With so many content creators taking their podcasts on the road, it’s become easy to put together a portable audio podcasting setup on virtually any budget. We’ll briefly explore the type of equipment you need for on-the-go podcasting and help you discover how simple mobile podcasting can be.
A portable podcast setup can be incredibly straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Portable podcast recorder
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Batteries
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Microphone(s)
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XLR Cable(s)
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Headphones
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Laptop or tablet
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DAW software
Let’s break these items down to see just how portable your setup can be.
Portable Podcast Recorders
For an in-depth shopping guide to portable podcast recorders, check out Best Portable Recorders for Podcasting on the Go.
The most common way to put together a portable podcast setup is to start with a compact portable recorder. A portable recorder can typically be battery operated and usually has an SD card insert, allowing you to record the entire podcast to the device without needing to be tethered to a computer. A podcast recorder also often has two or more microphone inputs. Additionally, some recorders have built-in mics, giving you the freedom to record out on the field without the need for external microphones. Finally, most recorders will also usually function as audio-interfaces so that you can record straight to a computer if necessary.
The Zoom H8 is a classic example of a battery powered portable recorder that’s optimal for podcasting. You’ll get 4 XLR microphone inputs and a configurable touchscreen that has a podcasting mode. The podcasting mode lets you work with 4 mic channels and 2 sound pad channels. If you’re recording on the field and are planning a very simple podcast, you can simply use the detachable stereo condenser microphone capsule. During podcasting, you can also utilize some handy on-board effects, such as a limiter to avoid distortion and a low-cut filter to eliminate low-frequency rumbles. Record your tracks straight to an SD card or connect it up to your computer to use as an audio interface.
Portable Mics
For those using a portable podcast recorder, you’ll need a good quality microphone that’s also easy to take on the road. Here, you’ve got a few options to consider.
Handheld Mics
Many successful podcasters prefer to use handheld mics, not only because they’re simple to set up, but also because they’re portable and provide freedom to move around. Although it may require a touch more work in post-production, using a handheld microphone saves you the hassle of lugging around a clunky mic stand or boom arm. All you need is an XLR cable, and you can connect the mic to the portable recorder in seconds.
That said, if you do decide to go with a handheld mic, do some research to ensure you’re holding it the right way and that you’re properly distanced from the microphone. Most handheld mics used for podcasting will also benefit from a foam pop filter or windscreen.
Two high quality yet cost effective handheld microphone options are the Shure SM58 and Shure SM57, which are both known for their low handling noise and versatility. And given that the Shure SM57 benefits from the proximity effect, it can also be used to create a warmer and more robust vocal delivery, which is perfect for podcasting.
Wireless Mics
If you’re out on the field or walking around while podcasting, you may want to check out some wireless lavalier mics. These days, a wireless microphone system can not only record to your mobile device but may also feature its own internal memory, allowing your mic system to be used both as a microphone and as a portable recording device. For example, the RODE Wireless GO is a two-person digital wireless lavalier system that gives you the freedom of being completely detached from any external recording device. Simply clip on the mics and record the podcast directly to the transmitter’s internal memory. Alternatively, you can connect the dual-channel receiver to your smartphone or tablet for recording to an external app.
Headphones
Of course, you’ll need at least one set of headphones to monitor your recording, as well as to edit and mix your podcast in post-production. For this application, you should opt for headphones that are well-balanced and highly detailed so that you’re getting an accurate reproduction of your recording. For an in-depth guide on which headphones to choose, check out Best Headphones for Podcasting.
Laptop or Tablet
Thanks to your new portable gear, you won’t need to be hooked up to a laptop while recording your mobile podcast. However, you will eventually need to go back to your computer to edit and mix your podcast once it’s recorded. You’ll also need a computer or tablet to upload your podcast to a hosting platform. Fortunately, laptops tend to be very compact these days, while DAW software (Digital Audio Workstation) is easily downloadable and doesn’t have to cost an arm a leg. In fact, if you own a Macbook, you’ll find a DAW (Garage Band) preinstalled on your computer.
If you want something even more compact and travel friendly, consider investing in a tablet, like the iPad Pro. They have become impressively powerful over the last few years and can easily handle processing at least a few tracks of speech and music. The other great thing about many tablets is that you can add a mobile data plan to them and upload your podcast from anywhere using your cellular network. No Wi-Fi required.
Finally, if you’re wondering how to move your podcast recording from your portable recorder to your computer or tablet, it’s easy. Simply connect the recorder to the device via USB to transfer the files, or buy an SD card reader to move the files to your computer or tablet directly from the SD card itself.
Final Thoughts
If you’re podcasting on the go, leave your giant broadcast microphone, mic stand, and dedicated audio interface at home. As you can see, a compact podcast recorder, a few handheld or wireless mics, and a laptop/tablet can easily fit into a backpack for transport. At the end of the day, that’s really all you need to take your show on the road and get it published.
For more information about the products mentioned, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages.
