(Part 2) Top products from r/podcasts

OK. The Scarlett 2i2 that was recommended is likely the best audio quality for the money but is explicitly limited to two audio inputs/mics. It is also not appropriate for multiple people and Skype.

If you were talking about only local hosts there are several options from mixers to audio interfaces to dedicated recorders. Introducing Skype or similar means that you will need a Mixer or higher end audio interface.

Question, what will you be recording to? I assume a computer, a laptop or some such. Will you want a separate audio track for each host/skype guest? It's cheap to do this with two people. Getting the separate tracks for three or four moves things up a few hundred dollars.

If you are willing to edit the tracks with the audio not separated when you have three people on at a time, you will need a mixer. The base model to look at would be a Behringer Q1202USB (~$100, prices will be US off Amazon unless you provide a different suggestion). There are other mixers that cost more. I myself own a Mackie ProFX12 ($280 for the V2 current model). There is a wide price difference based on reputation and perceived quality. You likely would not see a difference but similar mixers can go over $1000. The Behringer will work for what you are going.

Now, if you want an audio track for each of up to four people, then you are talking about the Scarlett 18i8 ($350) or the Behringer UFX1204 ($400). The Scarlett is more complicated in this case as it is a software controlled Audio Interface and the Behringer is virtually identical physically to the other mixers I mentioned. I currently use the bigger brother to this Scarlett. This is the price point to get three or four tracks recorded simultaneously. It can help in editing but may not matter all that much to you.

I love the Audio-Technica ATR2100 and it's sibling mics as a starter mic but do not suggest them in your case as you will be starting with a mixer or interface. I would suggest on a budget a three pack of Behringer XM1800S mics ($40) or move up to the Shure SM58 ($100 each). The Shure is a rock solid standard mic. The three pack of XM1800S mics are knockoffs of the SM58 and do not sound bad. Without going to >$300 a mic I think those are the best options.

Pop filters can be either the foam balls like the Shure A58WS ($6, multiple colors available) or actual pop filters like this for $8

http://www.amazon.com/Dragonpad-filter-Microphone-Flexible-Gooseneck/dp/B008AOH1O6/

Actual pop filters are slightly better but bulky. The Shure wind screens as thicker than other cheaper versions for other manufactures and I suggest them.

Stands depend a lot on what you want. They should have a 5/8" end (there is a 3/8" standard as well. Everything I mention will be threaded for 5/8" but there are adapters.). A desk stand like the On-Stage DS7200B ($13) or the On-Stage DS300B ($18) are nice enough. There are also floor stands, boom arms. Depends on what you want, really.

The cables will be Balanced XLR cables. Depends on the length you need. These will be ~$10-15 for a reasonable length. Any decent brand will do.

The Behringer mics have basic mic clips included. I use an On-Stage MY-420 shock mount ($31) myself on each stand instead to reduce vibration transferred to the mic. You can see if that's needed or not and use a basic mc clip instead.

Software depends on what you are comfortable with from the Free Audacity

http://audacityteam.org

To Reaper to Adobe Audition. Really, what ever the editor likes. There are lots of software suggestions I could make. It all depends.

When doing a Skype call, I like using the Behringer UCA 202 (or UCA222, different color, $30) and two RCA to 1/4" TS unbalanced cables of the shortest length convenient. Use this as the audio device for Skype and connect it to the mixer/interface.

The Sony MDR7506 ($80) are industry standard headphones. I use an Audio-Technica set myself. You may need a headphone preamp to split the signal to three phone like the Behringer HA400 ($25). Really these are to your taste. There are cheaper phones but it's a question of budget.

Did I miss anything you are looking for?

!

In all honesty I think any mic should work out. all you have to keep in mind is that although the mic does play a big role, the DAW (editing software) plays an even bigger role. I recorded my first 10 episodes with this set up. unfortunately the audio quality is different from one episode to an other but thats only because i tried different things while I edited the audio.

​

The mic is the Neewer-700. I'm from Canada so this is the link i got it. hopefully you can find it where you are located

https://www.amazon.ca/Neewer-Professional-Broadcasting-Microphone-Adjustable/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1536802291&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=microphone&psc=1

​

The mic in this is technically around 20 dollars. this mic is a more sensitive mic so you will need to play around with your gain (the knob on your mixer or audio interface) that changes the sensitivity of your mic.

​

I strongly believe either one of your choices will work out great. work with what you have and as you learn new things you will realize which direction you want to go with your audio. That was honestly the way I learn how to do it.

​

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask me. I would be more than happy to help out a fellow podcaster (keep in mind im also new at this and still learning new things).

​

Take care,

Well start at the beginning. People notice high quality recordings. If you listen to your Pod on headphones, crappy mics then get compressed to crappy MP3s is tedious to listen to.

If there are 2 or you, plan on spending a couple hundred bucks to solve this.

