Others have already asked some pretty useful questions, but if you're looking for more specifics here's what I know.

Recording & Editing Software

While I can't speak to resources for non-Apple tools. If you have a Mac you can start out with simply a good microphone and the GarageBand application.

Microphones and Pop Filters

If you're looking for a mic recommendation I've had a lot of success with the Yeti USB microphone. It's pretty versatile and the sound quality has been quite good. A cheaper reliable option is the Snowball. You can find mics for less than that but I can't vouch for the quality. No extra set up is really needed, just plug it in and record. Some people recommend a pop filter, they're pretty cheap and I've had a good experience with the Dragonpad ones. If you need an example of sound quality PM me, I'm happy to link you an episode I created using the Yeti mic.

Uploading and Hosting

Once you've recorded and edited your Podcast you'll need somewhere to host it so others can listen to what you've created. I usually upload the file to SoundCloud and then share the link or embed the player in my blog and website. There are a lot of other podcast-specific hosting sites out there but I've found SoundCloud to be free and easy.

Helpful Guide

When I first started out I came across a great blog article by Mike Cernovich that I followed to create my first episodes. You can read it here if you're interested (it's specific to using GarageBand though).

I hope this helps, a D&D podcast sounds great. Can't wait to hear what you create.

I’d recommend using XLR microphones and a USB audio interface. I have the Scarlet 2i2, but you’d need one with four channels ideally. Four would give you one extra channel if you wanted to be able to record someone else, like an interview over the phone. Something like this [audio interface / mixer should work](ammoon Digital Bluetooth 4-Channel Mic Line Audio Mixer Mixing Console 2-band EQ with 48V Phantom Power USB Interface for Recording DJ Stage Karaoke Music Appreciation https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IP8ZCW4/). For microphones, I recommend the [MXL 770 Cardoid Condenser Microphone.](MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007NQH98/) I’ve used a dozen different mics ranging from cheap USB mics to $300 Audio-Technicas and this $70 mic is very good for the price. Low noise, good pattern, sounds great for vocals.

You can use free software like Audacity or if you happen to have Adobe Creative Suite, Audition works really well. It’s what I’m currently using.

This setup would run you around $300 unless you found a cheaper USB interface/mixer... but this would give you pretty professional sounding results.

You could try to use USB microphones, but using more than one at a time is a bit of a hassle and depending on your computer, you may end up having issues with quality.

That X/Y mic is great for recording in stereo, but that would make for a weird listening experience I think. If it was all you had, then you'd make it work, maybe combine the L/R tracks into one Mono track so as to avoid being distracting, but since you're not intending to try that, I'll shut up about it.

You've got the right idea wanting ISO tracks of each speaker. Makes editing MUCH more effective. It's also SOP these days for stuff like this. (In the old days of analog recording up through even a few years ago, you wouldn't have the data-writing speeds or bandwidth to record 5 high-quality digital audio tracks to the same hard disk at the same time, so you'd have a dedicated mix engineer whose main job would be to constantly 'ride the faders' on the five people speaking so that the output was clean, clear, and easy to listen to. MAYBE you'd edit, but if you did, you did it with a razorblade and scotch tape. Post-processing was minimal compared to what a lot of folks do today as well. Especially for radio.)

ANYWAY. Forgive the wordsalad.

WAIT! More wordsalad: I should offer up a bit of a correction to my last message, too, because I was using cardioid/omni reasoning that would apply more to standard mics, not lavs. So I changed my mind. Go with omni :-). Reason: Because of how microphones get built, and how lavs are used, the 'dead zone' on the cardioid version would just...point at the floor. So. Not much in the way of rejection in any case. Plus, the more directional the mic, the more careful the speaker has to be not to move their head while they're talking, which is harder to remember than it sounds. With that in mind...

Movo LV4-C: Get these, I think. Maybe just buy one, test it to make sure it's not utter crap, and then buy the rest. There's a favorable comparison to MXL in the comments, and they have some of the best budget-mics I've used. They're never going to replace a lectrosonic or sennheiser or electrovoice or shure or or or...but they'll get you there if you don't have $2000 to spend on mics alone. And by the looks of it, the LV4-C mic may well be a copy of the MXL mic referenced, if not the exact same hardware with different branding. So, even better. Not a pro mic by many measures, but it'll do the job and be an improvement over nothing.

As for the rest:

Shure CVL: The adapter you'd need to run these costs a minimum of 20 bucks apiece. Doesn't justify the cost, plus: adapter. More stuff to forget, more stuff to break.

Behringer XM1800: These are probably ::choke:: fine? But You'd need stands and cables and also they probably don't sound any better than your laptop mic. So...they could work, and 80 bucks for six mics is just a ridiculous price. Couldn't hurt to try, I suppose. Still, with the lavs, as long as you affix them correctly, you'll have the least amount of stuff to worry about while you're recording.

Goliton Cardioid Lav: NO. No. Please just...not these ::Cries::. These would be WORSE than just screaming really loud and hoping your neighbors can hear and enjoy your show.

