So first of all, a USB mic isn't going to connect to a mixer. They're designed to go straight to the computer, but mics that connect through XLR are going to give you a better audio signal, so definitely go that rout if possible. Personally, I recommend the Behringer XM1800s or the CAD D32 if you need multiple mics, or if you have a bit more saved up then the Audio-Technica Pro 41. There are plenty of other great mics out there, but these are all good quality at a relatively low price, so I think they are great for people just getting in to using audio equipment.

​

For the mixer, as long as you aren't streaming live then you can go with an audio interface instead of a full mixer. The interface takes the input from your mic, boosts the signal to a usable level, and has an analogue-to-digital converter that makes the signal usable by your computer. Most mixers will do all that (there are a few that don't convert to a digital signal, but those are usually older models), plus allow you to add EQ or other effects to your audio. If everything is getting recorded though, all those effects can be done more precisely in your DAW (digital audio workstation, the software you record and edit with).

There are plenty of good interfaces with two XLR inputs, and some of them even have multiple headphone outputs. If the interface (or mixer) you get only has one, you will need a splitter, but with only two headsets you shouldn't need anything else just to record. If it's not working, then you can look into headphone amps, but usually they aren't something you will need.

​

For the mic stands, basically any cheap stand will work. Unless you are using a mic that's heavier than average (like the SM7B), there isn't going to be any issue. Pop filters are the same, you can even just use the cheap foam wind covers. Pop filters are designed to help reduce plosives (the puff of air from the 'p' and 'b' sound hitting the mic), but the biggest thing to get rid of them is to speak slightly off-axis to the mic, not directly into it. Dynamic mics usually have some sort of built in pop filter as well, so don't worry too much about what you get for a pop filter.

​

Audacity is a great free DAW, and will work great. It's not perfect, but for the price I haven't found anything better. Personally, I use Reaper, but which software you use is less essential than being familiar with whatever it is that you use. Get comfortable messing around with the effects, and figure out what stuff does. Audacity has everything you need for recording and editing.

​

The one thing you didn't mention that I consider to be very important is acoustic treatment. This can be as simple as stringing up old blankets, or you can buy acoustic panels, but having some soft material between you and the walls to cut the reverb and echo in the room is an absolute must. Without treatment, even the best of mics will sound harsh from all the echo, but with a well treated space even cheap mics can sound good.

​

If you ever have any questions, feel free to ask. And good luck!

So, I don't know the most technical differences, but I can tell you the major difference between Condenser and Dynamic.

Condenser mics are going to pick up a lot of ambient noise. You'll probably see these in a recording studio, and they work well in that setting because studios are designed to incorporate them. Some condenser mics require phantom power to power them, the Blue lineup does not as they are powered by the computer.

Dynamic mics are going to be more focused, picking up the sound directly in front of them. I prefer the Dynamic, as I think you can get a better, more isolated sound. Especially if your recording space isn't ideal or acoustically treated.

The Blue Microphones (Snowball and Yeti) are condenser mics. So, if you're using a Yeti, you're going to be picking up a lot of the noise in the room, and outside the room (and even the building, depending on your recording space). So, if you have animals, roomates, Air Conditioning, fans, any little thing that makes noise, it will be picked up.

We used to record with a Blue Snowball, and while it's nice for capturing the sound of multiple hosts, the cons outweigh the pros.

Now, if you're able to treat the space with either acoustic foam, or even something as simple as hanging blankets up, and putting some on the floor if you don't have carpet, this will help your acoustics.

Or, if you're a one-person show, you can record in a closet, as well Just be mindful of any ambient noises you might not think of.

However, depending on how many people you're planning on having, here's the setup I recommend, for your price range:

1. Behringer Xenyx 1202 with 4 XLR inputs. - This $80 mixer gives you some room to grow.
   
   
2. Behringer Ultravoice 3-Pack - This affordable $40 dynamic microphone bundle will let you and any additional hosts get started with a decent sound. You could always upgrade to more expensive mics later, but even the affordable Behringer XM8500 is a great mic that comes in at $20.
   
   
3. Pick up the cables, which should run you between $20–$30: 3 XLR cables, plus the line out from the mixer to your laptop/computer.
   