I use Sterling ST-51 Condenser mics- You can generally get them on sale at Guitar Center for $70 bucks. Here is a link to amazon

After you get that you'll need two XLR cables
After that you'll need some sort if interface. I have never had more than four people on my podcast, but the nature of podcasting generally means you'll get good a production, go as big as you can early, someone somewhere will want to pay you to produce for them. It's better to have the flexibility out of the box then have to cluge around with shitty hardware. However if you're on a tight budget there are other things you can get. Audio to computer interfaces give you more flexibility because you can add things like music live during a recording from other devices, allow you to use Skype (which isn't obvious when you have high quality mics and interfaces) I trend toward Focusrite, they make Bad Ass equipment. The Scarlett series works well for me. They don't have a loop back feature, but if you get that far let me know and ill tell you how to do it for the cost of a $1 RCA cable.

You can get linear PCM recorders Here and Here for about the same money as an audio interface, so its your call. They put it all in one package, but in the long run I think you'll end up getting tired of moving large files to your software for editing. I use the Tascam DR-40 and give it to people who are traveling - it is STELLAR and less than anything else on the market, because its old. But it's record out of the box- Easy.

Now Software- Ive used pay versions of Cakewalk. Ive used Audacity, which is great but clunky. I have landed on Reaper. It is the most full featured, open, continually updated, solid, go to, piece of software you can find. They're not dumb, they let you download a fully functioning copy for free. Its Not hampered in anyway. If you don't buy a license then you have to sit through a click away every time it opens. Better yet, just try it for a while, then you will appreciate it and want to buy the $60 license for small business or home use. Brilliant in every way.

That set up will last you for years and give you virtually pro quality production capability.

TL;DR
Mics (and Cables) Sterling ST-51 or similar (less than $100 ea)
Audio interface ( Many in, Many out, USB 2, Focusrite or Tascam)
Software (There can only be one, Reaper, Hands down)


Edit: My pods are at Defensesecurity.org , Homeready.org and Renman24.com - if you listen to the first ones and then listen to the latest ones you'll notice my equipment improvement, and editing style change. Its a muscle, work it out and it'll get better.

Edit 2: spelling and links
Edit 3: Links again

You will need some boom arms, which you can get pretty cheap, but you shouldn't need a full pop filter. It's already fairly good at getting rid of plosives, so you can just get the cheap foam covers and they will work fine. I don't think there is a huge difference between the H4N and the H4N Pro, at least not that will make a difference for this mic. I have the H5 (which gives pretty much the same gain as the H4N pro I think) and it works fine for anything but a few of the dynamics that need tons of gain, like the Sure SM7B, so you should be good with that for an interface.

Here are my recommendations:


Books on making radio:

• Out on the Wire taught me different formulas for how to write a good story. I give it 4 stars, it was great!
  
• Sound Reporting is like the NPR handbook. It covers all the different roles people have when making a radio show and goes into detail on how everyone completes their task. Everything from ways to book guests, to what a producer does, to how to sound like you aren't reading on the air. 4 stars too, great book!
  
  
• Reality Radio is a book containing short 1 off stories from many famous radio hosts (mostly from NPR). If you want the audio version that is very much abridged, you can check out these 4 audio clips from different conferences: Reality Radio: Events Reality Radio: Bob Edwards Reality Radio: 7th Ave Reality Radio: Songs
  
  
• Radio Diaries (Free) is both a physical book and I linked to their free book. It teaches you how to turn a personal story into a good radio show. Really great tips here and super quick to read! 5 stars!
  
  
  For marketing and promoting I recommend Gary Vaynerchuck's Crush It, or any book by Seth Godin. Gary will motivate you to make something that kicks ass, and Seth will teach you ways to market it successfully. Neither talk about podcasting, it's just marketing in general.
  

Uhm Behringer Xenyx Q802USB together with the Neewer NW-700 (Go with the kit). Would be a total of $90 +$27. Its a great starter combo, you could even get 2 mics on that mixer, but they require a treated room to get their full potential (Otherwise they are still good but more tinkering with the EQ settings on the mixer).

Another mic option would be the Samson C01. I have the USB version of this one, and regret not buying the XLR version. I LOVE my usb one and have had it for 7 years or so. The quality of the mic is great even in an untreated room like mine. The downside of both microphones is that they are condensers so they pick up a lot of everything that happens, unfortunately generally dynamic microphones are more expensive.

The Shure SM58 is a dynamic mic that would just fit your budget together with the mixer at around $100. Don't really have experience with this one myself, but its very very popular.


Before making any decisions go on youtube and listen to samples of these mics for example on podcastage or other channels reviewing them to hear the sound for yourself. Also look at some reviews for the mixer. Never make an uninformed decision, in the end, sound is a bit of preference as well (and it differs for everyone).

We had a discussion with some high school students in Zurich a few months back. Some of their questions might give you ideas as to what developing broadcasters wanted to know after hearing some of our podcasts. The link is right here.

As a former "telecommunications" student, I was disappointed that I only learned some basics about editing, but not much about effective storytelling, fact-checking, booking guests/interviews, inflection/speech, and layouts/scripting.

Most of what we picked up was by creating the podcast and finding resources like this book. I would have loved to have had a teacher explain how to create good podcasts before we started on ours.

