From Idea to Launch: Creating Your Real Estate Podcast
Starting a project with little to no knowledge about the needed software or tools can be daunting.
Likewise, getting the necessary podcast equipment for your podcast setup usually becomes even more confusing if you're not well-versed with electronics or audio equipment. Whether you're launching a podcast on iTunes or Spotify, there are several things to decide for your podcast setup.
Although you can technically start a podcast with your phone alone, we don't recommend this. Instead, use better podcast equipment to publish episodes with professional sounds.
This guide contains the best podcasting equipment list to help you build a dedicated podcast recording studio.
What Types of Podcasts Are You Recording?
The first step is to determine what kind of podcast you're recording. Podcasts vary in complexity, including simple formats like a traditional single-host podcast, to a podcast with numerous co-hosts or guests. Other options include storytelling podcasts, webinar-style educational podcasts, or news-reporting podcasts.
Each of these options requires slightly different podcast equipment. For instance, if you have more interview subjects or co-hosts involved, you'll need more mics. Begin by making this pivotal decision before developing a podcasting equipment list.
What Equipment Do You Need to Start a Podcast?
Computer
The first piece of podcast equipment you need is a computer. After all, that's where the magic occurs — from audio capture to editing, export, and publication. Podcast recording isn't as demanding as music production, so what you have might be enough.
Microphones
One of the primary reasons you need to be specific when choosing podcast equipment is that not just any microphone works — especially not the built-in mics on your phone, camera, or computer. Those microphones easily pick up background noise and ambient sound and may sound less professional.
USB Microphones vs. XLR Microphones
The most effective options for recording higher-quality audio are USB microphones and XLR microphones. Most beginner podcasters opt for USB mics, and they require minimal setup and are easy to use — simply plug the USB mic into your computer and begin the podcast recording process.
But if you have multiple individuals joining the show or want more flexibility, you'll need XLR mics. The number of mics you'll need depends on your preferred podcast format.
Headphone
You'll often find recording artists and podcasters use headphones while recording. Headphones are vital to your podcast equipment as they serve as an audio monitor.
It may feel weird hearing your voice, but it's the most effective way to monitor the audio quality in real time and make any necessary adjustments to produce better sound quality.
While some podcast hosts use earbuds, we recommend using closed-back headphones for a professional podcast studio. It prevents the sound produced in your earpieces from reaching your microphone.
Shock Mount
When you type on the keyboard, re-position or move your microphone, or drop a pen on your table, the movements may cause vibrations that translate into podcast recording as short, sharp noises. Remember — mics are highly-sensitive to surface vibrations.
A shock mount will help absorb the vibrations before they reach your mic. Ensure to get a shock that's compatible with your microphone.
Pop Filter
A windscreen or pop filter is another vital podcast equipment that produces quality vocals. The pop filter prevents or minimizes "plosives," such as the T' and 'P' sounds, and it absorbs those powerful air blasts before the sound hits the microphone.
Headphone Amplifier
All the guest speakers on your podcast recording will need a headphone monitor. A headphone amplifier (with multiple channels) will accommodate multiple headphone jacks and maximize each headphone's sound quality potential.
Mic Stand
A mic stand is essential when setting up your pop filter and microphone. But that's not its only use — a mic stand also helps position the microphone properly to avoid bending downwards or forward while trying to speak into the mic.
If you're on a tight budget or don't have a particular type of mic stand in mind, you'll find several affordable tabletop options, such as the K&M 23325. On the other hand, bendable desktop boom mic stands allow more flexibility. For instance, the Rode PSA1 frees up desk space to quickly reposition the microphone without twisting any knobs.
Audio Interface
Most recording studios typically have an audio interface. You'll need an affordable audio interface when setting up your podcast studio. An audio interface converts your mic's inputs from audio to digital signals, allowing you to transfer them to a computer.
Although you can plug some USB mics directly into a computer, some podcasters opt for an audio interface to maintain the original audio quality instead of depending on their laptop's sound card for critical audio conversion.
Most audio interfaces feature multiple output and input channels, allowing you to record from different podcast equipment, including instruments and microphones.
Digital Audio Recorder
A digital audio recorder is another essential piece of podcast equipment for interviews outside of your podcast studio. You can capture and save audio to your microSD card.
We recommend getting an affordable dedicated digital recorder for podcasting, as it can still record higher-quality sound than your external microphone or smartphone. Several smartphones, like some iPhone models, no longer include a headphone or microphone jack.
Cables
If you want to use a mixer, preamp, audio interface, or all the above-mentioned podcast equipment, you'll need the proper cables for your instruments and microphones.
Instead of using just any cable, get high-quality XLR cables for your mics to significantly minimize audio disruptions.
Mixer
Every podcaster needs to know the differences between mixers and audio interfaces, though they seem to do the same. A mixer gives you more control over the inputs, outputs, and sound levels to help you record higher-quality audio.
Most DAWs (digital audio workstations) can master and mix multiple sound channels on your PC. While some podcasters prefer to do it manually, you often have no choice, especially when you have call-in or remote guests.
Internet
Another vital component to include in your podcasting equipment list is reliable Internet. The Internet is crucial to uploading your podcast recording (especially if you record video podcasts). According to the Federal Communications Commission, the recommended Internet speed for podcasts (or any Internet speed, especially when sharing the Internet with other users) is at least 12 MB per second.