-----

If you do get the lavs, check out this pic of a 'Broadcast Loop' for an example of a good way to minimize cable noise and strain on the cable. (Although with a cheaper mic, I'd use a bigger loop than you see in the pic to avoid breaking the cable. You're not doing this on video are you?)

And for that 5th mic, the inline preamp /u/matgoebel doesn't actually supply phantom power, so it wouldn't work for your setup. Keeping it cheap, something like this might do the trick, but it's one more piece of kit.

So here's a question(s) to consider, in no particular order of importance:

• Will all five of you be recording all the time, every single session?
  
  
• Why did you decide on lavalier mics to begin with?
  
  
• Is finding a phantom power workaround really worth your time?
  
  If it is, then it is. But if it's not, you could always go the dynamic mic route, which means you wouldn't need phantom power on ANY channel, hell—even handheld would be fine if you don't want to mess with stands, just be careful to have some slack in the cable coming off the mic—don't let the mic support the weight of the cable. Those Behringer mics are worth a shot, although after listening around I think if you go that route you might want to check out these Behringer 8500s instead. They're a little meatier sounding, not quite as harsh, which I think you'd end up preferring in the long run. (Until you can afford THE VOICE OF GOD)
  
  EDIT: fixed my own stupid markup mistake.

[TV, FILM, COMICS, MARVEL, SPIDER-MAN, SONY] One Shot On 2018 Film Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse Review (A Marvel Fan Podcast) LoS300

SFW

iTunes | Spotify | Pandora App | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Stitcher | TuneIn | iHeartRadio | Amazon Alexa Skill | Google Play Music | Shownotes

The Legends Of S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Stargate Pioneer, Agent Lauren, Agent Haley and Agent Michelle celebrate their 300th episode by discussing the Marvel Comic Based Film “Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse.” The Agents discuss the incredible voice acting cast including their favorites, enjoy all the Marvel and Spider-Man references and symbolisms “one more time,” love the closest movie ever to an actual comic book, enjoy the Spider-Family, point out that Aunt May is not a SCIENTIST, pontificate on Peter B. Parker’s future.

Each week four fans of Marvel Comics Agents Haley, Lauren, Michelle and Stargate Pioneer debrief you on the latest episode of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. or other related Marvel Universe content and news.

Website // Twitter // Facebook // Discord // Direct Download // RSS

The ATRs are fine, but there is an identical clone version of the ATR2100 and AT2005 that usually sells on Amazon for $40. Amazon seems out of stock and the other resellers are more expensive right now. The Knox and the ATR2100 have limited lifetime warranties, all the cables, and a cheesy little desk stand. It looks like these came from the same factory. Out of Amazon stock but normally found for $40 at

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012BAX738/

A Behringer HA400 headphone amp will split a headphone jack for up to four headphones and everyone gets a volume control. ~$25 at Amazon or B&H Photo.

If you aren't streaming or using Skype, look at the Behringer UMV204HD ($80) or UMC404HD ($100). For the price, people seem to really like these interfaces.

A recorder like the Zoom H4n Pro ($200) is a great idea if it meets your needs.

If you use Skype, a mixer is a better idea. The Behringer Q802USB ($80) or Q1202USB ($100) are good starter mixers. The Soundcraft Notepad 12fx or 8fx are on B&H for $160 and $130. I have not seen a solid review yet but they sound really nice.

!

I've little experience with handheld recorders, but the optimal way to record 4 people sitting around a table is as follows
___

Gear

• a 4-in audio interface
  
  (such as the Focusrite 18i8)
  
  
• 4 dynamic mics + cables
  
  (best case scenario would be the EV RE20 but any decent dynamic will do. if on a budget, I recommend the GLS Audio ES-58 a great SM-58 clone)
  
  
• a decent PC or Mac
  
  
• DAW, (Digital Audio Workstation) software
  
  Audacity is free, but great cheap DAW's include Mixcraft and Reaper)
  
  ___
  
  Method
  
  Sit each person far enough away that mic bleed is at a minimum. If possible, try not to record in "high reverb" areas (places with a ton of flat, hard surfaces, like a kitchen, that bounce sound back). This won't matter so much, if you're not great at EQing and mixing your audio, in the first place, but it will always help you to have the best source audio you can.
  
  Set each member to record on a separate channel, and hit "Record". Allow at least 3-5 seconds of dead air (to use later to identify your noise floor, and apply noise reduction), and record your show.
  
  Afterwards, if you're a beginner, set a simple compressor (you may have to google how to do this and why) at the top of your audio range, use a "Classic V" EQ preset, if you have it (bass rolloff, high rolloff, in a "V" shape on traditional Equalizers), otherwise you may want to avoid major tweaking. If you have a plugin for it, apply De-essing, and a simple noise gate, make your edits, and you should be solid!

It depends on your recording environment. If you are just starting out and are recording in a bedroom or office I recommend a cardiod dynamic. Cardiod refers to the pattern around the mic that it picks up. Cardiod mics are most sensitive right in front of them in contrast to omidirectional mics which are sensitive to sound from any direction. A dynamic mic isn't as sensitive as a condensor mic and doesn't pick up a lot of background noise.



