have a Macbook, two Shure SM7Bs, Rode Boom Arms, Two Cloudlifters, MOTU M4 interface, and all the cables. We are debating between sitting on chairs facing each other at an angle (A Really Very Crunchy Podcast) or sitting at a table facing each other (i.e Joe Rogan). We like the look of the chairs aesthetically but the sitting at the table allows us to have our laptops to look at while we do the podcast and we already have the equipment for this as well. Thoughts on this?

In regard to equipment: what kind of video and mic equipment do we need to start? Do we need 3 cameras or can we just start with one? Can we just start with something like a Logitech Brio 4k Webcam? Do we need video cameras with shotgun mics?

Thanks, we're just feeling a little overwhelmed trying to figure it all out!

I wanted to start a podcast with some friends from work. My goal is for maybe a car podcast and maybe some at home ones too with visuals and audio. This is mostly just for fun podcast, so I doubt I'll be hosting it on any official podcast sights. Mostly just posting them to YouTube and posting some more interesting clips on TikTok.

I bought some mics that can attach to my phone but I realized I didn't want to depend on others to send the audio back to me.

I was thinking about:

- 3 mics

- an audio recorder (do I need 3 for each person specifically or just one?)

I saw some audio mixers in some amazon packages but do I really need one? I'm not trying to be fancy just something that is a bit higher quality than just doing it on my phone but I'm not afraid of just using my phone either. Do you have any specific recommendations that I could look at? I want to keep my budget to about less than $100 but I understand if anything has to go higher.

Questions:

What are some things I should be aware of that beginners may not know about? Is there a protocol/system/tips you have so that there's no interruptions and everyone can have a turn talking? I remember trying to do a video via Discord and it was difficult when sometimes people talked over each other.

Thank you so much!

Hey Team, long time listener first time caller type thing here. Myself and 2 other friends record remotely and we have had the normal teething over our first 15 episodes but overall things are working.

We are hoping to all catch up together in October and want to do a podcast together. Potentially do it live as we will be covering a sports event (T20 Cricket World Cup if that’s your thing).

What sort of equipment would we need in person that we wouldn’t have remotely? My audio knowledge is rather limited so any help would be awesome!

Thank you!

Just querying, what microphone/software/etc... setup on the most audible, base level is required? I currently record through Anchor and use 1 blue snowball mic

Hey everyone, Just looking for some help. My freinds and I are looking to do a three person (same room) podcast. Any recommendations for setup? Budget : $150 Room : 20 by 20ft (sound proof walls)

My mom, sister and I are starting a podcast from our living room couch and are completely new to this. We plan to do audio and video and want to keep it simple for us.

For mics, I was thinking three Samson Q2U or Blue enCore 100s (holding the mics in hand) -- eventually upgrading to the Shure SM58. A Zoom H6 or Podtrak P4 to record audio into a 32gb sd card. And then just attaching my Sony a7sii or iPhone to a tripod to capture video and syncing the audio and video in post with adobe auditions & premiere.

Any suggestions on the mic and recorder or how I could fine-tune this? Any feedback would be appreciated.

Hey all. I am the IT person for our company. We have been tasked with setting up a 2-3 person podcast setup. Would mostly only be 2 people, but would like the ability to add a third.

We already have the room, which is a smaller 7ft x 12ft room. Was planning on putting some acoustical panels on wall (we already have those).

We plan to put a little table and 2-3 chairs around it.

Our budget is $800-$1000 for the hardware.

What mics/headphone and interface do you guys recommend for that budget?

Thanks!

Hey!

Recently my buddies and I have had an idea about starting our own podcast during the Covid-19 pandemic and I'm just trying to find a budget way to start that. Preferably under $300 if possible and portable as well because this would likely take place outside in someones backyard. I need 3 microphones, 3 windscreens, 3 XLR cables and some sort of audio interface all for under $300 hopefully. It would be great if the products were all fairly quality but at the same time not so expensive that if this podcast doesn't end up continuing for very long, I won't be regretting spending that money. Thanks a bunch!

So straight to the point im looking to set up a 3 person podcast using my iphone & ive a few questions.

Is it possible with one mic & everyone sitting around a Table chatting?

If not what is the ideal mic set up in your opinion?lavlier mics etc

I hope to video the podcasts using an iphone & single mic but if this isnt going to work then ideally,for an amatuer,what set up should i have for a laptop?

Basic stuff im sure but thanks in advance for any help on this!

