Starting a podcast can feel overwhelming. With so many microphones, software tools, and hosting platforms out there, it’s easy to get stuck before you even hit record.
That’s why we created this definitive guide to the best podcast setup for beginners – to help you launch with confidence and without wasting time or money.
Whether you’re recording solo, hosting guests, or working with a co-host, this guide will walk you through the essentials of podcast gear, recording software, editing tools, and podcast hosting.
Watch the Full Video
Prefer to watch instead of read? Here’s the full video breakdown from Joe Casabona, podcasting expert and coach .
Best Podcast Microphone for Beginners
There are hundreds of microphones on the market, but beginners don’t need to break the bank to get great sound.
Recommended mic: Samson Q2U
- Affordable and high-quality
- Dynamic mic that captures only your voice
- Dual USB/XLR connection for easy upgrades later
- Plug-and-play simplicity
This mic “just works” so you can focus on creating content, not fiddling with settings.
Why You Need Headphones (and Which Ones to Buy)
Headphones are essential for preventing echo and maintaining high-quality audio.
Recommended headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Prevents your mic from picking up speaker noise
- Comfortable for long recording sessions
- No audio bleed
- Durable and long-lasting
In-ear headphones can work in a pinch, but over-ear models like the M50x are far more reliable for consistent sound quality.
Recording Software for Beginners
If you’re recording solo, your computer likely already has built-in recording software:
- Windows: Sound Recorder
- Mac: QuickTime Player
These are great for basic recordings. Just make sure your volume is properly adjusted and your mic is selected.
If you’re recording with guests or co-hosts, we recommend SquadCast. It’s a cloud-based recording platform that captures each person’s audio locally before uploading it. This provides studio-quality sound even if someone has a weak internet connection.
Editing Your Podcast
Yes – you should edit your podcast. Very few shows can get away with a raw, unedited format.
Recommended editing software: Descript
- Easy-to-use with transcript-based editing
- Seamless integration with SquadCast
- Allows you to clean up audio, cut filler words, and add music
If you need a free alternative, Audacity is a solid open-source option — though it has a steeper learning curve than Descript.
Podcast Hosting
Your podcast needs a place to live. A podcast host like RSS.com stores your audio files and generates your RSS feed – which is what platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music use to distribute your show.
We recommend RSS.com
- Unlimited episodes and downloads
- Built-in monetization options
- Automatic distribution to major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube
- Free podcast website
- Advanced, IAB certified podcast analytics
- Free podcast transcripts on all paid plans
You can sign up for free at RSS.com and use the code RSSFREEMONTH for a free month on any paid plan.
Final Thoughts
With the right setup, podcasting doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here’s a quick checklist of what you need:
- Microphone: Samson Q2U
- Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Recording Software: QuickTime or SquadCast
- Editing Software: Descript (or Audacity)
- Podcast Hosting: RSS.com
You’re now ready to start your podcast journey – and we’re here to help every step of the way.
Recommended Reading
Check out these helpful posts on the RSS.com blog:
