Podcast Gear & Equipment: Microphones, Mixers, Stands & More

Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

By Ross Winn

Updated September 21, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Audio quality is critical when it comes to video production. On-camera shotgun microphones are an easy way to up your audio quality when recording with a DSLR video camera. Another benefit is that they don’t have to be mounted to the camera, you can get an extension cable and mount them on a boom pole or tripod to get the mic closer to your subject.

If you’re interested in other options besides shotgun mics for interviews, take a look at these interview microphones.

We’re going to take a look at the best shotgun mics in 2024 that are designed to be used on-camera, but of course, will work off-camera as well…

Quick Overview: Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

IMAGE	PRODUCT
	OUR TOP PICK Rode VideoMic Pro+ Designed for camcorders, DSLR cameras and portable audio recorders Broadcast-quality audio Super-cardioid polar pattern ensures that surrounding audio is minimised	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic Pro Features a native 40Hz-20kHz response High-pass filter at 80Hz -10dB level attenuation is ideal for recording loud sound sources	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic Standard sized shoe mount Employs a super-cardioid polar pattern for highly directional recording Features a native 40Hz-20kHz response	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic GO Delivers clear, crisp, directional audio Reduces other surrounding sounds No complicated switches or settings	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMicro Designed to improve the audio quality of your videos High-quality cardioid condenser microphone capsule Reduces distracting peripheral sounds	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	TAKSTAR SGC-598 10dB sensitivity enhancement 200Hz low-frequency attenuation Specially designed for the camera and high-sensitivity condenser microphone	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Shure VP83 & VP83F LensHopper Detailed, high-definition audio Full low-end response For professional results every time	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Saramonic VMIC Recorder Polar pattern super cardioid Records 16-bit/48kHz WAV audio to a micro SDHC card 3.5mm headphone monitor input	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Canon DM-E1 Directional Microphone Shotgun and stereo (90 Degree/120 Degree) directional controls Included wind screen Shock mount construction helps reduce camera operation noise	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Sennheiser MKE 600 Pronounced directivity Maximal rejection of side noise Switchable "Low Cut" filter minimizes wind noise	VIEW ON AMAZON →

Best Audio Mixers For Podcasting & Music (w/ USB Interface)

By Ross Winn

Updated September 21, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Because the best mixer for podcasting will vary depending on your needs, how many people are involved, your experience with audio equipment, and much more, I’ve broken up the recommendations into mixers that work well for single-person and 2-person podcasts, and recommendations for podcasts with 3 or 4 (or more) hosts.

One thing to keep in mind when deciding on an audio mixer is that you will need an XLR input for each person in the room or studio. Even if you’re doing a solo podcast, if you ever want to have a guest join you live, you’ll need a spare input and XLR mic for them. Because of that, I would actually look for a mixer that has more inputs than you think you’ll need.

For example, if you’re doing a 2-host podcast, you should consider mixers from the multi-person podcast section. Some people might only ever have guests through Skype or phone calls, but you never know.

I’m only going to include mixers that include a USB connection so you don’t have to worry about how to connect them to your desktop computer or needing additional equipment to get your recordings onto your podcasting laptop.

USB audio interfaces are also popular ways to record on your computer (or connect to a mixer) but you usually won’t have the same control over EQ, levels, gain, etc.

Best Laptops For Music Production & Recording (& Podcasting)

By Ross Winn

Updated April 7, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Updated in January 2020.

So you want to get serious about music production or podcasting? You’ll need a good laptop that can handle everything you throw at it.

There is a good chance you’ll have lots of programs and tabs open at the same time and you will need the ability to add at least 1 extra screen (many people use 2 or 3). These usage requirements use a lot of RAM and graphic power, respectively. I recommend getting at least 16GB RAM if at all possible.

Most important for audio processing is a CPU with fast single-core performance. This will allow you to get your mixes into a single file much quicker and process effects and chains without the CPU needing to wait, among many other benefits. 8th generation Intel i7 processors are the best, followed by Intel i5. 7th generation processors are also excellent.

We’re just going to focus on the best laptops for music production and podcasting. There are many more options for desktop and all-in-one computers that work well for audio recording and podcast recording, but the flexibility and portability of a laptop makes it a must-have.

Best Microphones For Gaming 🎮 & Livestreaming 📹

By Ross Winn

Updated April 7, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking for a great microphone (without a headset) to help you commentate your gaming recordings or live streaming on Twitch or YouTube in 2024? You’re in the right place!

When choosing a stand-alone gaming microphone, you’ll want something that doesn’t get in your way and will easily pick up your voice. But you don’t want it to pick up too much other noise from the keyboard or mouse. It’s a delicate balance.

Most microphones attached to headphones or headsets have pretty poor audio quality, so let’s find you something that will make you sound more professional. In fact, audio quality is much more important than video quality.

Looking for XLR microphones?

Best Tabletop Microphone Desk Stands For Podcasting & Home Studios

By Ross Winn

Updated April 7, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Many people who want to get started podcasting think all they need is a decent microphone to started. While that’s mostly true, you need a way to get the microphone into a good position in front of your mouth as well.

If you plan on using a shock mount, you will need a microphone stand in order to attach the mount as well.

There are tons of different options when it comes to microphone stands: boom arms that attach to a desk, floor tripod boom arms, built-in mic stands, tabletop desk stands and more.

We’re going to take a look at the best tabletop desk stands to hold your microphone for 2024. These are more portable and less expensive than a larger boom arm. The prices for these mic stands range from under $15 to about $60.

Featured Podcasting Tools For:

Podcast Hosting

Buzzsprout

Web Hosting

Bluehost

Podcast Music

PremiumBeat

Remote Recording

Iris

Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

Best Audio Mixers For Podcasting & Music (w/ USB Interface)

Best Laptops For Music Production & Recording (& Podcasting)

Best Microphones For Gaming 🎮 & Livestreaming 📹

Best Tabletop Microphone Desk Stands For Podcasting & Home Studios