If you are just starting out I recommend one of the following:



One Person w/ USB mic:

Audio Technica ATR2100 -- ($69)
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR2100-USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B004QJOZS4/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3VSBIQQ3JBF11&keywords=audio+technica+atr2100&qid=1551358784&s=gateway&sprefix=audio+technica+atr2100%2Caps%2C156&sr=8-5



Neewar Boom Arm -- ($14)
https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Microphone-Suspension-Broadcasting-Voice-Over/dp/B00DY1F2CS/ref=pd_bxgy_267_3/130-3630075-7767759?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00DY1F2CS&pd_rd_r=bbd378dc-3b58-11e9-bd63-17b75475049f&pd_rd_w=hAX4Y&pd_rd_wg=0cwDw&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408&psc=1&refRID=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408



On Stage Foam Wind Screen -- ($3)
https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Foam-Ball-Type-Windscreen-Black/dp/B0002GXF8Q/ref=pd_bxgy_267_2/130-3630075-7767759?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002GXF8Q&pd_rd_r=bbd378dc-3b58-11e9-bd63-17b75475049f&pd_rd_w=hAX4Y&pd_rd_wg=0cwDw&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408&psc=1&refRID=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408


(Total - $86)



_____

One Person - w/ XLR interface:

BEHRINGER UMC22 Interface -- ($60)
https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UMC22-BEHRINGER-U-PHORIA/dp/B00FFIGZF6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=umc22&qid=1551358965&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-1



Behringer Ultravoice Xm8500 -- ($20)
https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Ultravoice-Dynamic-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B0002KZAKS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2DW4EVX2PF5KX&keywords=xm8500&qid=1551358987&s=musical-instruments&sprefix=xm%2Cmi%2C192&sr=1-1


Audio-Technica ATH-M20, Can use any headphones -- ($50)
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M20x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR18/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2B8B1B60ZJQ7U&keywords=ath-20x&qid=1551359014&s=musical-instruments&sprefix=ath-20%2Cmi%2C195&sr=1-1-catcorr


Knox Boom Arm -- ($50)
https://www.amazon.com/Knox-Professional-Microphone-Snowball-Microphones/dp/B07D7JTR5M/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=knox+boom+arm&qid=1551359032&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1


On Stage Foam Wind Screen -- ($3)
https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Foam-Ball-Type-Windscreen-Black/dp/B0002GXF8Q/ref=pd_bxgy_267_2/130-3630075-7767759?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002GXF8Q&pd_rd_r=bbd378dc-3b58-11e9-bd63-17b75475049f&pd_rd_w=hAX4Y&pd_rd_wg=0cwDw&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408&psc=1&refRID=THVQ9RCXBFP8QTKXH408


(Total - $189)



The first group is "as cheap as you can get" and still get decent quality. The second group is definitely a better setup.

Ethan cohost of the Shieldwall Podcast https://shieldwallpodcast.podbean.com



EDIT: The second group is definitely a better setup in that it allows you to upgrade down the road with better gear. If you have the money an Audio Technica ATR2100 or AT2005 would sound a good bit better in the second list than the XM8500. But do these sound 4 times better considering them being 3-4x the price? Hard to say.

It sounds like you spent a lot of money for your rig. That's fine, but I didn't.

For my podcast Born Yesterday, I spent a couple hundred bucks on a USB Yeti mic from Blue along with a cheap spit guard/pop filter I've duct taped onto it. The mic itself is very solid - the sound is good, it had settings to change where it pics up sound from (360, bi directional, etc), and it's super easy to use. The pop filter was the best thirty bucks I've ever spent, too.

So yeah, it's not a professional rig, and sure if I whack the table it's sitting on it's bad news, but if I'm careful then it sounds damn good - especially for what I paid for it.

Start by grabbing one of these puppies: http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR2100-USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B004QJOZS4

While it's not the top of the line, it's a great starter mic. You can record via USB straight into Audacity.

Then you want to figure out what the theme of your show is. Far too many people just say, "Oh I'm going to start a podcast" and then give up two episodes in or get disappointed when no one downloads it because it's a few dudes sitting in a basement talking about nothing. Having an overarching theme is crucial.

Try to be different. There's a podcast for every topic out there but frame it in a way that others aren't. I met these guys who started a show called "Good Morning You Drunks" and they were awesome. There's tons of great concepts out there just waiting to be grabbed up. Heck I wish I could find someone who could do like an Uber Car Confessional and interview people that he/she Ubers around.

The only other thing you'll really need is a podcast hosting service - this is where the files get stored so that iTunes can see them. I use Podbean. A lot of people use Libsyn or Spreaker or some others.

I got my start following John Lee Dumas' free podcasting course on EOFire.com

I just uploaded my first podcast, so I may be a good person to answer?

I decided to go with the Audio-technica ATR2100 since it had the option to be a USB mic and an XLR mic. Hoping it will give me flexibility in the future if I decide to get a mixer or something. It also includes a headphone jack in the microphone so I can hear myself. I got a mic stand an a pop filter, too, since they weren't very expensive. It ended up being around $100 for the equipment, which I used credit card points for.