Edit Also: I did a group project to create a "This American Life" style piece. It was really lackluster because we had to use audio that other people gathered and some people didn't have to record anything at all. I think you may be better served by having the students do individual 5-15 minute features as opposed to massive hour-long Radiolab-style productions because many of the people that make popular podcasts don't even do full hour-long shows. Hour long shows are great if you have a good, reliable staff with well-defined roles, but it can be a little unwieldy with students.

First, I suggest you continue holding a single mic and pointing it between you and your guest. That keeps you in control of the conversation.

I now use and like the Electro Voice RE50N/D-L ($200). Yes, it's a bit pricey, but it's really nice! It has a long handle that means your arm will be much more comfortable holding the mic. The capsule is internally shock-mounted to reduce handling noise. The neodymium is more sensitive and requires less gain from your recorder, and thus introduces less hiss. The omnidirectional nature is handy for ensuring you're always capturing the voice of the other person without having to point the mic precisely at them.

However, a more directional mic could be better in noisy environments. There, I might recommend the Sennheiser MD46, which I've used in my NAB Show videos from 2015.

But I was also quite impressed with what I got from a Zoom H1 at NAB Show 2016. It's much smaller than the DR-40.

Lastly, you could consider recording into an iPhone with Sennheiser's upcoming HandMic Digital.

I've been thinking about your request all day as I replaced the water pump, alternator, thermostat and belt in my son's car. I'm not sure I can give you an option to fit your requirements for $300 mostly because the recorder alone is going to eat the majority of your budget.

Since you need three microphones I thought about the $270 Zoom H5 Portable Digital Recorder plus the $70 Zoom EXH-6 Dual XLR/TRS Capsule but that is $340 total plus you lose your ability to record the "ambiance" sounds you are looking for.

Instead I would recommend the Zoom H6 which you can find occasionally on sale for $299. But this would give you up to 4 XLR microphone inputs AND the ability to record the factory sounds with the X-Y microphone capsule or the omni-directional capsule that comes standard with the H6.

Now because the budget is COMPLETELY blown on the H6 recorder I can offer a 3 pack of Behringer XM1800S for $40. These microphones are serviceable but if you are looking for much better sound I'd opt for one of these four microphones:

Knox Podcast Microphone

Audio Technica AT2005

Audio Technica ATR-2100

or a Samson Q2U

The Knox goes for $40. each one of these microphones come with a stand which you'd need plus they all have USB capability so you could use them with your mobile device in a pinch - but you can only use one of them at a time.

If you are interested in looking completely professional I'd recommend the $200 Sennheiser MD-46 interview microphone with these [Nu-Era Tabletop Microphone Stands) for $7 a piece. I used the H6, MD-46 and Nu-Era Stands at a convention last weekend and it worked sweet indeed.

If you need another microphone solution that better fits your budget let me know. I have dozens that i can recommend depending on what you are willing to spend.

I feel like I must apologize for not being able to stick to your $300 budget. The recorder is the tough part and I'm finding it difficult to work around it for your need case.

Did I hit the mark or miss it completely?

You could always try this Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM1800S Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphones, 3-Pack (at 30-40 bucks a pop you can buy two for SIX mics) and TASCAM DR-40, and as many of these splitters as you need. We've put our mics into these splitters and they work splendidly. You'll also need XLR cables for the mics as well. If you have two friends who are louder than everyone else I guess you could also buy a mixer for a little more control.

Anyways, I have the DR-40, Behringer mics, and the splitters. They work pretty damn well for how cheap you can get them. You get great portability, as well.

A lot of these guys are probably a lot more pro than me, so they're probably the ones to listen to if you want to be super legit. If you are on a budget, though, I can confirm that this setup works quite well! Minus the mixer you could probably get everything for six people having a their own mic for ~$300.

Edit: The DR-40 comes with a 2GB memory card but you might want to upgrade it a little bit just in case. SD cards are pretty cheap now, though!

Edit Edit: You'll also want some stands, too... and these windscreens.

It might end up around like $300-$400 bucks. But when some of those Blues cost $100 per mic for the cheapest ones, it's kinda a good deal for all of the stuff you'll get. Also, if podcasting doesn't work out you now have all the equipment to start a karaoke bar.

I'm pretty sure the problem you are having is trying to use multiple USB microphones on one computer. There are ways to do it, but even when you get it set up, it's a completely unreliable set up and you will findself regularly having technical troubles and losing recordings from crashing software.

Ideally you should record to a dedicated audio recorder like a Zoom or a Tascam, they are the most reliable.

If you want to record to a computer, you need a usb mixer and xlr microphones. Behringer can get you started for cheap, if your podcast becomes successful you can upgrade to better quality later.

The q1202 USB mixer is a great cheap place to start.

You can grab yourself a 3 pack of microphones as well. They aren't amazing but they will sound better then an expensive condenser microphone in a room where you can't control the sound (aka open plan living spaces).

I am not too familiar with hosting and feeds, but learning on Audacity is your best choice here. Depending on how many guests you want (I assume 2) grab two of these Nady SP-1 kits. They are awesome because the come with a nice mic stand with boom arm, greatcable, and a nice mic for the ultra low price. I use the Zoom H4n to record my podcasts since I do not have a mixer.

This Nady MSC3 kit is nice too, but the cable produces too much of a hum and the mic stand feels cheap.

