Before you get started podcasting, you'll want to select the recording hardware that is appropriate for your needs. You may be doing all your recording from an office, or studio, or you may need to be more mobile. Consider what type of podcasting you'd like to do as you read through our list of recommended audio hardware.

The Division of Public Affairs has a limited supply of recorders and microphones to loan. To reserve one of these recorders and for more information and advice on purchasing podcasting hardware, contact Brian Smokler, brian.smokler@vanderbilt.edu

Brian also maintains a blog with more information about recording hardware and software. Visit the blog at briansmokler.blogspot.com.

Mobile "Field" and Classroom Recording

The following options are small and computer-free, perfect for working in the classroom or field, whether you want to capture a lecture, a conversation on-the-fly or a thought you had.

1) Inexpensive:Olympus DS30 Digital Recorder (~$100)
You can pair this with an inexpensive lavalier mic, such as at the Olympus ME15 (~$22) or the higher-quality Sennheiser ME2 Omnidirectional Lavalier microphone (~$190)

2) Higher-quality: mAudio Microtrack 24/96 (~$500). This works well with the Sennheiser mic listed above.

Complete Studio
For those that want high production value, stereo recordings. If you plan to have two or more people participating in your podcast, ex. an interview or round-table discussion, this bundle is for you. You get two studio-quality microphones, USB computer audio interface/preamp, mic cables, and powerful recording software. Don't forget the desktop mic stands.

M-Audio Computer Recording Bundle (~$320)
Desktop Microphone Stand ($10)

Personal Studio
This setup offers studio-quality recording with a minimum of equipment. The single microphone plugs directly into your computer's USB port, and the spider mount will reduce any noise caused by vibrations.

Samson Audio Studio Condenser Mic with USB Output ($79)
Samson Audio Spider Mount ($30)
Desktop Microphone Stand ($10)
Total Approximate Price: $119

Personal Basic
This microphone/stereo headset is a very affordable solution for situations where pro-quality isn't a necessity, and you just need something basic for your personal podcasting needs. This is also useful if you're conducting interviews via online audio chat.

Precision PC Microphone/Stereo Headset ($19)

Portions of this content were contributed by Penn State University.