   
4. Audacity. Free, easy-to-use editing software that I've been using for 6 years and is perfect for my show's needs. There are a lot of online resources to support Audacity and all of its functions.
   
   
5. A hosting site: Podbean, Shout Engine, Libsyn, Archive.org, etc. This is where you'd upload your show and use your RSS feed to get into iTunes. I personally use Podbean, but to have a decent go of it, you'll have to pay. We pay around $100 a year. Shout Engine and Archive.org are free alternatives, and I've personally used Shout Engine without issue.
   
   
6. Some people like to use headsets to monitor their sound, but it's not super necessary to start. You can gauge your volumes by watching the recording track in Audacity and see if anyone needs to be turned up or down. Using dynamic mics and a mixer will give you a lot of volume control pre-recording. Down the road, you could look into an Audio Interface which would allow for multitrack recording, giving more control over everyones levels post-recording.
   
   And there you go. For about $150, you'll have a decent starter setup which will capture a good sound right away.
   

I would get the K & M Microphone Stand with Telescopic Boom Arm. IT may be easier to get a desk based stand but this will remove the microphone from physical contact with the same table you are using for your computer/recorder/mouse to prevent noises from translating from the table through the stand to the microphone and into your recording.

I would urge you to go higher than $100 for the microphone to a large diameter broadcast dynamic microphone like the re20 or the re320. You can get a package from BSWusa.com to include the shockmount and the pop filter that's the best deal around but if you want to stay under $100 per item I would recommend either the Samson Q2U or the sE Electronics V7.

If you use the sE Electronics V7 I would recommend one of the Makie Audio Interfaces. The Mackie Onyx Artist is currently under $100 but if you wanted to futureproof yourself with the ability to expand to one additional microphone I would highly recommend going with the Mackie Onyx Producer instead. The Samson Q2U can output via USB and XLR at the same time so you could go into the Mac and a XLR connection (like a portable audio recorder) at the same time with no need for the Mackie Interface.

The next one is outside of your price range but I would highly recommend that you invest in a portable audio recorder. Yes you can record straight to your Mac but I've seen so many software recorders fail and lose episodes that a hardware recorder is generally best in my opinion. For your application I would either recommend the Zoom H5 at $270 or the Sound Devices Mix Pre-3 at $650. Either will work for you but the preamps and options on the Mix Pre-3 are pretty sweet. Also, if you upgrade to the re20 or the re320 the preamps on the Mix Pre 3 won't be working as hard and might end up giving you a cleaner sound. The Mix Pre-3 can also act as an audio interface to your Mac as you record at the same time so there would be no need for the Mackie Audio Interface. You can use the Zoom H5 without an audio interface as well but you cannot record on the Zoom H5 and pass the audio to your Mac via USB at the same time.

There's other things I would consider as well but if it was me I'd grab the Zoom H5, the sE Electronics V7 and record straight to a the Zoom.

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,

You want a 4 input mixer with a USB out. Brands will cause an uproar in this sub but I've had 3 different Behringers and never had a problem and they are cost effective. You want a USB out for sound clarity. If you go with line out to a PC, it will sound like shit.

This is a great mixer for the price. It's has USB out to your pc and 4 xlr inputs for mics as well as a couple for your pc or whatever audio in.

This mic will do what you need it to. It's not a condenser, but it will sound great.

With cables and windscreens you should be able to keep it under 200 with those 3 items. But, you may want to look at some cheap mic stands (holding a mic makes too much noise that will annoy your audience) and balanced Y cables for your pc inputs. I'm pretty sure the mixer will come with the USB cable. Also you will need a good headphone splitter/amp. Or you can get a cheap 4 way headphone splitter, just make sure it's stereo.

You have a low budget so you will have to sacrifice on some of the equipment. Not to say this stuff is shitty, just that five hundred would get you more bang. I realize you only have 3 people now but a guest will happen over time. Chances are though, you will do 10 shows and quit - someone will not have the time or life will get in the way, it happens. The equipment I linked to will work in many applications so it will be easy to move if you decide to get rid of it.

