on September 01, 2025
Starting your podcasting journey is exciting, but choosing the right gear can feel overwhelming. Instead of grabbing a pre-made bundle, you can build your own custom podcast starter kit tailored to your style, budget, and goals. This way, you get the flexibility to mix and match the best gear while avoiding extras you don’t need. Here’s how to put it together step by step.
1. Choose the Right Microphone
Your microphone is the heart of your kit. Beginners often start with a USB microphone like the Blue Yeti because it’s easy to plug and play. If you want more control and plan to upgrade later, an XLR microphone such as the Shure SM7B or RØDE PodMic is a professional choice.
2. Add a Boom Arm and Pop Filter
A boom arm keeps your mic steady while a pop filter reduces harsh “P” and “B” sounds. This setup improves sound quality and keeps your hands free while recording.
3. Get Headphones for Monitoring
Monitoring your audio live helps you catch background noise or volume issues. Closed-back headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x or budget-friendly options such as the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are reliable picks. Check out our guide on choosing the right headphones for more options.
4. Use an Audio Interface or Mixer
If you’re using an XLR microphone, you’ll need an audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or a mixer like the RØDECaster Pro II. These devices give you professional-quality sound and flexibility to add multiple mics.
5. Set Up Acoustic Treatment
A great mic can still sound bad in a noisy room. Add basic acoustic panels or even DIY foam solutions to reduce echo and reverb. Recording in a smaller space with soft surfaces also helps.
6. Don’t Forget the Extras
- Travel cases if you’re mobile
- Extra XLR and USB cables
- A backup SD card if you record externally
7. Build for Your Style
If you’re podcasting solo, a simple USB mic, headphones, and pop filter might be enough. For interviews, you’ll want a multi-input mixer and additional microphones. If you record on the go, consider a mobile podcasting kit.
Final Thoughts
Building a custom podcast starter kit doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the essentials—microphone, headphones, and recording setup—then expand as your podcast grows. By tailoring your gear to your needs, you’ll save money and ensure professional-quality sound from day one.