We can't figure out what soundboard we should get and Mics. Also on a budget so a sound board that is $60 and under and mics around $30-$40.

Previous Parts: Part 1: Idea & Format | Part 2: Branding

This is the section of podcasting you can get stuck in a very deep rabbit hole. I tend to get very excited about this, so please feel free to tell me if I waffle on too much!

Realistically, a $100 USB microphone and a pair of earbuds are all you need to get started. As your podcast grows and you want to invest more, you can start improving the type of microphone you have and get accessories to achieve better quality. However with podcasting, content really is king, so don't get bogged down on which microphone to buy and just try to start.

Microphones

There are two main decisions when choosing a microphone:

• XLR or USB

• Condenser or Dynamic

USB microphones are the easiest to get started as you plug and play, but sometimes aren't the highest quality. XLR microphones need an interface to work with your computer but you have a higher ceiling for quality (basically you can just buy more expensive mics). Luckily for us, some cheeky manufacturers make microphones with both XLR and USB options, meaning you can start out with one and switch to the other if you'd like.

Condenser vs Dynamic microphones is a pretty easy one to choose between. Condensers are more sensitive, often require phantom power and require a well treated sound environment to sound good. Dynamic mics are more forgiving, often directional and give you that "radio" voice. For most podcasters who are recording in a regular room, a dynamic mic will be best for you. If you're recording in a studio with a nice interface, then you could opt for a condenser mic.

How much should you spend?

Honestly, I think the point of diminishing returns is at about $100. If you buy a microphone more expensive than this, I'm not sure the majority of people will be able to tell the difference. I bought a $400 Shure SM7B to replace my $100 Shure SM58 and I can barely tell the difference.

What about the Blue Yeti?

Many people default to the Blue Yeti as their first microphone, because it's often the only one they've heard of. Blue has been around for a while and has exceptional marketing, but I don't think it's the best option in its price range. It's a condenser microphone so it's not very forgiving and most will use it with the included stand. If you're set on a Blue Yeti or you've already bought one, the best way to make it sound good is to get it as close to your mouth as possible. Pick up a boom arm to put it on like the Rode PSA-1.

Headphones

Wearing headphones is something I overlooked when I started my podcast, but it's extremely beneficial to be able to monitor your own audio while recording. You don't particularly need an expensive pair, but ones that are comfortable for you would work fine.

If you record your podcast remotely, wearing headphones is essential. Any remote recording platform uses echo cancellation technology to stop one person's audio being recorded from the other person's speakers, but this makes the audio sound slightly compressed. Wearing headphones allows echo cancellation to be turned off to get the raw quality.

You don't need to spend any more than $100 on a pair of headphones. Most of our team uses Audio Technica M50X because they're comfortable, have a very accurate sound reproduction and look quite cool.

However, if you have an existing pair of Bose headphones, or even $10 earbuds, that should be enough to get you started.

Interfaces

If you get an XLR microphone, you'll need to invest in an audio interface to take the analogue XLR signal and turn it into a digital USB one, that you can then plug directly into your computer to record. These come in all different sizes and flavours, each with slightly different functionality.

The most simple and effective interface is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. It's the interface you'll see many podcasters using, because it has 2 XLR inputs, headphone monitoring, line outputs and a USB-C connection to your computer. You can pick one up for around $150.

Focusrite makes a whole range of USB interfaces, stretching from the Scarlett Solo (with 1 input) to the Scarlett 18i20 (with 18 inputs).

Recorders

If you'd like to record directly onto a device and an SD card, or if your podcast is in person and you won't have a laptop, you can get an XLR recorder.

The Zoom H6 is a fantastic option, with up to 4 inputs recorded onto separate tracks. This will set you back about $400. If you're stretched for budget then take a look at the Tascam DR-60 which will be available for around $180.

If you'd like a full mixing setup, then consider the Rode Rodecaster ($600) or the Zoom PodTrack P8 ($500). These podcast-specific mixers will give you lots of control for in-person podcasts (and you'll look like a badass while doing it). Most mixers and recorders that I've mentioned also have in-built interfaces so you can connect it to a computer to record.

Accessories

We're almost there on gear! There are a few essential accessories to go with your new microphone and some useful additional extras that you might want to consider.

Essential:

• XLR cables - $15. You'll need these to work with your XLR microphones. Don't go for the cheapest options, but anything around/over $15 will work well.