Again, people here will argue for days over brand name and set ups. My suggestions are suggestions that will work. I've used them for years and have had a few incarnations of each. I personally use completely different equipment now, but I know this stuff works on a budget. No - I do not work for Behringer, but the shit works for its price. Good luck, guys. PM me with the first show!

Deliverybros Episode 89: How Grand is this Jerky w/ Howard E. Anderson of Carleton's Grand Jerky

 

In this Episode Mr.AKA gets to sit down with an empire a rising staple crafted in the Midwest. If you like Jerky then you are going to enjoy this commentary. Deliverybros proudly presents our sponsor, our friend, and a wonderful businessman Howard E. Anderson  of Carleton's Grand Jerky. From the humble beginnings to the future Mr. Anderson brings an American Dream to life with his story and how this company began. For those try to start a dream you should definitely have a listen. Anything on the Table, Anything on the Menu-Deliverybros.

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love #followback #instagramers #me #tweegram #photooftheday #20likes #amazing #smile #follow4follow #like4like #look #instalike #igers #picoftheday #food #instadaily #instafollow #followme #girl #instagood #bestoftheday #instacool #meco #follow #colorful #style #swag

A good starter mic would be the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB or an AT2005-USB or a Samson Q2U. The prices were a steady $60-$50-$38 but Amazon has the AT2005 at $80 and the Q2U at $60 for some reason for the last few weeks. All are effectively identical hardware.

The ATR2100 (and the others which are basically identical) is a nice solid dynamic mic with USB or XLR outputs and good ambient noise rejection. It's not bad when you have them in the same room a bit apart. It's a little quiet but once you crack up the gain it's fine and sounds very good. The ATR2100 has a limited lifetime warranty and the others have a one year warranty.

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR2100-USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B004QJOZS4/

I'd suggest a mixer if you want to record more than one track at a time. While you can on a Mac set up aggregate audio devices and on PC use

http://www.asio4all.com

it's just not stable.

Edit: You could use an audio recorder like the Zoom H5, though. That's pretty bulletproof and dead simple, doesn't crash. The H5 has two XLR jacks with an option to add two more and the H6 has four XLR jacks with an option to add two more as well. The H4n is a little cheaper and supports two XLR jacks but is a bit older tech and the H5 and H6 have cleaner pre-amps.

!

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).

You don't need to get super fancy (especially starting off). If you're audio sounds like a phone call, that's going to be an issue that will deter listeners. But mediocre audio quality will not hinder your growth, bad content will.

A few recommendations:

Cheap mics:

This works great as a portable mic: https://www.amazon.com/Samson-Mic-Portable-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B001R76D42/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1498145879&sr=8-3&keywords=samson+clip

I also used this to clip onto my headphones before: https://www.amazon.com/Zalman-Zm-Mic1-Sensitivity-Headphone-Microphone/dp/B00029MTMQ/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1498145910&sr=8-6&keywords=clip+mic

Actual mics:

I've heard good things about the Snowball but I've never used it: https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Snowball-iCE-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B014PYGTUQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1498146044&sr=8-3&keywords=mic

If you want an actual mic, this is the cheap mic I buy all my cohosts. It sounds perfectly fine. I've been using it for over 2 years now: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR2100-USB-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B004QJOZS4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498146015&sr=8-1&keywords=atr-2100

You don't need a mixer. Instead, I would use zencastr to record the audio. It has a free version but I pay for the unlimited one ($12).
Otherwise, you can just record your own individual audio with Audacity which is free and GREAT!

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.

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).

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.

I scaled up audio inputs with microphones that have USB and XLR outputs. 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 twitching on windows, which is what the kids say). 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. Low initial cost to expand inputs, and future proofing for when you do get that nice Saffire interface with loopback capability for recording remote hosts super easily!

Best of luck!

A couple of suggestions. First, don't get the atr2100 mics. You're paying for a USB interface you won't use. Pick up a couple of Shure SM58 mics - even if you upgrade later you'll have them as good quality spares. They cost a little more but they're a little better quality.

Get the Zoom H5. It's about $270 and had actual gain knobs (no digging through menus) and supports Zoom's interchangeable mic capsules. It can also act as an audio interface.

