What you need to start podcasting
Some say that humans are “wired for sound” and “the brain never stops listening” or, for those capturing audio for video, that “audio makes up 70% of the video quality”. So it’s no wonder why good sound is so important, but also why it’s a little daunting and complex for many, as there is a lot to know, and a tidal wave of product choices. So how do you cut through all the noise?
At Vistek we understand the importance of great sound, and offer a wide lineup of audio products, at an assortment of price points, ideally suited to a very broad range of audio applications.
We’ve built these pages as a simple guide to popular product choices, for many common applications, as well as to provide you with links to various articles and videos, so you can learn about core audio fundamentals and techniques, as well as tips and tricks, to both help broaden both your knowledge and your skill set with audio.
So no matter whether you are just getting started with sound, or you just want to further improve your audio expertise, you can trust Vistek to help you understand how good, better and the best audio is captured, recorded, processed and delivered.
At Vistek we know that it’s not just the image, but also the sound that matters!
If you have any tips, tricks or fun at home projects to share, please reach out to us on social to share.
Audio for Podcasting: 10 important things you need to get started
Podcasting has become a very hot topic over the last few years, but how do you get started?
In this blog post, we’ve put together a list of 10 important things we think you need to get started podcasting:
Go direct with USB microphones for quality podcasting
Rode Microphones NT-USB Mini USB Condenser Microphone Compatible w/PC, Mac,iPad and Most Android Tablets
Designed to deliver crystal-clear, professional-sounding audio direct to a computer or tablet, it’s the perfect microphone for podcasters.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones NTUSB Studio Microphone
It is fully compatible with all mainstream recording applications on both Windows and Mac OS based computers, as well as the Apple iPad using RØDE Rec, GarageBand, or any other recording app that accepts an external microphone.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones Podcaster USB Microphone
The RØDE Podcaster is a dynamic, end-address USB microphone that combines broadcast-quality audio with the simplicity of USB connectivity, allowing recording direct to a computer without the need for an additional digital interface.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones Ai-1 Discrete Class-A Audio Interface with NT1Kit
RØDE’s AI-1 Audio Interface is stacked with incredible technology to ensure recording on your computer is easy, versatile and sounds superb.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMTHX20 THX-20 USB Headset - Video Calls & Gaming
Join the conversation with Thornmax's Stereo headset with built-in microphone. Plug in and participate in video calls, webinars, online courses, video games or just listen to your favorite digital content.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMM9 M9 Fireball USB Microphone
With Thronmax Fireball, quick and easy recording is finally a reality. Simply mount Fireball on the included sticky pad stand, plug the USB cable into your Mac or PC and that’s it.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMM8 MDrill PULSE Noise Cancelling USB Microphone
Pulse USB microphones are perfect for streaming live audio in stunning quality. Take your Twitch channel to the professional level with pristine audio.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMM2PKIT MDrill ONE PRO USB Microphone - Kit
The MDrill One Pro microphone’s beautiful design and proprietary VERTIGAIN® Technology record unparalleled, broadcast quality audio.
| Buy Now
.jpg)
Understanding audio – Part 1 The basics
Some say that humans are “wired for sound” and “the brain never stops listening” or, for those capturing audio for video, that “audio makes up 70% of the video quality”. So it’s no wonder why good sound is so important, but also why it’s a little daunting and complex for many, as there is a lot to know, and a tidal wave of product choices. So how do you cut through all the noise?
READ THE POST HEREMicrophones for podcasting that require a mixer or interface card
For connecting to an external system or mixer or audio interface you may want to consider an XLR large diaphragm desktop type for its excellent vocal characteristics, or if you are connecting to a portable system perhaps Lavalier type is most suitable.
Wired lav microphones for podcasting
Saramonic SR-ULM10 Upgraded USB Lavalier Microphone
For Windows and Mac computers, USB microphone offers excellent sound quality
| Buy Now
Audio Technica ATR3350XIS Omnilav-Condenser Microphone for SLR, Recorders and Smartphones
The newscaster-style ATR3350xiS omnidirectional lavalier microphone is engineered for intelligible, accurate voice reproduction.
| Buy Now
Saramonic XLavMic-O XLR Phantom Power Lavalier Omni- Directional Microphone
The Saramonic XLavMic-O XLR lavalier interview features omnidirectional lavalier to give the interviewer. The omnidirectional lavalier provides a uniform frequency response and limits unwanted noise pickup.
| Buy Now
Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphone Omni Directional
The ECM-44 is an affordable alternative to the traditional hand held microphone and being 'hands free' it allows the presenter to concentrate on her/his performance
| Buy Now
Wondering which microphone would be best for your shoot?
So you can figure out the type of mic best suited for what you're recording, in this video, RocketJump Film School covers how a microphone actually works, the difference between mic and line levels, XLR cables, pre-amps, phantom power, transducer types, and mic polar patterns.