• Mic desk stand - $10. I've used the low-cost Neewer Desk Stand for many years and they've worked an absolute treat.

• Boom arm - $20. For many years I used this Neewer Boom arm which worked well for my lighter microphones. For an ATR 2100x or SM58, this will work great, but for a heavier microphone you'll want to upgrade. You can get a Rode PSA-1 or Blue Compass for $80, which will work great. I'm using Rode's stand in this video.

• Foam pop filters - $1 - $15. A foam pop filter is absolutely essential for stopping those plosives from hurting your listeners' ears. You can pick up a bag of these for a couple of dollars, but don't expect the greatest quality. Alternatively, you can get a more premium option from Rode, the WS2 for $15 or so.

Useful, but not essential:

• Shock mount - $50. If you're using a particularly sensitive microphone or you often hear tapping from your desk, it might be worth picking up a shock mount to remove any micro vibrations. The Rode SM-1 is a good option here.

• Cam Link - $20. If you record your show with video and you're investing in a DSLR, you can turn it into a webcam using a nifty $20 device. If you want a slightly higher-quality version then the Elgato Cam Link for $100 will be for you.

• Teleprompter - $80. When recording with video you can use a teleprompter so you're looking directly into the lens.

• Light panel / ring light - $50. In a particularly dark room it might be worth getting an LED light panel or ring light to improve the quality of your video.

That's it!

Part 4 soon!

If you want to go through all the parts right now, I'm posting the link in the comments.

I am trying to start a podcast that consists of 2 co-hosts and it will be in person. I want a more simple setup with a budget of around $1000 in total but would like it to stay as cheap as possible while still sounding good.

From my understanding, I need 2 microphones, headphones, an interface, and a computer? Please let me know if this is right and if so, what would yall recommend.

I was looking into Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen for interface. I am confused on where to connect headphones though considering there are two headphones and one port. I also don’t want the cohost forced to sit so close because of the one interface.

Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Hi there,

I’ll try to do a podcast with a friend. We’ll be sitting in the same room so I thought a single mic should be enough. But on on the other side it will be better to have two voice streams to cut things out. But… I’m kind of overloaded with all the options on the market. And we don’t have a lot of budget. Any ideas? Don’t want to spend (a lot) more the 500€. I’m already having a BeyerDynamics Fox (that’s not even good for a one mic thing. Right? For a two mic set I guess it’s working?). I have one pair of beyerdynamic headphones as well.

Any ideas and tips?

Thanks a lot

Hey guys. Give me your personal answer on what you would do. I’m starting a podcast and when I say budget is not a problem, budget is really not a problem. I’m going to be shooting anywhere from 2-4 hours. 2-3 consistent hosts with constant guests coming on. Typically between 1-5 guests. That being said, what equipment would you want to use and what software would you want to use

Hey all, pretty much 2 of my friends and I are going to start a podcast. Im just curious, we plan on buying shure sm7b’s with the focusrite Scarlett 4i4 but the 4i4 only has 2 inputs as well as the pre amp we plan on using (Cloudlifter CL-2) so could the third person just use a scarlett 2i2 and a cloud lifter cl-1? Would my DAW be able to recognize that I have 2 different audio interfaces plugged into my pc? And would everything work correctly. The main reason I ask is because I don’t think we want to get the focusrite 18i8 because it’s $100 more and we probably won’t be using the 4th input that often.

Hi! I'm looking for the best way to film a cinematic podcast set-up with three people. Two hosts, one guest. Attached is what I'm going for – which would be fairly easy if there were only two people..

I know I could have a round table and place three cameras in the middle pointing to each person, but it wouldn't be as "cinematic".

One idea I had was to have the two hosts sit close to each other, with a camera bang in the middle, filming the guest so we get his eyes to always be very close to the camera (which is desirable to connect more with the viewer), then one opposite, over his left shoulder.

The problem would of course be the camera would be in frame, but since it's on a tripod, one could easily use Runway or any AI program to remove the camera in post.

Any ideas? Thanks!

Edit (the pictures):
https://postimg.cc/fkH059g7
https://postimg.cc/H8L8dYj7

I'm starting a two-host podcast. We're gonna record in the same room. Is there a simple setup that we can buy, plug and play? Perhaps a one microphone that works for two people out of the box? Don't want to mess with preamps, XLR interfaces and stuff IF POSSIBLE (I'm kinda half expecting it won't be) – we are both busy and cognitively overloaded with life as it is. If one mic is not possible, what's the second simplest solution?