For recording software I went with Audacity. It's free and pretty simple to use. I can see how it might be limiting or unapproachable, but if you know the basics of sound editing you should be good.

For hosting I went with the free trial of podiant. I liked that they offered unlimited bandwidth and help with posting to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, etc. It was very easy to upload the podcast and add the needed information. The hardest part was making a logo, which I did on my own in Photoshop but I might ask someone to make one for me later.

Trying to keep it simple for now and see how it goes.

It would... work. But not well. Remember that you're working with a pure-audio medium, so sounding good is almost as important as having good content. If you have to use this setup, here are a few issues you'll run into-

• Ambient sound- imnidirectional mode will pick up a little of everything. Literally. Echo? Done. Noise from outside? Yup. Literally everything but what your listeners are there for? Possibly.
  
  
• Lack of depth- to get that rich vocal range, you gotta be at the right distance from the right mic. You will have neither with this rig.
  
  
• So much editing- considering that you're likely going to be using Audacity (nothing wrong with that at all), you'll have so much editing to do, and with no idea of what the mic is picking up (see below) to prepare you. Audacity is not the best for really mixing down audio, so you'll be putting a lot of responsibility on a program that isn't the best choice for it
  
  
• No zero-latency monitoring- this is actually huge. You'll either be plugged into the computer while your brain tries to be in the present while also listening on a lag (ugh) or you'll be flying blind (double ugh) since you can't just throw on some cans and monitor in real time. This doesn't seem important, but it super is. Being able to hear what the mic hears with no lag is a game changer.
  
  
  Here's what I'd recommend instead:
  
  Behringer XM1800s 3-pack - the products most often purchased together will run you about $55 (less than a Blue Snowball), and includes a 5-pack of windscreens, and 1 10-foot XLR cable. Personally I would replace that with 2 of the 6-foot versions- I use that exact cable with an AT2020 and for the price it's excellent. By shopping for a good deal you can spend less- buying used or on sale or even from a fellow podcaster who has moved up to more serious gear can help you out there.
  
  To get those sweet vocal tones from the mic to the computer, you'll need an interface. I use an Audio Technica AT2020 run through a Scarlet Solo, but it's just me, and their 2-mic version is excessive for what it brings to the table. Consider the Behringer Xenyx Q802USB interface. The mixer.controls will help you dial in your audio, reducing editing time/effort and reliance on Audacity.
  
  Now, I'm well aware that that is basically double the budget that you have in mind. I don't enjoy giving you that news, but- and this is important- spending ~$130 isn't that big a deal over the long term, and if you wind up taking this more seriously it will give you a massive advantage right out of the gate, and will make the process of recording so much easier, leaving you more time and energy to focus on content and enjoying the process. Because, let's be honest, that's what you start a podcast for; enjoyment. With the mics I recommended, a mic stand isn't crucial right out of the gate, but even if you really just want stands, getting a cheap boom or scissor is totally doable for $30 or less.

[Kids, Family, Folklore] Elderberry Tales
Inspiring and engaging stories for kids, featuring ancient wisdom, timeless tales, and contemporary heroes.
https://www.elderberrytales.com/

Agasi Kidnaps Weensy

When Teensy comes home to find that his wife Weensy has been kidnapped by the giant Agasi, he sets out on a quest to rescue her. He receives help from the most unexpected set of companions - from a centipede, an egg, and many others! Enjoy this funny tale from the Sama people of the Philippines. 

"Agasi Kidnaps Weensy" is translated and published by Kauman Sama Online, an organization devoted to sharing Sama culture and language worldwide. Proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to print books in the Sama language for kids in the Philippines, as well as making more Sama Stories available to a wider audience.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QX973BH/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

Auducity can be wonky but works well. Are y'all in the same room or remote?

Obviously a good mic is important. Can't go wrong with the snowball or yeti. I personally use this

Audio-Technica AT2005USB Cardioid... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007JX8O0Y?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share (non affiliate link) and love it compared to the blue mics. When you can getting a sound board is really nice and really helps with your quality

Gaming headsets RARELY have a good sound signature so broadcast headphones are the next step. The AT BPHS-1, as stated elsewhere, is a solid entry, but it's $200 - which can be expensive and for that money you can get a pretty great usb mic like the AT2020, or even less expensive the AT2100.
If it must be a headset and you don't want to get a broadcasting headset (for price or other reasons), Sennheiser makes pretty decent headsets with decent microphones.

 

But you can get this microphone and this boom stand for less than half the price and, in my experience, a far superior sound.

I use a Behringer x1222usb mixer and three ATR2100-USB Microphones. I got the ATR2100s because I wanted the flexibility to be able to plug them directly into my Mac. I then have two Behringer Ultravoice Xm8500 Microphones as backups for when we have additional guests.

If I were doing it all over again I would have saved some money on the mics and bought 4 of the Xm8500s and just 1 ATR2100 (to plug directly into my computer when I needed to).