That'll leave you around $130 to pick up an inexpensive set of headphones, a couple of mic stands, and cords. You'll have a setup that will work well as a portable setup as well as an in-studio rig and will be useful later on if/when you decide to upgrade work a mixer or dedicated audio interface.

Try the ATR2100

Or the Samson Q2
Both super for starting out. Have either USB or XLR for flexibility. And they sound great.

Also it's a good idea to get a pop filter for it. These are like $5 and help audio quality a lot.

Just remember, it's not the mic that makes a great show, it's you.

The Audio-Technica ATR2100/AT2005/Samson Q2U are very good podcasting microphones, and are versatile by having both USB and XLR connections.

The Zoom H6 is a good recorder. If you want to save money, get a Behringer mixer (1-XLR, 2-XLR, 4-XLR) and a Zoom H1 to record with.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x or ATH-M40x are good headphones.

Get any pop filter that fits your price. A Neewer boom arm is OK for podcasting (that's what I use), but the next step up is a Blue Compass, Rode PSA-1, or Heil PL-2T.

The Neewer boom arm comes with a plastic shock mount.

Monoprice.com has pretty good quality cables for cheap, but price almost equals quality for audio cables.

Audacity is a good audio editor.

Check out Better Podcasting, The Audacity to Podcast, School of Podcasting, The Feed, and Podcasters' Roundtable for podcast advice. Pod Squad is a Discord server that I help moderate where you can also get more help from other podcasters.

• Antiques Freaks: This podcast is great and I recommend it no matter what your interest. Laugh a lot and learn things. Check out the Beanie Babies episode or Danger! Mercury to start.
  
• GM Word of the Week: Each week there's an episode about a word's origin or development. Even though they're related to tabletop gaming, it's still plenty interesting if you're not into that since they feature words like socks, thunder, bank, etc. and you can always skip the more fantastical ones.
  
• Terrible Book Club: 2 Bostonian musicians read a book every two weeks that they think they will hate and discuss whether or not it was indeed as terrible as they anticipated.
  
• Oh No! Lit Class: A couple explain classic books often assigned in western classrooms.
  
• By the Book: 2 women live by a different self-help book every two weeks.
  
• Goosebuds: 3 guys re-read the Goosebumps series and discuss how the stories have aged.
  
• Amazon Book Club: 3 New Yorkers read the first page, the page at 25%, 50%, 75%, and the final page of a free Amazon Kindle book each week.
  
• Got Science? is great and features a wide variety of science topics related to U.S. environmental policy (useful even if you're not from the U.S. though).
  
• Paper Boys Two grad students discuss a different interesting paper each week and whether it was appropriately covered by the media.

We are looking at setting up an very basic, in-home podcast studio. Would anyone mind weighing in on what we are considering?

​

The podcast is primarily two hosts with an occasional guest (3 ppl max). Its all conversational. It doesn't need to be perfect, we are just hoping for a reasonable audio quality. We aren't trying to break the bank. So my research has been low end but quality items.

​

Here is the purposed setup:

• Mac Mini - It will be dedicated to the podcast. My understanding is that I can set it up to have multiple audio inputs.
  
• Audacity/GarageBand - We currently edit and do some single channel recording with Audacity, and my research indicates it can be set up for multi channel. But I'll explore GarageBand as well.
  
• Mics - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001R747SG - This is what we're considering purchasing for our three mics.
  
• Mixer - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00I2J4TWG - This is what we're considering purchasing.
  
• Headphones - https://www.amazon.ca/Audio-Technica-AUD-ATHM20X-Professional-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR18 - This is what we're considering purchasing.
  
  ​
  
  I'd love to get some feedback. Thanks!

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.

I upgraded to xlr back in November and haven't regretted it for a second. Everything sounds so crisp and you can modify the sound to a T, plus there's none of the issues I had with usb.

My setup works perfectly for a 3 or 4 person show. I have the [Behringer XENYX 1202] (http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-1202-BEHRINGER-XENYX/dp/B000J5Y282/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1456941958&sr=8-11&keywords=xlr+mixer) mixer which costs about 75 used but I managed to find one for 50. The only issue with this is that it all records to one track so if you want to isolate someone while editing, no luck. You could probably pay an extra 50 bucks to get a multitrack mixer but I don't think it's worth the money.