Edit: This kit will get you off the ground for about $260 and it should last a long time. The mic kit is cheap enough that if a kid breaks it, you can just buy a new one. Make sure kids don't touch the H4n; that isn't cheap.

With a $500 to $700 budget I might suggest the following. Steer clear of the "packaged podcast stuff". And others will have their own opinions and thoughts but here are mine.

Recorder: Zoom H4nPro $230. Portable, flexible, will accept up to 4 inputs. Records on a SD Card.

Software: Audacity. It is free and allows you to manipulate and put together a cohesive product.

Mics: 2 of the ATR 2100 USB $150. Again, flexible and a decent beginner mic.

Accessories needed. 2 wind screen/pop filters for mics ($20), 2 mic stands ($20), 2 XLR cables for mics ($25)

Headphones: Sony MDR7560 $80 2 might be nice, but 1 required.

That is about $550 to $600 at this point.

If you wanted a studio mic, a decent starter mic is the MXL 990 at $100/ea. But beware that this is a condenser mic and it will pick up a ton of ambient sound especially in a non-treated room.

You may want to add a mixer into the mix at some point. I have a Behringer Xenyx 1204USB $139, but wish I had known more when I bought it and I would have bought the Behringer UFX1204 with the difference being that the one I have sends out a single stereo track to the recorder, but the latter has the ability to send separate tracks. Woudl be very handy if your guest is VERY soft spoken, there is a lot of talk over one another, etc.

That's what I assumed too but in the Q&A under the product on Amazon I found someone who asked a similar question, and it sounds to me like the USB does NOT act as phantom power. It makes no sense to me why that wouldn't power it but ....

Looks like I'll either need to try tunnelsup's idea, using the box I have or just get a new mic. If my box doesn't work, I think I'd sooner buy a new mic than spend $100 on the box he linked, since my current mic is likely not that great compared to one I could get for ~$100, and not have to mess with the extra equipment.

Something like:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AIQGUO/ref=sxbs_sxwds-stvp_3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3341940462&pd_rd_wg=usvQf&pf_rd_r=MYY3HVKDYCKQ5X1C7WDV&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-bottom-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B001AIQGUO&pd_rd_w=rztVA&pf_rd_i=cardioid+dynamic+mic&pd_rd_r=dd2399dd-3576-490a-850b-74a9ce98bea6&ie=UTF8&qid=1510069656&sr=3

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015MJE22/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wirerealm-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0015MJE22&linkId=48aeb14c54c5e3fdb71465825fa1b06b

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072PR6W8P/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002VA464S&linkCode=as2&tag=wirerealm-20&th=1

All but 1 cost less than the box, and have great reviews. Proven to sound great and work out of the box direct to PC.

I use anchor its awesome, the support team is always really helpful and quick, plus they post almost everywhere.

If you already have a mac book tho you can record right into it. if your budget is around 1000 you can get some nice stuff. My set up rn is just a zoom H6 and two audio technica mics and a pop. If you want a nice headset thats not too expensive I like these.

The zoom is nice because it can double as a mixer and it portable, the mic can plug into your computer through usb so your not just stuck recording into the zoom.

Don't know if this will apply to your needs/budget/expertise, but here's how I record Culture Vultures Radio. (Add a dot com to that to find our site.)

• Mics are Audio-Technica AT2020USB which is a large diaphragm condenser which don't require a mixer and phantom power. They're about $130 at Amazon.
  
• Using a mid-2009 model MacBook Pro which I've upgraded to 8GB RAM and an SSD. Have used Yosemite and Mavericks.
  
• A Behringer headphone amp/splitter to convert the one output from the MBP to 4 headsets.
  
• Using Reaper DAW to record. I couldn't figure out GarageBand to save my life for some reason, so I started using the recording software I already had a license for.
  
• Pop filters! These are generic cheapo units (~$6.50) and they work fine. My co-host used to like to blow the mics by doing the Stewie on Family Guy "Wil Wheaton" thing and it totally blocks that.
  
  The tricky part was setting up the aggregate audio device to pipe in the mics into Reaper. It's funky and it took me a couple of hours to get two freaking mics working - haven't tried a third yet - but it worked out.
  
  To save space on the HD, I set up Reaper to print the tracks as MP3s at 192kbps instead of WAVs. I apply compression and limiting when I record to get a nice solid level. When I'm done, I transfer the project folder to my bruiser of a gaming PC and apply an expander to the tracks to minimize mic bleed and background noise like fans or furnace/AC (we record in a basement). On mixdown, I hit the music track and the overall mix with master bus compression to make it nice and full-sounding with even levels.
  
  It's a slightly involved process to do, but I think the results and quality control are worth it. We used to go into the Internet radio station's studios to do the show live and just put the recording out as the podcast, but they tripled the studio fee and I calculated that if I bought my gear and sent them a file to air, it would pay for itself in 13-14 shows; we've done 18 so far. Bonus is that when the studio was stifling hot in the summer when the AC broke down and they've been having chronic technical problems affecting audio quality, it hasn't impacted us. We miss the live feedback from the listeners and it takes much longer to produce a show, but it's a tighter product overall.
  