The x1222 mixer works fine, though I'm beginning to wish I had gotten a mixer that can record multiple audio tracks so that I could do some more fine tuning to individual audio levels in post (until then, I recommend a great program, called Levelator, farther below that can help with this).

You'll need decent cables for each mic, which will cost more than you expect--from what I've seen looking for cables with Neutrik connectors is usually good practice. There's also the matter of decent mic stands and pop filters as well.

You'll also probably want head phones for each podcaster so that they can hear themselves whenever they drift off mic. Amazon basics headphones are probably good enough for anyone not controlling the mixer. Then you'll also need a headphone amp (which splits the headphone signal and lets each person control their own headphone volume), for example. And you'll need several (at least one per set of headphones plus a couple spare) 6.35mm (1/4 inch) Male to 3.5mm (1/8 inch) Female headphone jack adapters.

If you want to do Skype interviews, you'll need a mixer with an AUX send port. You'll also need an iMic audio device, you can find out more about that and the other audio cables you'll need [here] (http://thepodcastersstudio.com/how-to-setup-a-mix-minus/).

Regarding software. I'd personally recommend Audacity over Garage Band, I just feel like I have more control over the sound with Audacity. Once you clean your audio up a bit (remove background noise, compress, run a limiter, etc) you should consider running it through the program Levelator which does great things to equalize voice levels.

I'm new at this as well, having only recorded 8 times, but if you want some more tips from someone else who is just starting out--just let me know.

My recommendation go to is always the ATR-2100. For ~$70 each you can't go wrong. If that's too expensive you can grab the Samson Q2u which I've been using now for years and love.

You definitely want a dynamic mic if you'll be recording with 3 hosts and you can even pick up a little scissor stand for $12.

So, 3 Q2u = $180 + 3 arms ($36) = $216 which isn't bad for a whole podcast setup as long as you have an audio recorder of some kind. Best of luck and let me know if you have questions!

Our set up with the audio interface and XLR mics has been so much easier to work with. We use the Tascam MiniStudio. It's a good little machine that works well for just the two of us. Also lets you plug your phone/tablet in to record music, but not as a separate track. Ultimately, will probably upgrade to something like this, this, or this. That Monoprice mixer however may not be great for recording more than 2 people on separate tracks. But the Behringer and other Monoprice audio interface look good.

We use the Samson Q2U microphones. I really like them, and think they have great sound quality. If you want to hear the difference between our USB episodes and our XLR mics, check our podcast out: https://fanlink.to/bzYq. Episodes 1 and 2 were recorded with a Blue Snowball and Yeti Nano, and the rest of our episodes are with the Samson Q2Us.

I'm a big fan of the Neewer clamp stand. I've been using it for about a year now on my podcast and it's been great. Really inexpensive, but pretty dang sturdy. Just best to have a shockmount, or be careful not to bump your desk a whole lot to avoid noise in the mic (though that's fairly true of all desktop mic stands)

That's a great setup. I love the tube idea! I'm using my RE20 for an in-studio setup with a DBX 286s, but I'm curious how it would compare with a tube setup like that.

Btw, this little guy is great for splitting headphones.

Here's my recommendation for a podcast starter kit:

• Microphone: Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB
  
• Pop filter: This one.
  
• Headphones: Sennheiser HD 202 II
  
  
  The ATR2100 USB is a dynamic mic that sounds good, and has both USB and XLR options.
  
  ​
  
  If you have a bit more money, I'm currently using this setup:
  
  
• Pre-amp: Behringer UMC202HD
  
• Microphone: Audio-Technica AT875R
  
  ​
  
  A pre-amp will improve the amount of gain you get from a dynamic mic (like the ATR2100). The biggest complaint about dynamic mics is they don't always produce a lot of volume.
  
  ​
  
  I've written a longer beginner's guide here.

I recorded for a while with a 2 XLR mics going into a two input interface and 2 ATR2100s by aggregating devices on my hackintosh (or using ASIO4ALL when on windows). After a while I upgraded my interface to one with more inputs, but I was able to keep using the ATR2100s through their XLR connections.

It takes a little bit of set up, but there are some helpful tutorials for both ASIO4ALL and aggregating devices that can help make your podcasting rig much more flexible!

Hope this helps!

Some recommendations:

• A self-contained portable recorder like the Zoom H5 or H6. It'll avoid all the "PC support" tech support nightmares you'd otherwise have to deal with. Patrons could even be responsible for bringing/using their own memory cards.
  
  
• Even cheap mics are surprisingly good. These 3-for-$39 Behrenger mics are a great deal.
  
  
• Similarly, these $16 Monoprice headphones sound as good as $100+ consumer "style" brands like Beats.
  
  
• Speaking of Monoprice, get all of your audio and computer cables from there.
  
  If you want to see more options, I'm building an open source guide here. It's very much under construction, but there are some good gear lists there.
  
  Post back as you have questions!

I give this out a lot. I use all of these, and they were recommended by another podcaster who uses them too.