For microphones, I use the [Ultravoice XM1800S] (http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-ULTRAVOICE-XM1800S-Cardioid-Microphones/dp/B000NJ2TIE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456942042&sr=8-1&keywords=microphone+3+pack), which come in a 3 pack for about 35 bucks. I really love this microphone even more than my $60 condenser microphone because they don't pick up a lot of background noise so nobody will be bleeding sound onto each others mics!

I also got a 5 pack of cheapo xlr cables on Ebay for less than 10 bucks and a 5 pack of foam pop filters for less than 5 bucks.

Hope this helps and let me know if there's anything else you want help with.

Edit: Multitrack mixer costs 50 bucks more, not 5.

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.

Not to name drop but I met Maron at one of his shows a few months ago and he gave me a few tips for my setup. He recommend a good stage mic if you don't want to drop too much money. I went with these mics https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEVDOXC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and this mixer https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008O517IW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 this mixer price is good the mics are a little pricey. You can get a shure set for cheaper. Hope this helps.

I use

https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Q1202USB-12-Channel-Mixer/dp/B008O517IW

And its always been good to me. To be fair I haven't really tried others but this works well just grab a couple splitters for the headphones. The compressors on the 4 main inputs is quite useful although I'm sure there are better ways to compress it makes it easy for a noob

Here's what I'd suggest (as podcaster with ten years experience). If you can afford it buy a hardware recorder. The Zoom H6 has four inputs, and each one can support phantom power. It'll do multichannel recording on its own - no laptop required, and is infinitely more reliable than any software solution. Then buy four cheap as chips mic (e.g.: something like this) - whatever kind you like. If you stick at podcasting you can upgrade the mics later, but the Zoom will still be an excellent recorder / preamp, and will stand you in good stead for years (as well as being mobile). If you want to hear sound quality of this solution check this out this episode of my podcast from a couple of months back.

The ATR2100 is a really good, inexpensive dynamic mic option. The AT2020 is a great condenser option.

As for theme, find something you are passionate about. Something you can talk about no matter how you feel that day. A lot less "work" to do if you focus on something you love.

If I want to record my podcast over a chromebook what's the best software to use?

I only have a microphone (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004QJOZS4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 with the foam. What should I get next and why?

Is skype and hangouts the best way to do interviews?

EDIT: I have a chromebook I'll be using for awhile. What's the best way to do interviews on this.

Thanks

My partner and I are huge podcast listeners and are looking to start up one in the near future.

I've been doing a ton of research recently on the essentials needed to run a podcast with 2 hosts. Budget-wise, I'm looking for something that won't break the bank but delivers a great sound overall. Here's the list I've gathered so far.

• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface
  
• ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone x 2
  
• Samson PS01 Pop Filter x 2
  
• Microphone boom arm x 2 (optional)
  
  Do you have any recommendations on the above setup? Is there anything here you would swap out?
  
  I haven't done much audio post-production but I am familiar with the process from my video editing days. We don't have any desire to be mobile at the moment, so we're looking for a fixed setup.
  
  Thanks in advance!

For the love of god, do not buy a Blue mic. I don't know how they got a reputation for making good mics. I think they are terrible.

The best cheap mic I've heard is the BEHRINGER ULTRAVOICE XM1800S (affiliate link). But, it comes in a pack of three for $40. Could work if you can find friends to split with. Still all three are cheaper than the ATR2100 (which is in fact an amazing mic).

There was a booth at Podcast Movement in which I was able to test about a dozen different mics. If you want to listen, it's up on my Dropbox here. The Behringer is the first mic on this test. You can even listen to how much background noise the Blue Yeti picks up. Awful, awful mic in my opinion.

EDIT: Just noticed there's also a Behringer Ultravoice Xm8500 (affiliate link), that goes for $20 for one. I would suspect (and the Amazon ratings suggest) it's as good as the three-for-$40 model.

EDIT EDIT: Also just realized the ones I listed above are XLR. You'd need an XLR to USB cable, about $10.