  Hope this helps someone, if not your specific needs. Cheers.

Most computers can't deal with 8 USB mics at once, on top of the fact those mics don't work well all in the same room together. I would get a USB XLR mixer and some dynamic mics.

8 people seems like a lot? This mixer goes up to 6 via XLR and is pretty affordable. Behringer is an "affordable" brand.

Speaking of Behringer, these mics are pretty decent for the price. They will slightly pick up others in the room, but nothing a simple gate in post can't fix. I don't know your budget, but if you want to get fancier, you can go with the MXL BCD-1.

I use the Focusrite 18i20, it's way more pricey.


I enjoy using Reaper.FM, it's $79 on both Mac/PC. It can record your software and edit it. I'm on Mac, I record everything with Audio Hijack first, then do my post in Reaper.

If you have more questions, let me know. I can get more specific with other stuff if you care.

I use that mixer for my podcast. Bought it off Craigslist for 40 bucks about four years ago and it's still going strong. It gets the job done and I really have no need to upgrade. But like others have said:

• Don't record with an onboard soundcard. You'll pick up a ton of static (I learned the hard way).
  
  
• If you can save up for a USB mixer it's probably a better choice.
  
  But like I said, that's the mixer I use, granted I didn't pay $90 for it. The way I'm able to record to my PC is with this Behringer USB audio interface. Sure it's a lot more cables, but it was a much cheaper alternative back when I was starting up and didn't have the funds for a USB mixer. I would check your local craigslist or eBay for some used Behringer or Mackie mixers, both are built to last and there are some great deals to be had. Spend the extra money you save on better mics and you'll be on your way. If you're the paranoid type you can always invest in a digital recorder for back up, since someone else mentioned there's always a risk the program or PC will crash. Hasn't happened to me yet, but you never know. Be sure to let us know when your first episode is up!

Your budget was right around what we spent, although we didn't use a mixer cause we do everything through skype and record locally. So that said all the stuff below if for a non-mixer set-up, maybe it works with a mixer, idk.

The Blue Yeti is a good mic for the price. It is not a professional mic by any stretch, but for $100 it's about as good as you are going to get, imo. Blue also has a snowball, for $50 which I actual have one of but have not yet tested in terms of recording quality.

The stand you can get for cheap. This one is the one I use, it screws right into the bottom of the Yeti.

Headphones I would actually recommend not going cheap on. We had this issue in one of our early podcasts where I broke out a $15 pair of cheap sony headphones and you could hear the audio I heard through the mic. I use these now, they're amazing, very comfortable.

There is a way using Soundflower if you're on a mac or try this other reddit thread if you're on a PC.

However, that is definitely going to be a bit of headache. The much easier, but obviously more expensive solution, down the line would be to use two XLR mics and a mixer. A mic like the ATR2100 that is USB / XLR is a very good choice and what my wife and I use on our show. From there any of the inexpensive Behringer mixers are really all that you need. So for just over $200 you have a very scaleable set-up. Add in a Zoom H1 / H4 and you don't even need the computer anymore.

My main mic is a
MXL BCD-1 Dynamic Microphone

Works amazing for anyone who is on the move and does not have a padded environment. It barley picks up anything! Even better with a compressor.

My guest mic (When recording on the set) is a
AKG 220 Perception Condersor



I do not use a mixer
There are a few reasons I don't:

1.) I'm only a one man setup. Most of my interviews will be done via Skype, Phone, External recorder. This saved me over $300 dollars.

2.)I use an audio interface UR222 interface

3.)This allows me to up the gains without introducing noise. You don't even need a compressor with this saving you another $100-150.

• Capturing sound -
  *128 if you have lots of music bit for podcast and 64 for mono speech only. Here is a quick guide:
  
  

• 320 kbps – Virtually indistinguishable from original CDs
  
• 128 kbps – Typical for musical MP3s and quality podcasts
  
• 64 kbps – Common bit rate for speech podcasts
  
• 48 kbps – Reasonably common for longer speech podcasts
  
• 32 kbps – Poor, usually used to reduce download times
  
  
  
  

You dont have to know a LOT to get a good deal on a mic that will perform. I have two AT2020s and a Perception 200. Total spent? $50. The only reason i done have better quality on my podcast is I spend less time on the back end. As i stated before, and u/firelight pointed out, mine is portable so there is some give and take. Your best bet, IMO, would be a decent mixer (mine ran around $150 new ), some SM58s, and something similar to a tone port. This is going to give you the best bang for your buck. You do not need the same mixer that I have, a smaller one would suffice but I do other recording projects with our band from time to time so its kind of a jack of all trades.
edit
if you want to hear the change in quality look up Shiddy Cast Radio. (should be on mst podcast apps iTunes for sure) the first and third episodes have a HUGE difference. That was just from the mixer upgrade.

For for a behringer mixer, best price and they are pretty awesome.

Edit: Check this out. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000J5Y214/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1419909593&sr=8-3&dpPl=1&dpID=615fg7u4QVL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

CAD u37 is great, but it seems to have some issues on Mac...
I got it on sale at amazon and I love it!
http://www.amazon.com/CAD-U37-Condenser-Recording-Microphone/dp/B001AIQGUO/

If your looking for Cheap I would Look for a USB condenser. It will hook directly to your computer. You will not need a cord, it will have the USB cord included.