Here is my short list. I personally have used these. I still use everything but the mic (I upgraded) Everything together is less than $125 USD. Good luck!


Mixer https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EK1OTZC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Mics (You get 3, so you can have others on (they will need their own mixer for this setup) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NJ2TIE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Mic Stand, pop filter https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EBDZHNQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Sound paneling https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071VDDVHQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These things and Audacity (which is free) will help you make a professional sound on a budget.

I recommend the Blue Yeti microphone. It looks like a lot of podcasters get this one as their intro mike. I like mine a lot. Great sound and easy to use. https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Microphones-Yeti-USB-Microphone/dp/B002VA464S/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=l0e7c-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=&creativeASIN=B002VA464S

Personally I like the Audio Technica AT2005USB. It comes with a little stand and a USB cable. It works extremely well when on the go. It also has a jack for your headphones and you can even plug it into a mixer via XLR, making it a very versatile mic.

If you are looking for something a little less expensive, there is the Audio Technica ATR2100USB. The audio quality is almost as good as the AT2100, but doesn't have as nice of an on/off switch or windscreen inside.

If you need even cheaper than that Knox has an AT2005 knock off. It looks and sounds nearly identical.

All 3 are dynamic cardioid mics which are usually preferable when recording in a less than ideal environment since they should pick up less room noise. I wouldn't worry as much about audio quality differences between your home studio, and anything you use while on vacation. Most listeners understand you can't bring your home studio on the road.


Also full disclosure, the Amazon links are affiliate links for GFQ Network, the podcast network I work for.

• Samson Q2U microphones. We used them in USB mode with no audio interface and I was very pleasantly surprised at the sound quality. The raw audio actually sounded better than the Shure SM58s through a Focusrite Saffire Pro which was our setup at the library.
  
  
• Eastshining adjustable mic arm with shock mount
  
  
• Aokeo pop filters
  
  
• I made the "soundproofing" out of some egg crate foam someone was throwing out by taping it to a pizza box. This has the added bonus that it folds up nice and compact when we're not recording!
  
  
• Recording directly into Reaper
  
  If anyone has questions or wants some advice on how to do this for low budget let me know! We did a lot of research and spent about $80 per person, and the sound quality rivals that of the legit sound studio we were recording in before. Also we used both USB mics on my computer and it was relatively easy to make work (on a Mac) so happy to offer advice on that front too.

Xm8500 from Behringer. I love it because has built in pop filter and it’s very quiet. Required a little bit more gain than other mics so better have a good preamp.

One time an editor told me my mic was “too quiet to sound believable that was recorded in a restaurant”. Recorded used at that time, Zoom H4N Pro.

Behringer Ultravoice Xm8500 Dynamic Vocal Microphone, Cardioid https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002KZAKS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fqNmDbC48M728

Hummm this is my shopping list for the cheapest usable equipment I could find, the interface is for 8 people so don’t get that lol and the prices are for 4 people but this is about the best I can think of (they’re might be cheaper stands and getting a shorter xlr cable might be a good idea but this is kinda a baseline)

4 Microphones $80https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Ultravoice-Dynamic-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B0002KZAKS/ref=pd_aw_sim_267_1/134-4918017-9581726?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002KZAKS&pd_rd_r=67247d59-873d-11e9-b9fc-e96a8f51671e&pd_rd_w=rl713&pd_rd_wg=YUNRU&pf_rd_p=469620d9-3e90-496d-9dc8-b19f900ba5fe&pf_rd_r=43C56ST8VNKF3SY65G3P&psc=1&refRID=43C56ST8VNKF3SY65G3P

4 Pop filters $40https://www.amazon.com/Professional-Microphone-Stabilizing-Recordings-Broadcasting/dp/B01N21H9WY/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=pop%2Bfilter&qid=1559702707&s=gateway&sr=8-4&th=1&psc=1

4 XLR cables $40 https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003JJQMD8/ref=psdcmw_11973421_t2_B00018CXV0

5 Microphone stands $60
https://www.amazon.com/InnoGear-Upgraded-Adjustable-Microphone-Snowball/dp/B07F82BPLV/ref=mp_s_a_1_20?keywords=microphone+stand&qid=1559703326&s=gateway&sprefix=microphone+st&sr=8-20

Audio interface $150
Amazon.com: BEHRINGER Audio Interface, 4-Channel (UMC404HD): Gateway

Total: $370

We used to record on a Blue Snowball mic and then upped our game, and we did it without using a mixer based on some tips we got from this subreddit.

We have 4 people recording, and chose to use a Zoom H6. It can record up to six tracks (but the most we've used is 4). Our microphones are Samson Q2Us, which is the same as an Audio-Technica ATR-2100 mic. (We chose the Samson Q2Us instead because they came with headphones and cheap stands and cost less.)

We decided to get boom arms with shock mounts and pop filters in order to reduce noise. To be honest, the Zoom H6 alone, using the capsule mic, produces better sound than our Blue Snowball. I also like the H6 because I can take it on the road and record mobile interviews clearly, even in noisier environments.