Soundproofing Materials
All recording studios need an acoustic touch. The extent depends on how much reverb or echo is present, apart from the external noise (if any) entering the room. You can fix acoustic panels on the walls of your podcast studio.
Memory Storage Devices
It's always advisable for audio producers to export any large audio files that aren't immediately useful to an external hard drive so their PC's internal memory can work faster during audio editing, export, and import. But as a podcaster, you can begin with a smaller portable hard drive or USB thumb drive and upgrade later.
Podcast Recording Software
Skype
Skype allows you to record audio and video during your podcast. It's an excellent option for beginner podcasters because it's easy to use and free.
Zoom
Zoom is a free video and audio recording platform. Zoom and Skype have fairly similar features. However, they have different recording files. Skype offers a mono file — you and your guest's part of the conversation will be on a single audio track. But Zoom splits them, giving you separate audio tracks.
Pro Tools
While Pro Tools is great for recording, it's also an advanced editing software, allowing you to record, mix and edit numerous audio files.
However, it's for advanced audio editors/recorders. Pro Tools has more robust features that allow you to create music for your podcast.
Ringr
This recording software is ideal for broadcast interviews and long-distance podcasts. Ringr is a great choice for those looking to record higher-quality sound at their podcast interview, though it's not free.
The basic plan offers a mono audio file with unlimited storage and calls.
Zencastr
This web-based podcast recording software offers automatic post-production, automatic cloud backup, and live sound editing. Zencastr recently launched a video recording feature, and it also has built-in footnote and chat features, allowing you to share information with producers and guests easily.
Reaper
Reaper is an advanced recording, mixing, and editing software. Although it's less user-friendly than programs like Zoom and Skype, it offers high-quality sound. The recording feature offers several audio formats, recording tracks, and simultaneous recording inputs.
Podcast Editing Software
After recording your podcast, you'll need to edit it. Some software (as mentioned above) includes both editing and recording capabilities. Here are some tools used primarily for editing.
Audacity
Audacity is a free podcast editing software. The UI is beginner-friendly and easy to use. However, the platform's simplicity makes it difficult to move audio around or create numerous cuts.
This option is ideal for beginners due to the simple copy, paste, and cut functionality.
Adobe Audition
Adobe Audition is a mid-level editing software that allows you to create, record, edit, restore, and edit audio content. It features a podcast template that helps you create a multi-track recording for easy editing and mixing of different voices and audio tracks.
Descript
Descript is a text-based video and audio editing software. When you upload your audio file to the platform, it transcribes it and allows you to make adjustments in real-time.
This platform also allows you to add more words to an audio file by typing.
Podcast Hosting Platforms
After producing your podcast episodes, you'll still need to publish them on a hosting site. Here are some hosting service providers we recommend.
Anchor
Anchor is an easy-to-use podcast hosting platform owned by Spotify. It allows users to publish, monetize, and create podcasts in one place. Anchor's standout feature is its advanced analytics system. You can access in-depth metrics to know your audience's listening behavior. This information can help you create more content to suit your audience.
Anchor offers monetization options, including paid subscriptions, dynamic ad spots, and host-read ads.
BuzzSprout
BizzSprout is a great hosting site that lets you list your podcast on every top podcast directory, including Spotify, Stitcher, Google, and Apple.
It also offers advanced metrics, allowing you to monitor the progress of each podcast. You can view statistics about total plays and your listeners' locations. BuzzSprout also enables you to transcribe your podcast.
The paid plans offer unlimited episode hosting and storage.
Libsyn
Libsyn is a top hosting platform for publishing your podcasts on your target audience's favorite platforms and apps.
It has a unique feature—monetization options. For instance, it offers opt-in advertising and premium content subscriptions.
You can also access your audience statistics to know where to make adjustments in subsequent podcasts.
FAQs
Most popular podcasts cost a fortune, but beginner podcasters don't need fancy cameras or audio equipment to get started. You can start a podcast for free with the right podcast equipment: a laptop, Internet, and smartphone. But you might want to consider investing in even an affordable starter mic from the onset knowing that higher-quality sound is crucial to retaining listeners.
When you have money to invest, consider adding other podcast equipment, such as audio-editing and headphones. Also, several successful podcasters outsource their recordings to a sound editor for more professional results. So, while anyone can begin a podcast for free, investing a little to look professional and polished is better. The more authentic your podcast brand sounds and looks, the higher your chances of getting sponsors.
Parting Shot
Several podcast equipment are necessary to get your podcast program up and running. However, finding the best podcasts equipment can be quite challenging with the numerous available tools.
That's why we took our time to develop this list of the best podcasting equipment for beginners to help you make an informed buying decision regardless of your budget.
Do you need further guidance on how to podcast your way to the top of your real estate career? At Icons of Real Estate, we are masters in podcasting for real estate, and we're here to help you if you’re interested in dipping your toe into the exciting world of real estate podcasts. Our expert podcast producers and coordinators can assist you with planning and producing a high-quality show and reaching a larger audience to establish yourself as a leading voice in your local market. Book a call with us to find out more about it!