I don't own this, but the Amazon review are favorable. One of the reviewers made a sound sample. Sounds good for the money.

Technical stuff is easy. The hardest part in this project will be content.

Read these if you already have not:

1.) Reality Radio

2.) Sound Reporting

What content are you creating? I'd love more information etc..

MXL makes a mic called the BCD-1 that currently runs for $160 a piece. Stacks up very well with the SM7b and RE20. Same frequency response meant best for speech.

That's my current mic, and I recommend it 100%

I wish someone would have given me this list when I started. For about $360 the list below gives you everything you need. I highly recommend against recording on your phone. There is also a lot of great free software out there for recording video for both PC and Mac. I use XSplit personally, even if I'm not streaming. You could probably find the light set without the green screen for a little cheaper if you want, but I wouldn't go any cheaper on the microphones, soundboard or webcam. With all this you'll have a semi-professional setup at an affordable budget.


2x Microphones ($70) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XOXRTX6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1


2x Microphone XLR Cables ($20) https://www.amazon.com/XLR-Microphone-Cable-Feet-Female/dp/B06XC6435F/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503965340&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=xlr+male+to+female&psc=1


1 USB Mixer ($60) https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-802-Premium-8-Input-Preamps/dp/B000J5XS3C/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1503964969&sr=8-3&keywords=xenyx


Light Set ($150) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019GTCNXC/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Webcam ($60) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JH8T3S/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

this: https://www.amazon.com.au/Neewer-Professional-Broadcasting-Microphone-Adjustable/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=microphone&qid=1562212755&s=gateway&sr=8-1

​

and this: https://www.amazon.com.au/ZaxSound-Professional-Condenser-Microphone-Recording/dp/B017SQ8MN0/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=microphone&qid=1562212755&s=gateway&sr=8-2

​

were gonna be my top choices any feedback on them?

​

also thanks so much for doing this thread, so many people wh are new need help (like me)

I think you would be better off making sure eveyone had their own mic. some cheap lavs, 4-channel mixer into your computer or recorder might be alittle cheaper than 2 yetis that need to be shared.

If I was recording in person and had that much money to spend (I record over Skype for my podcast, as we all live hundreds of miles from each other), I'd be hooking studio mics or shotguns up to something like the Zoom H4n Handy Portable Digital Recorder or TASCAM DR-40 4-Track Portable Digital Recorder and recording onto an SD Card (which I'd easily transfer from afterwards) and not recording straight onto computer. Obviously still have popguards, stands, etc.

Why would I do this? Because it's what I do when filming - even though I've got a good laptop the audio wouldn't be that good if I used your set-up with shotguns and converters. So it would be better quality, mainly due to no conversion connections, and you wouldn't have any electronic humming while recording from the recording equipment itself.

Obviously the above wouldn't work for someone doing a live cast.

Also, I don't know what your setup is like, but I have been using a Hamilton Nu-Era Tabletop Mic Stand as a table stand. I just picked up a boom arm that I am going to experiment with to see how well it supports my Knox mics

I don't have any experience with it personally, but my friends all recommended http://www.amazon.com/Alesis-MultiMix-USB-Four-Channel-Mixer/dp/B001T9O5VG for me when I was asking around.

Ok I'll help. Listening to the 3rd episode now.

First, what equipment are you using? I guarantee you aren't using one of these very important things. The plosives (that hard PUH sound that you hear every time you use the letter p) are impossible to take, but that $7 will clear that right up.

It's almost like you're mocking me with how many plosives there are in the first 2 minutes. PUH-od PUh-in down, PUH-assion.

I can't even finish this. It's that difficult to get past.

Here's my advice: Create an intro that explains who you are, why we should listen to you, and what your show is about. Do not expect people to go back to Episode 1 to figure out what the hell is going on.

Edit, edit, edit. Get rid of those plosives. Learn about leveling and compression.

The idea really seems compelling. Honor that by taking the time to make it as professional as possible. PM me if you want some help/advice. Or just comment. Whichever.

If you ever want to have callers/skypers/etc. on your show, make sure you get one that you can do a mix-minus with. Basically you'll want a mon-send or an fx-send. Look for at least a 2-bus mixer or you'll be limited to a single mix-minus connection.

I have a Behringer Q802USB - I should have just bought the 802 (not USB) for $15 less. Here's a little secrete I didn't know when I bought it - you can't use the USB bi-directionally. You're EITHER sending audio to the PC or receiving audio from the PC. So it didn't work for my needs to monitoring incoming audio from the PC and send my mic feed at the same time. I ended up buying a UCA202 USB interface and that solved my problem.

You'll hear the Behringer's are noisy. They are. If you drive the gain it gets really hissy. BUT keep the levels down and it works just fine. For under $80 it's really hard to beat.