Here's one of our latest podcasts recorded with this setup, and here's an old one with the Blue Snowball for comparison. (Jump around the episodes a bit and you'll see the difference.)

Good luck with whatever you choose!

http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B007JX8O0Y

Without much else to go on, this is as good a suggestion as any. It's plug and play (like any USB mic), comes with a desk stand, and is a dynamic mic, so it will be better suited for poor room conditions. If you provide more info about how the mic will be used, may be able to give a better suggestion. Also a budget would be good.

This is pretty much the basic starter set that will really serve you well.


ATR2100 or Samson q2u for mics. Very similar mics that can just be plugged into your PC via USB. They both also have an XLR connection which future proof them if you buy other equipment. Both do a great job of rejecting background noise and they sound excellent.



Basic Foam cover for the mic.



Neewer scissor Mic stand (or some stand to get the mic closer to your face). The stand that comes with these mics isn't what you need.

There are a few good dynamics that aren't too expensive:

Behringer XM8500

Sure SM48

Sure PGA48

AudioTechnica Pro 41

Sennheiser E835

And of course there are plenty of others, but hopefully this list gets you started looking! I listed them cheapest to most expensive (the E835 is $100), but any of them will be good.

The NW-700 is a decent mic for the money but you should probably use dynamic mics instead of a condenser mic. You’ll have a lot of issues with sound bleeding with 5 condenser mics in a room.

You could get 2 of these.
3x mic pack

That way you also don’t need phantom power.

Then you can pick up a better mixer with something like this.
mixer

Lastly, you can get 5 Neewer boom arm with XLR cables inside the arm for $18

That puts tour total at about $370 for the setup or about $75 each.

Get some dynamic mics there's a 3 pack of behringers for 40$that sounds just fine. Your probably using an omnidirectional condenser. Your gonna want some dynamic mics and you'll be good to go. I used to have the same issue. You have to eat the mic but you will have zero bleeding. These are my favourite super cheapos

BEHRINGER ULTRAVOICE XM1800S https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NJ2TIE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_nuGNAbXRX5EST

So basically you need a standard equipment. Check Podbean for podcast hosting service. It's a great tool for podcast hosting & episodes distribution. As for equipment, check out Blue Yeti Microphone, a best seller & highly recommended mic for your needs.

You've picked a great day to ask. The Samson Q2U XLR/USB mic is 40% off on Amazon right now. Great starter mic that works on either a recorder that has XLR inputs or on a computer that has a USB input.

If you are recording everyone in the same room, you should definitely be looking and dynamic mics instead of condenser which are going to be much better at reducing ambient noise. I also have the MXL 770, and love it, but I only use that in my studio where it's just me. For "entry level" I would look at something like:

Shure SM58

Samson Q2u

Audio Technica ATR2100

If you're looking to get into podcasting for a long haul, or want to do a lot of it ... a mixer is necessary.

​

https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-R16-Multitrack-Controller-Interface/dp/B002I7TJNW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1541252930&sr=8-4&keywords=zoom+mixer -- This is the mixer our podcast uses. It records directly into the board (via SD card which can be transferred either via cable or that to a PC), has 8 channels for input, and can record a TON of audio.

​

From there, just get as many mics and XLR cables as you need. I would suggest mic stands so no one has to worry about holding a microphone. Mics don't have to be super expensive (and usually the more expensive ones have the issue of being TOO good for your recording space by picking up every single sound around you), you just need to make sure everyone knows to get RIGHT UP on the mic. I tell people to kiss it when talking, or put the mic head directly on your chin when talking (also learn to breathe out your nose lol).

Here is the headphone amp I use. I have a windscreen but I haven't used it since i always used it inside. I have not tried to use it to record three people talking at once but I knew someone who did it with an H1 with some success. It definitely had more of a live sound than in a studio.

Looks like I replied to the wrong person originally. Here are a couple of links:

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/XM1800S--behringer-xm1800s-dynamic-vocal-instrument-microphones-3-pack

https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Ultravoice-XM1800S-Instrument-Microphones/dp/B000NJ2TIE

Like /u/roobyroobyroooooo mentioned, stands/arms are very helpful (I recently did an "away" episode where everyone held the mics, and I had to spend so much time editing the handling noises out of the show), and I got extra foam covers for them to help with plosives.

But that aside, I'm pleased with the sound quality for $14 mics.

The perfect mic doesn't exi--

Seriously that mic is much better than a Yeti, and it's dynamic so it's not gonna pick up those proverbial mouse farts.

I have no problems with affiliate links. You should change yours to your affiliate link, and get a few bucks for being helpful and pointing out the price drop.

Edit: To add to the helpfulness, here's the mic and a few accessories to get a good setup without breaking the bank.

• ATR2100-USB mic - $54.50
  
• Boom arm - $13.99
  
• Shock mount - $14.95
  
• Windscreen - $2.95
  
  Total = $86.39 for a darn good setup. (All are affiliate links. I'd be happy to remove these if the conversation swings in that direction.)

