How to Build a Podcast Setup

Podcasts have taken over the world, propelled by our time in lockdown, and have only continued to climb in popularity ever since. If you’re building a podcast setup, it’s because you’ve got something important to say, which means you need the right podcast kit to make it easy.

With your idea firmly defined and your guests ready to go, today’s focus will be purely on equipment. So, read on as we help you build your ideal podcast starter kit, including a camera, a microphone, and all the other kit you might need.

What do you actually need to start a podcast?

If we’re talking about a bare-bones podcast setup, you don’t actually need much to begin. A cheap microphone that attaches to your phone is enough to get you talking on your own, even if the quality won’t be the best. There is nothing wrong with a Minimum Viable Product to get you started.

But if you’re here, you’re likely seeking a more comprehensive setup. The first step is to define how you want to share your podcast.

Are you sharing the audio only via an RSS feed? Will you be uploading the podcast to YouTube with visuals of the conversation as well as audio? Do you plan to promote your podcast by distributing clips from the show across social media?

Consider what you want to do and how you’re going to share the clips; this will define what should end up on your podcast equipment list.

Podcast Equipment Checklist for Audio-Only

If you’re sticking to the traditional audio format, then your focus should be almost entirely on the warmth and clarity of your voice (and any guests’). You want to work as hard as you can to eliminate echo or background noise so your listeners can focus on your message.

With that in mind, here is the checklist we’d suggest. We offer full podcast kit options for you to choose from if you don’t want to pick out each piece of equipment for yourself.

Your podcast microphone.

This is the heart of your show. For podcasting, we almost always recommend a dynamic podcast microphone. Unlike condenser mics, dynamic mics are less sensitive to background noise (like your neighbour's lawnmower). Rode is the industry standard here, offering everything from the entry-level PodMic to the professional Broadcaster.

Keep in mind that you’ll likely need at least two of these if you are hosting guests in your studio, so incorporate that into your budget expectations.

Your podcast recorder or audio mixer.

You need a way to get the sound from the mic into your computer. A dedicated podcast recorder like the Zoom PodTrak or the Rode Rødecaster Pro II lets you record multiple guests on separate tracks, which is a lifesaver during the editing process.

Closed-back headphones.

Monitoring your audio is essential. You need to hear if a guest is too far from the mic or if there is a weird hum in the line. Closed-back headphones prevent the sound from leaking back into the microphone.

Boom arms and pop filters.

A boom arm keeps the mic off the desk (reducing "thumping" sounds when you move), and a pop filter softens those harsh percussive sounds (Ps and Bs are an audio editor’s worst nightmare).

You might also want to consider acoustic foam for your studio or recording room, if you have one. This absorbs stray sounds and prevents echo, so your room immediately gains clean, clear audio.

Podcast Setup Checklist for Video & Audio

We’re in 2026, when video podcasts are showing how incredibly effective they are on platforms like YouTube (even Spotify has incorporated a video feature for this reason). Adding a visual element is a big help, inviting your audience further into the conversation and showcasing your guests’ reactions! Not to mention, you can promote your podcast via avenues like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

Of course, to do this, you’ll need a few things beyond your audio setup.

Your podcast camera.

You want a camera that can handle long recording sessions without overheating. Mirrorless cameras from Sony, Canon, or Panasonic are the top choices. Look for a podcast camera with "Face Tracking" AF to ensure you and your guests stay in sharp focus even if you lean back in your chair.

Key lighting.

Good video is largely about good lighting. At a minimum, you want a key light, which is a large, soft light source (like a Ring Light or a Softbox) positioned at a 45-degree angle to your face to fill in shadows.

Memory cards and power supplies.

Video files are huge, so high-speed SD cards are a must. We also recommend using dummy batteries or AC adapters so your camera doesn't die right in the middle of a great interview.

Video switcher.

If you are running multiple cameras (one on you, one on the guest, one wide shot), a video switcher like the Blackmagic ATEM Mini lets you cut between angles in real time, saving you hours of editing later.

Get set up with the team at Photogear.

We are New Zealand’s photography and videography experts, ready to help you build the perfect podcast starter kit no matter what stage of the journey you’re at.

Browse our range online or come visit us in-store for expert in-person help selecting your podcast kit.