Podcast Starter Kits For All Budgets & Formats

Despite the ever-expanding world of podcasting, getting started can still seem daunting. But finding the right podcast starter kit for all budgets and formats doesn’t need to be a challenge.

There is bound to be the perfect kit for you regardless of budget, equipment preferences and more. 

Let’s explore options for different budgets and podcast formats to help you kickstart your audio journey.

Budget-Friendly Kits – $300 or less

1. Solo Podcast

Podcasts featuring just one presenter are the cheapest to set up. A simple podcast kit can be found at quite affordable prices and is perfectly suitable for a solo podcaster’s needs. 

What would be included?

• A USB microphone (e.g., Blue Snowball)
• A pop filter to help ensure better audio quality
• Headphones (e.g., Sony MDR-7506)
• Free recording software (e.g., Audacity)

A simple and complete set-up like this will give you professional podcasting audio quality without breaking the bank.

2. Interview Podcast (Remote)

If you are planning on hosting an interview-style podcast where you and your interviewee are not in the same place but rather connecting remotely, here is a breakdown of the type of podcasting equipment you need.

• A USB microphone (e.g., Blue Snowball)
• Headphones (e.g., Sony MDR-7506)
• Zoom subscription (or an alternative) for recording
• Zencastr or Squadcast subscription (for higher quality)

Mid-Range Kits – $800 or less

3. Multi-Host Show

If you are considering a podcast with more than one host, you will need to invest in a slightly more technologically sophisticated setup. More audio inputs, more sound sources and more participants require a little more consideration of sound quality. 

While this will cost more than a solo podcasting adventure, there are still ways to keep it within budget. Here’s what you will likely need:

• 2-3 XLR microphones (e.g., Shure SM58)
• Audio interface (e.g., Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or 4i4)
• Boom arms
• Pop filters
• Headphones for each host
• Basic acoustic treatment (foam panels for the walls or the like)

4. On-Location Podcasting

Now we are getting a little deeper into the world of sophisticated podcasting set-ups. Being on-location for your podcast, whether as a journalist or just to facilitate travelling, can expose your sound quality to weather and other affecting elements.

If you’re considering an in-the-field or on-location style podcast, it is worth investing in the following:

• Portable recorder (e.g., Zoom H5 or H6)
• 1-2 handheld dynamic microphones
• Windscreens
• Lightweight stands or handheld mic grips

High-End Kits ($800+)

5. Professional Set-ups

If you are ready and willing to invest in the best equipment available to achieve a truly professional set-up, this is what you can expect.

• High-end XLR microphones (e.g., Shure SM7B or Electro-Voice RE20)
• Professional audio interface (e.g., Universal Audio Apollo Twin)
• Studio monitor speakers
• Professional headphones
• Mixer (e.g., Rodecaster Pro II)
• Acoustic treatment (bass traps, diffusers)
• DAW software (e.g., Adobe Audition, Pro Tools)

6. Video Podcasting

Including video production in your podcast will also necessitate a greater investment in equipment kits and gear. In addition to the gear outlined in the Professional setup above, you will need the following:

• HD cameras (e.g., Sony A6400 or Canon EOS R)
• Lighting kit
• Green screen (optional)
• Video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro)

Finding the Right Podcasting Equipment

How do you determine which equipment and set-up is right for you? You can start by asking yourself the following questions.

• What is your budget for equipment?
• What podcast format do you intend to use?
• What is your technical expertise in sound and video creation?
• How portable do you need your equipment to be?
• Where do you plan on podcasting from?
• Do you need to build in future scalability?

 

The advantage of podcasting and associated equipment is that you can always start small and upgrade as your podcast grows. The most important thing is to have the gear necessary to enable you to begin creating content and connecting with your audience. 

Find the Right Podcasting Kits at DJ City

DJ City is one of Australia’s largest stockists of not just DJ equipment but podcast kits as well. We offer a range of microphones, headphones, audio interfaces and a whole lot more.

Our team is more than happy to help any podcaster, whether you’re a beginner and are just trying to learn the ropes or a more experienced user looking to upgrade. Our comprehensive product range is designed to provide podcasters with all the necessary tools to create high-quality audio content.

Microphones

DJ City stocks a variety of podcast microphones suitable for different budgets and requirements.

Boom Arms

Boom arms are available to help podcasters position their microphones correctly and comfortably near their mouth.

Headphones

DJ City offers headphones specifically suited for podcast monitoring and editing. As with microphones, there is a range of headphones available to suit all budgets and preferences. 

Podcast Starter Packs

For those budding podcasters who can’t choose between the many options available, we have you covered. We provide complete starter kits for beginners. For example, the Steinberg UR12BPS Podcast Starter Pack includes all of the essential equipment to get started with podcasting.

Audio Interfaces

Audio interfaces are often a crucial component in many podcast setups. They can help to manage and produce your audio.

Accessories

DJ City stocks various podcast-related accessories to complement our main equipment. If you’re planning on taking your podcast onsite, on location or on the road, you’ll certainly want to check out some of our travelling equipment too.

Need a hand? Get in touch! 

No matter your budget or podcast format, there’s a starter kit that can help you bring your ideas to life. From budget-friendly USB microphones to professional-grade studio setups, the world of podcasting is accessible to all. 

If you need assistance with choosing your kit, get in touch with DJ City today. We’ll help you set up and press record as soon as possible so that the world will be able to hear your voice!