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there isn't a mixer that takes USB mics, I'm pretty happy with the Behringer X1204USB I got last december. I'd also recommend the AT2005 USB mic. It has both USB and XLR and is usually around $60. It's a dynamic mic that works well and the mixer has the capacity to have 4 of them.

For an arm, I have a cheap Newwer Mic Boom that works well, but I don't think it'd hold up under a lot of stress. It's a good starter though and has a XLR cable built into it.

And for stand options, I like this neewer boom arm as a budget boom arm. I've been using it with a Knox for a few weeks and recently bought 4 more to go with all my Knox mics for my new set up. For a desk stand, I liked this Hamilton nu-era desktop stand. Both are pretty budget options for a budget mic.

I personally have the CAD u37 which I find to be quite decent for $35. However, it is a condenser microphone and will pick up a lot of ambient noise if you aren't in a quiet environment.

The Knox is a good choice as you can use it now as USB and later as an XLR if you add a mixer. Since it is dynamic, it will do much better at not picking up unintentional sounds.

Hm, guess I could save $40 or so by going with the single channel Behringer as opposed to two channel, that way I save some $$ and take advantage of Q2Us XLR

Yeah, I actually have the control room out go to the following headphone "microamp" (not sure if that is considered a mixer):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KIPT30/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Since I usually only have 3 headphones plugged in, that means the 4th is free so hypothetically maybe I could have the 4th headphone signal go to your normal headphone jack in the smartphone (or camera, etc). Would that make sense?

If you choose to go the mobile route you might want to get one of these.

We used them for a couple of episodes of our podcast until upgrading to these.

If you want to see the difference compare the oldest and newest episode of our [EXPLICIT] podcast here: https://soundcloud.com/UncrediblePs

EDIT: The second option clearly isn't for mobile use. It works with USB and XLR. The first option just plugs into your 3.5mm headphone port on your phone. Not trying to confuse anyone =)

Amazon has the Samson q2u that comes with headphones for $49 and then for software you can use Audacity which is free and very popular among podcasters

It all depends on your budget. The Mixer will "futureproof" you for a bit. Thinking about adding music into the mix or playing a clip of something during the interview? A mixer will be the trick.

Go with a USB mixer. You will connect XLR mics to the mixer and then the mixer is USB to your laptop. The one I am coveting in my low budget is the Allen & Heath Zedi10. It will record multi-channel that will make editing a lot easier.

Another option is a portable recorder like the Zoom H4NPro (I have) and the Zoom H6 (I covet) and you can go directly into them, record on a SD card and then do editing on your computer.

As for multiple USB mics--it can be done, but you will hate it. Usually you will have to have the manufacturer change the ID of the device in order to have a computer recognize it. A decent mic is the ATR2100 USB at $80. It is a XLR and USB, so you can put it into the mixer or recorder directly, or if you are doing solo work, USB direct to the computer. There is a admirable knockoff by Knox that I have head good things about.

As a beginner for a microphone specifically I'd really suggest something like the Blue Yeti ---> (You can find it for sale if you keep an eye on it. Had gotten mine for almost 60% off during Cyber Monday).

Really simple, USB plugs in, automatically gets read Audacity or Adobe Audition, depending on your editing choice, and has some of the best sound quality for its price you can find.

You should check out the Audio Technica AT2005USB.
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2005USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B007JX8O0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422575453&sr=8-1&keywords=at2005usb&pebp=1422575470744&peasin=B007JX8O0Y&pebp=1422575470829&peasin=B007JX8O0Y&pebp=1422575470933&peasin=B007JX8O0Y
It's about $60 on Amazon. USB and XLR. The guy over at http://creamyradioaudio.com highly recommends it. He and his co-hosts use them on a live, nationally syndicated radio show. The are some other great tips there also. He says to stay away from the blue yeti.

i honestly bought the Neewer pack for the things it comes with and then ended up replacing the mic with the AT2020 ( https://www.amazon.ca/Neewer-Professional-Broadcasting-Microphone-Adjustable/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=neewer&qid=1556599882&s=gateway&sr=8-2 )

​

A few months ago I made a post where I shared all my tips and tricks on how to start a podcast and publish it on multiple platforms (hopefully it can help you out): https://www.reddit.com/r/podcasts/comments/9rbclj/tools_to_create_a_podcast_repost_of_my_tips_and/

Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004QJOZS4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_w3fqDb0M7W6H5


I have this microphone and it works great. It's dynamic so it doesn't pick up as much background noise. It's USB and XLR so if your budget increases down the line you can get an audio interface, but for now you can use the USB. I've seen it get down to $45 before. If you're willing to wait you can set a deal alert on Slickdeals or stealengine

Yes, a Zoom mic would be fine. But there are a ton of articles around about beginner podcast equipment:

https://theaudacitytopodcast.com/3-options-for-minimal-and-portable-podcasting-gear-tap317/

https://www.podcastinsights.com/podcast-equipment/

If you already have a computer, you can do it way cheaper than $200. Just buy the ATR-2100 (recommended in both articles) and plug it into a USB port. Use free software such as Audacity to record and edit your voice.