If you're on a budget, and want to record 3 mic, I would maybe take a look at these:

Behring 1202
http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-1202-BEHRINGER-XENYX/dp/B000J5Y282/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421430697&sr=8-1&keywords=behringer+1202

Alto Professional ZMX122FX
http://www.amazon.com/Alto-Professional-ZMX122FX-8-Channel-Preamps/dp/B004TM31FG/ref=sr_1_2?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1421430794&sr=1-2

Mackie 802VLZ4
http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-802VLZ4-8-channel-Compact-Quality/dp/B00EDHWLFI/ref=sr_1_33?ie=UTF8&qid=1421430841&sr=8-33&keywords=audio+mixer

Yamaha MG10XU
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-MG10XU-10-Input-Stereo-Mixer/dp/B00IBIVL42/ref=sr_1_61?ie=UTF8&qid=1421430887&sr=8-61&keywords=audio+mixer

For a really inexpensive 2-bus mixer with a sub-group, maybe the Behringer Eurorack UB1204. You get 2 aux sends + a 3-4 submix. I've not heard anything about these mixers - so I can't tell you if the mic pres are at all acceptable. Anyone will tell you if you're serious to stay away from Behringer.
http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UB1204-PRO-BEHRINGER-EURORACK/dp/B00551VDIM/ref=sr_1_sc_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1421430950&sr=8-2-spell&keywords=behringer+euroack

If it's just you and your buddy and you aren't doing any Skype call-ins, and you guys can both be in the same room all you'll need is...

Two mics:
ENTRY/BASIC: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR2100-USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B004QJOZS4/ - $64.00 American - $128 total.

Intermediate: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/356521-REG/Audio_Technica_AT2020_AT2020_Condenser_Microphone.html - $99.00 American - $200 total.

Two XLR cables: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JNLTTKS/ - $5.99 American - $12.00 total.

One XLR-to-USB setup: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CTKI45M/ - $99.00 American

Two Scissor Arms: https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Microphone-Suspension-Broadcasting-Voice-Over/dp/B00DY1F2CS/ - $12.99 American - $26.00 total

Two Pop Filters: https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Studio-Microphone-Filter-Shield/dp/B00ACFAULC/ - $6.95 American each - $14.00 total.

A DAW: Audacity - Free - https://www.audacityteam.org/download/

TOTAL BASIC COST: $280-355 American

If you need to do a Skype call Mix-Minus it will cost an extra $20-50 depending on how you would like to do it.

Here's a copy/paste from a thread a while ago. This setup is kind of expensive, but it's a good setup if you plan on podcasting for a long time. If you're looking at running a show with multiple hosts/guests in-studio and via Skype, this is a good setup to have.

Also, I had bad experiences with Behringer mixers. They're fairly cheap but they don't last long. I had one for maybe three days and hated it. There was a loud hissing noise every time we'd record. I've heard other people have the same problem. I've also heard the reason Behringer is so cheap is they're assembled with the cheapest components. So that's why they don't last very long.

"First off, I wouldn't recommend garageband for recording or editing. It's a resource hog that eats up your ram. I've had it freeze up in the middle of recording before and while editing. I recommend going with Audacity. It's not as user friendly as garageband but it's reliable. I recorded for 2.5 hours in one sitting with no problems.

As for a mixer, I highly recommend the Alesis MultiMix 8 USB. You just plug it into the USB of your laptop, adjust the sound settings on whatever program your recording into and you're set. You can use it to pull audio from the laptop (ie Skype call or YouTube video) into the mix.

There's also the Alesis MultiMix 4 USB. It's cheaper, has less bells and whistles but it works just as well. Though, you'll need this cord if you want to pull audio from the laptop.

In order to hook up multiple Headphones with these mixers, you'll need a headphone amp.

As for mics, the Audio-Technica ATR2100 is a great mic for the price. And it's got xlr and USB cords."

When I wrote that, the Audio Technica mics were $30 a pop. Now they're almost twice as much. I've been podcasting with mine for over a year and a half and it still works great.

Here's a link to my podcast, in case you want to gauge the audio quality of this setup.

If you're using a mixer that has aux sends, you can set up a mix minus using your phone or other device.

You'll need a Headset adapter for your phone. As well as these two cords, Aux to 1/4" mono and Aux to Stereo 1/4".

From here, you can run the Aux to Stereo 1/4" from the Split Headphone Jack into an open channel on your mixer. Run the Aux to 1/4" Mono from your AUX SEND to the Split Microphone Jack from your phone. That way you're getting the audio from the phone into your mix, and using your aux, the caller can hear you without hearing themselves.

This Video could help.

I would splurge a bit more for

http://amzn.com/B0039PPW60

I have the bigger version of this, and it had a bit of a learning curve, but once i got it all figured out, everything works great.

The usb allows you to record the output via usb instead of messing with adapters from RCA. If you want to record audio using the computer as a source ( music/videos/etc ), do not use the usb line in option, it really limits you, use a 3.5mm to double 1/4 inch and put it into one of the balanced channels past the 4 unbalanced ones. Get a good cable, otherwise there's bad hum. Also, i found a headphone amplifier was incredibly helpful when having several people on shows, they could each have headphones with independent volume control, i got this one:

http://amzn.com/B003M8NVFS

I noticed, you could not just use a stereo 1/4 inch cable from headphone out to headphone amp, it wasn't coming through stereo, so i ran RCA output to 1/4 inch stereo to the headphone amplifier, and BAM worked.

I'm not an expert, so i could be wrong about all of this, just what i've done after hours of tinkering.

Google Voice is free. Here's my setup:

I got a used Mackie mixer off of Craigslist for less than $200. I run it into my PC with a set of stereo audio cables and I plug both the mic and headphones into the mixer. My setup works great. Here's my setup:
Microphone: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004QJOZS4/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463590499&sr=sr-1&keywords=audio+technica+atr2100
Mixer: http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-802VLZ4-8-channel-Compact-Quality/dp/B00EDHWLFI/ref=sr_1_8?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1463590526&sr=1-8&keywords=mackie+mixer
headphones (although you don't have to spend this much): http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1463590609&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+headphones+mdr7506
cables: (these aren't my brand, but you need two sets of this kind of cable)
http://www.amazon.com/Hosa-CMP-153-Stereo-Breakout-Cable/dp/B000068O3C/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1463590655&sr=1-1&keywords=quarter+inch+male+to+.35mm+male

I use this Behringer mixer. We have 3 different mics with pop filters, then a laptop recording with Audacity.

The Heil mic is by far the best. Plenty of review videos out there for microphone comparison, too, just Google "X vs Y mic compare" (maybe throw in the word podcast)

we use the Zoom H5N or cheaper the http://www.amazon.com/Zoom-Handy-Portable-Digital-Recorder/dp/B001QWBM62/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top great for recording

For recording cell phone conversations, you can get a 1/8" 4-Pin break out cable that separates the phone audio into a stereo plug and a plug that returns a signal to the phone's microphone. On an audio mixer you take the audio into a channel and record that and then send back an AUX mix of your voice so the person can hear you. You want to use an AUX channel to send back your mic to the phone and not the whole signal with the phone audio back top the phone. It will create echos and feedback.

Here's an example from Amazon

Sorry about the excessive cursing, I guess in a way cursing is another filler that we use to try to add some significance to what we are saying. We shall work on that!

As for the place of recording and recorder alike- we recorded this in my basement. There really isn't anything to absorb the sound other then the shag carpet ( the floor is tiled). We recorded this while sitting on a couch and place it on a table about 2 feet away. Not the most formalized environment for recording. The microphone is CAD U37 USB Studio Condenser Recording Microphone and we also have a filter on it as well.

First off using tabletop stands like those can and will probably introduce table-vibrations to your sound. You need to include either shock mounts for your mics, or use off-table stands for the clearest audio.

That splitter looks like a Belkin Rockstar splitter - you can find them on Amazon.

We use this one from Pyle - because it has separate volume controls.

https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-Pro-PHA40-4-Channel-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B003M8NVFS/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1481558580&sr=1-7&keywords=headphone+splitter+with+separate+volume+controls

I'm guessing you're recording in the same room? You'll need a USB mixer. Anything that handles more than 2 mics starts getting pricey, though.

Something like this can handle 4 mics:

https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Premium-12-Input-Multi-Fx-Processor/dp/B000J5Y214

This is the mic I'm using now. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004QJOZS4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

With this https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Foam-Ball-Type-Windscreen-Black/dp/B0002GXF8Q/ref=pd_bxgy_267_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=X1DXBMJYZM01S7P5YNX3

Question. What would the mixer and headphones be for? I've heard it recommended many times.

MXL mics are pretty affordable and reliable, I'm pretty amateurish but even a limited knowledge in Audition will get you professional sounding audio every time.

Here's the one I use alongside a soundbox AI

On one show, GACC, we record with AT2020 USB mics fed into a USB hub and haven't experienced any problems directly with the mics, though the hub is getting temperamental having to feed so much power out.
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B0006H92QK
On my other show, WWTQ, we use MXL 990 XLR mics fed into a mixer that USBs into a computer.
https://www.amazon.com/MXL-990-Condenser-Microphone-Shockmount/dp/B0002GIRP2/

In both cases the audio is comparably similar and easy enough to edit via Audacity or whatever software of choice, we use on-mic pop filters rather than those that clip to the stands, which will show up on audio if bumped or moved or adjusted during recording.

That said, streamers the world over are using mid-range headsets to great effect with little issues, and there are lapel mics that aren't as cumbersome, but carry different problems with their usage, but both are cheaper-to-same cost as a XLR/stand/mixer/usb setup

[USB MIXER](BEHRINGER XENYX 1204USB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00871VO5Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_I9krybYAHTPXN)

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UCA222-U-Control-Ultra-Low-Downloadable/dp/B0023BYDHK/ref=pd_sim_MI_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=0FBGN4Q2EAYN1X0Z6B75

Try this one here

Either would work fine. You'll get more recommendations for dynamics because they're less sensitive and so more forgiving in bad recording environments.

From a budget perspective, $150 will get you a "starter" 4-preamp audio interface and 3-for-$39 dynamics. Get cables from Monoprice, some cheap mic stands and windscreens, and you're all set.

I found this one a few months ago. I am saving up for it to start recording family history and I might podcast it. I don't know yet.

Pretty cheap and I think it might work.