As others have mentioned, XLR mics with a mixer is a good start for multi-mic. Of course, as long as you have a PC you can output to mixer to for recording.

A great starting mic is the ATR2100. We started with a cheap 2-input Behringer, outputting to my PC and Audacity. We eventually upgraded to using a Zoom H4N Pro going to a macbook and Garageband. The Zoom gives us a bit more recording freedom, which is nice.

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.

Such great advice!

We launched got on Apple's New & Notable with 3-for-$39 mics. You can buy $16 headphones for monitoring that sound better than Beats.

> how should we advertise ourselves

Any money spent on advertising is a waste until you've figured out product/market fit — that is, until you've found people who love your podcast, and learn about who they are and where/how to find more of them. Once you've done that, then you can responsibly spend money on non-organic growth.

The Audio-Technica ATR2100 is only ~$70 and is a quality dynamic USB/XLR for the price. I've recommended it and used it my self for several shows and it's excellent. I wouldn't even consider it a budget mic; it gets the job done and there's no need to upgrade if it's working and sounds good.

Marco Arment of ATP fame even recommended it on his blog.

The Behringer 802 is going for $65 at Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-802-Premium-8-Input-Preamps/dp/B000J5XS3C

That can do two mics on xlr and two more on 1/4" plug, all mixed and going to your computer via USB cable.

I was going to recommend the ATR2100 mic but I noticed they jumped from $35 to $60. I must have got mine on special.

Audacity is free and available for mac.

I would recommend getting a mixer and not doing the USB route. You have better control of sound going in and it makes you feel like a real radio person.

This is a nice starter set up:

Mixer

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-802-Premium-8-Input-Preamps/dp/B000J5XS3C

Mic

This is really where it comes down to preference. I rock a Behringer MIC for my gusts and have this bad boy for my personal mic.

http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/wired_mics/b8dd84773f83092c/index.html

I recommend a board like this: http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-MG102C-Input-Stereo-Mixer/dp/B000Z7C9T8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397682975&sr=8-1&keywords=yamaha+mixer

It's relatively cheap, gets the job done well. You need separate microphones and XLR cables.

This is a good basic mic package:
http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-ULTRAVOICE-XM1800S-Cardioid-Microphones/dp/B000NJ2TIE/ref=pd_sim_MI_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=0X64N5Q3GVRACE7BP79B

Here's a podcast I've done with the exact same products I just linked so you can judge sound quality:
http://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/e/0/c/e0cc3dc16dd225c0/BIOOS24-TheHolyBible.mp3?c_id=7057683&expiration=1397688144&hwt=cc9e95aa2fd3c505643c5285aafdc2e8

I would suggest this mixer as a cheaper alternative. When we first started my podcast we got these mics which although slightly different work well enough (we still use both, added in another MXL990 and a Shure SM57A Beta which although more a live sound mic works okay). The MXL990 is nice though a little more expensive individually. Add in stands and cables and you have a package right around your limit. I would also suggest pop filters. The extra $10-15 for them pays off in the end.

Hope that helps.

I just got 2 ATR2100 USB Mics. They are $63.00 each and have great recording quality. Just recorded my first episode with them and the audio quality is clean and crisp. Make sure you get a pop filter!

What do you need with your $100 budget? Is it just you? I'd recommend this mic with a stand or boom arm if it is just you and you don't need headphones. Start with audacity for editing at the start, but look into the trails for better software like Reaper or Hindenburg.

What we use :) Just grab some pop filters too.
Good luck!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000J5Y282/
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HJ61PK

I record Audiologue in a pretty tight space that echoes pretty bad and I've not had any issues using the Audio-Technica ATR2100. It doesn't need it, but you could pop a foam windscreen on it, and any sort of software gating you do should manage most of the echo. It has for me at least.

I also always recommend reading Marco Arment's mega-review. It runs the gamut of starting out mics to more high-end XLR mixer setups. Always a good resource.

Something like this might make your life easier: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B00DY1F2CS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CFZgDbGFWXJ6H

Most mic threads are standardized, so yours should be compatible. This will let you position it pretty much exactly where your want it.