So, this will be different from last year. Because everything is different from last year. I know 2020 has been a pretty big change for my personal podcast. I always prefer to conduct in-person interviews when I get the chance - in fact, around 400 episodes were done exactly that.
But face-to-face interviews will continue to be a failure for the foreseeable future, so I had to switch the show to a virtual setup. It's not ideal for my aesthetic and creative preferences, but when the world changes dramatically, do your best to adapt to it.
For me, this meant a couple of things. First, and most obviously, move from in-person to virtual interviews. Another more surprising aspect (to me) was the addition of a video element. I've started doing this less frequently, but have incorporated YouTube live streaming into my repertoire. After all, most of my interviews are done on Zoom, with the video stripped. Sometimes it's fun to do both.
So here's a good place to start for the podcaster in your life, whether they're just starting out or looking to transition to remote streaming.
This article contains links to affiliate partners where available. When you shop through these links, ProWellTech could earn an affiliate commission.AKG Lyra
This is a repeat of last year, mostly because I used the heck of it. AKG's microphone has become my go-to for both podcasts and meetings. I've used it for TV appearances, Disrupt panels, and a recent guest appearance on NPR. It sounds good, has easy-to-understand settings, plug-and-play functionality, and looks great.
Price: Around $ 140 from Amazon
Logitech StreamCam
The problem with webcams is that there are a lot of them. The other thing about them is that they are mostly pretty cheap. Logitech's StreamCam is quite expensive in its category. Many or most of these products can be purchased for around $ 100 or less. The StreamCam comes with a premium camera, but for that price you get a lot of camera.
It's probably overkill for most scenarios (see also: our guide to work-from-home gifts), but it offers really solid streaming quality in a compact package. This includes 1080p video at 60fps, with facetracking and good low-light shooting.
Price: $ 170 from Logitech
Pop filter for Yotto microphone
Okay, this is less exciting, but man, man, it's important. I suspect most amateur podcasters don't even consider a windshield, but after listening to a few peaking hisses, you'll understand exactly why this microphone add-on is so important.
I was using another model until his recent, untimely demise. I just got this for $ 12 on Amazon and it was great. There is a clamp at the bottom that connects to most USB microphones (including Blue Yeti and AKG above). The arm is also super flexible which is the biggest problem I had with the older model.
Price: $ 12 from Amazon
GVM light ring
This is the bright ring that made most of our staff great during our first virtual Disrupt. It's been sitting in the corner of my living room for several months now and I use it for both video streams and meetings.
Like everything related to photos or videos, lighting is incredibly important and the GVM is a true powerhouse with 70,000 hours of life declared. It is intense and adjustable / dimmable, giving you really solid realistic color settings.
Price: $ 127 from Amazon
Rodecaster Pro
Another throwback article from last year. And honestly, that's a little bit hopeful that someday soon we'll all be comfortable talking to each other in cramped spaces again. But the Rodecaster Pro is honestly too good not to include it here.
The Rodecaster Pro is a multi-channel mixer that saves up to four input microphones (along with effects and guest phone calls via Bluetooth) on an SD card, which will be of great help in any post-podcast processing. I'm happy to pull this off my list when another podcasting card can offer similar functionality with such an accessible interface and a reasonable price. Until then, Rodecaster Pro continues to be the best way to quickly improve your podcast game.
Price: $ 599 from Sweetwater
Zencastr subscription
Your results will vary, but I know many people who rely on Zencastr for remote logging. The interface is fantastic, it records each track remotely, offers levels in real time and uploads them to the servicer. Files are saved as lossless .wav and separated from guests.
Price: $ 20 / month from Zencastr
Audio-Technica ATH-M50
This is just a great pair of super comfortable and versatile professional over-ear headphones at a reasonable price. Audio-Technica is well-regarded in DJ and studio circles, and the $ 149 price tag offers truly excellent quality without breaking the bank.
Price: $ 149 from Sweetwater