Desktop microphones for podcasting
Rode Microphones PodMic Podcast Dynamic Microphone
When Rode designed the PodMic, they set out to create the ultimate Podcasting microphone. Durable, great-sounding, easy to use and flexible.
| Buy Now
Zoom ZDM1 Podcast Mic Pack
Whether you’re taking your first step into podcasting or upgrading your setup, the ZDM-1 Podcast Mic Pack includes everything you need to create professional-quality podcasts.
| Buy Now
Zoom ZUM-2PMP USB Podcast Microphone Bundle
The ZUM-2 Podcast Mic Pack gives you everything you need to record and stream professional-sounding podcasts right on your computer.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones ProCaster Broadcast Quality Dynamic Microphone Comes with Pouch and Mic Holder
The RØDE Procaster is a professional broadcast quality dynamic microphone, specifically designed to offer no-compromise performance for voice applications.
| Buy Now
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Studio Vocal Microphone
The SM7B dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications.
| Buy Now
Shure SM58-LC Uni Dynamic Microphone
e legendary Shure vocal mic tuned to accentuate the warmth and clarity of lead and back-up vocals. Consistently the first choice of performers around the globe.
| Buy Now
Sennheiser MD46 Dynamic ENG Microphone High-Quality Cardioid
Designed for audio journalists and field reporters, the Sennheiser MD 46 offers a host of advantages.
| Buy Now
Sennheiser E945 Dynamic Super- Cardioid Vocal Microphone - Pro Series
The Sennheiser E945 is a dynamic supercardioid handheld microphone designed for performances and stage applications.
| Buy Now
Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a cost-effective studio condenser microphone intended for vocal and general instrument capturing in project and professional studio environments.
| Buy Now
Rode XCM50 Condenser USB Microphone
The XCM-50 is a professional condenser USB microphone optimised for streaming and gaming. It delivers highly detailed audio, with a full frequency response and tight cardioid polar pattern tuned for speech applications.
| Buy Now
Audio Technica AT2020 Studio Microphone Pack with ATH-M20x, Boom & XLR Cable
The AT2020PK vocal microphone pack is designed for streamers, podcasters, and other content creators who need a versatile, easy-to-install, easy-to-adjust boom microphone setup.
| Buy Now
Audio Technica AT2005-USBPK Streaming/Podcasting Pack
The AT2005USBPK vocal microphone pack is designed for streamers, podcasters, and other content creators who need a versatile, easy-to-install, easy-to-adjust boom microphone setup.
| Buy Now
Understanding Audio – Part 2: Balanced vs. Unbalanced Audio Levels, Cables & Connections
In our Understanding Audio – Part 1: The basic things you need to know post, we discuss the dynamics of sound, terminology and what you need to achieve great sound in your recordings. In Understanding Audio – Part 2, we go over balanced vs. unbalanced audio levels and the types of cables and connections you will need to work with both.
READ THE POST HEREWireless microphones for podcasting
Sennheiser Portable lavalier set
A plug & play, entry-level wireless series operating in the 2.4 GHz spectrum for license-free worldwide use. Includes (1) ME2-II clip-on lapel mic, (1) XSW-D MINI Jack TX (3.5mm), (1) XSW-D MIN
| Buy Now
Sennheiser EW112P G4 Camera-Mount Wireless Microphone System ME 2-II Lavalier Mic - A: 516 to 558 MHz
The fourth generation evolution wireless series makes professional wireless technology even more simple, flexible and reliable. For musicians, filmmakers, convention speakers and for use in the auditorium: G4 is a system that grows with you.
| Buy Now
Sony UWP-D21/25 Bodypack-Lavalier Mic Pack - CH.25
Capture pure wireless sound in any shooting situation, from weddings to news, sporting events and documentaries.
| Buy Now
Saramonic UwMic9S Kit2 (TX9s + TX9s + RX9s) UHF Wireless Microphone System
The Saramonic UwMic9S Kit 2 is a professional and powerful, advanced dual-channel, camera-mountable UHF wireless system that delivers premium, broadcast-quality sound.
| Buy Now
Rode WIRELESS GO II Wireless SINGLE Microphone System
The Wireless GO II Single is an extremely versatile and ultra-compact wireless microphone system consisting of a dual-channel receiver and single transmitter.
| Buy Now
Saramonic Blink 500 B2 3.5MM 2.4G Dual Channel Wireless Microphone （TX+TX+RX）
The Saramonic Blink500 B1 is an incredibly compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use wireless microphone system for DSLR , mirrorless and video cameras, or mobile devices that delivers detailed, broadcast-quality sound.
| Buy Now
Saramonic Blink 500 PRO B2 Kit 3.5mm 2.4G 1x Dual RX, 2 x TX 2x Lav Mic
The Saramonic Blink500 Pro system is an incredibly lightweight, ultracompact and easy-to-use wireless microphone system for up to 2 people.
| Buy Now
Hollyland Lark 150 Wirelss Dual Lavalier Microphone System with 3.5mm TRS, 2x TX and 1x RX
With DSP (Digital Signal Processor) Intelligent Noise Cancellation, Anti-Vibration Sound Chamber Design, Ultra-Wide Frequency Response.
| Buy Now
Shotgun microphones for podcasting
Rode Microphones NTG-1 Condenser Microphone Shotgun Ultra Lightweight
The RODE NTG-1 is a lightweight condenser shotgun microphone, specifically designed for professional applications within the film, video, television, voice-over and ENG industries.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones NTG-2 Condensor Microphone Shotgun Lightweight
A wide bandwidth and controlled polar response coupled with low noise SMT electronics, makes the NTG-2 the perfect choice for film, video engineering and voice-over work.
| Buy Now
Sennheiser MKE600 Shotgun Mic - Includes Foam Windshield & Shock Mount
The Sennheiser MKE 600 is a shotgun microphone designed for use with a camcorder or HDSLR. Building on the company's extensive expertise in designing shotgun microphones, it is able to take on even the toughest video sound challenges
| Buy Now
Sony ECM-VG1 Electret Condenser Microphone
The Sony ECM-VG1 Electret Condenser Microphone is a rugged, all-metal shotgun microphone with a supercardioid polar pattern, making it a well suited choice for camcorder-mounted and boom pole operation alike.
| Buy Now
Roland UVC-02 USB Video Capture
The user-friendly UVC-02 Web Presentation Dock is an all-in-one connection hub for crystal-clear audio and video, using an HDMI camera and professional microphone, without the hassle of a complicated set-up.
|
Audio mixers for podcasting
There’s a large selection of mixers and systems available to consider: ease of operation is key. The purpose of an external device is to make things easier and more logical to operate in a live environment, sliding faders make it quick and easy to adjust levels, but even a knob is easier than clicking on something in a software interface. Ease of connectivity is also important! Does it support XLRs, jacks line levels, etc. that make it easy to connect all the sources you need. Remember to consider the amount of total sources you need to control both for today, and if your system is to grow for tomorrow. Then consider if you want something that connects directly to a computer via a built in interface or how you plan to interface with an external device, how remote audio connections would work through the mixer. And also perhaps consider built-in playback of stingers, openings, closings or how you would handle those, and maybe even built-in recording capability.
Mackie 5-channel Compact Mixer
5-Channel compact mixer with proven high-headroom, low-noise performance
| Buy Now
Mackie 10 Channel Professional Effects Mixer with USB
Designed for maximum versatility making it perfect for live sound, home recording, content creation, and live streaming
| Buy Now
Zoom PodTrak P4
The PodTrak P4 has everything you need to capture professional sounding podcasts to SD card or to your computer.
| Buy Now
Zoom LiveTrak L-8, 8-Channel Mixer (6 combo, + 2 TS)
Creators are evolving—and so is Zoom. LiveTrak L-8 makes it easier than ever to mix, monitor and record professional-sounding podcasts and music performances in one portable, affordable package.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones RODECaster PRO Podcast Production Studio
The 4 high-quality microphone channels are able to power studio condenser microphones as well as conventional dynamic microphones. You can literally be recording your first podcast within minutes of taking the RØDECaster Pro out of the box.
| Buy Now
Rode RODECaster PRO II Production Studio
The RØDECaster Pro II is the ultimate audio production solution for streamers, podcasters, musicians and content creators.
| Buy Now
Zoom PodTrak P8
This new podcast mixer-recorder has all the functions you need to record, edit and mix podcast audio with its full-colour touchscreen interface.
| Buy Now
Roland VR-1HD Live AV Streaming Mixer
If you’re a content creator seeking maximum engagement, livestreaming outperforms uploaded video by a significant margin; audiences are larger, watch for longer and post more comments.
| Buy Now
We are adding new live streaming events daily, check out our events page!
At Vistek, we firmly believe there’s no end to the learning process and we admire those who seek guidance with the goal to get better. In our ongoing series of seminars we showcase a roster of experienced lecturers, those whose expertise and enthusiasm make learning a most enjoyable experience.
Audio interface cards for podcasting
Most computers require a USB-style interface to connect external audio devices, and many computers still come with the mic/speaker 3.5mm connectors or a single combo TRRS for audio, but for more professional use like with most mixers, and if you want to use better mics it’s best to come through a USB. USB 2 or 3 are most common, and if your computer is newer and only supports USB-C you will likely have to buy an adapter to support USB 2-3 connectivity, or some new mics and interfaces designed primarily for smartphones and tablets can also directly connect. Many beginner podcasting mics have a USB interface built right in so they can connect directly and some smaller mixers also have a USB interface built in. Or you can simply utilize an external interface box that typically has analogue connectors on it and a USB output. This interface box can simply sit between the mic or mixer depending on its capability. The USB is discoverable as a source in most common audio and collaboration apps.
Zoom U-22 2 Channel Portable USB Interface
The U-22 is the essential mobile recording and performance interface, with an innovative 2-in/2-out ultra-portable design that makes it easy to connect to a laptop or an iPhone/iPad and create great-sounding audio anywhere.
| Buy Now
Zoom USB 3.0 Audio Interface
There’s a whole new world of possibilities for Mac and PC Creators — high-speed, high-resolution, and low-latency. Upgrade your rig with the rackmountable UAC-8, and add 18 inputs and 20 outputs to your USB 3.0-equipped Mac or Windows computer.
| Buy Now
Focusrite Plc. Scarlett 18i8 USB 2.0 Audio Interface (3rd Generation)
With its high channel count, compact size and a huge selection of software in the box, 18i8 is ready to record your band wherever you are.
| Buy Now
PreSonus Audio AudioBox 96 USB 2.0 Audio Recording Interface
This simple, handy little audio/MIDI interface has just the right features for basic recording needs, allowing you to plug in and start recording up to 24-bit, 96 kHz audio right away.
| Buy Now
Audio Recorders for podcasting
There’s a huge range of audio recorders from portable handheld style, to compact professional mixers with built-in recording. Some mixing consoles also offer built-in recording. All will generally do a good job, while some have better or differing specs and operational features. Your choice in a recorder will likely come down to the type and amount of audio sources you need to connect and record, as well as what type of connections you therefore need to support.
Zoom H4n Pro All Black Handy Audio Recorder
Advanced X/Y microphones, incredibly natural-sounding preamps, and built-in cutting-edge effects make the H4n Pro the ultimate portable 4 track recorder for musicians.
| Buy Now
Zoom H6 Handy Recorder All Black
Four interchangeable input capsules—X/Y, MS, Shotgun, and Dual XLR/TRS Combo—make the H6 the ultimate chameleon of the audio world, and its advanced preamps make it the best-sounding one too.
| Buy Now
Zoom H8 Handy Recorder
Whether you’re capturing audio on location, recording and tracking music, or producing a podcast, with 3 distinct application-driven interface options, the H8 instantly adapts to the feature set required for your job.
| Buy Now
Zoom F6 Field Recorder
With 6 inputs, Zoom’s solid time code, multiple power options and wireless control, the F6 is poised to be a filmmaker's new secret weapon.
| Buy Now
Zoom F8nPRO MultiTrack Field Recorder with 32-BIT Float Recording
Take control of your hectic and complex productions, eliminate the need to adjust gain and monitor each track, and use the highest quality sound that will enable you to make magic in post.
| Buy Now
Tascam DR-70D Linear PCM Recorder
The DR-70D is a compact audio recorder that allows the aspiring DSLR user to create audio recordings in very high quality in parallel to their film or video shots. The recorder can be mounted directly between a tripod and the camera or on top of the camera, resulting in a compact package.
| Buy Now
Tascam DR-60DMKII 4-Channel Portable Recorder for DSLR
TASCAM's DR-60DmkII, an update of the award winning DR-60D, is the audio recording solution for on-set filmmakers and videographers. The streamlined design fits perfectly under a DSLR camera rig, without relying on bulky recorders or the limited audio quality of the camera’s microphone in.
| Buy Now
Headphones for podcasting
Great accessories to help your podcasting
Gator Pro Desktop Mini Tripod Stand for Wired Microphones
Lightweight collapsible desktop microphone stand great for remote podcast interviews.
| Buy Now
Gator Pro Short Mic Stand w/ Single Section Boom and Twist Clutch
Short microphone stand with compact base, includes 16" single section boom.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones DS-1 Microphone Desktop Stand
The DS1 is a table top desk stand for your RØDE microphones. The DS1 gives you the ability to mount your microphone on a desktop for interview, dictation and other related uses.
| Buy Now
Rode Microphones Studio Arm (Comes with desk clamp and permanent install adaptor)
The PSA1 has a horizontal reach of 820mm, and a vertical reach of 840mm. It is supplied with velcro cable wraps and both desk-clamp and desk-insert style attachments for verstile mounting in desks up to 55mm thick (clamp) or 70mm (insert).
| Buy Now
K & M 210/9-Black Mic Stand 201 A/2 w/ 211/1 Telescopic Boom Arm
A more compact version of the classic 210/2. The combination of the long-legged 201A/2 mic stand and the 211/1 telescopic boom arm. Like the 210/2, the 210/9 sets the standard for professional microphone boom stands.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMS1 S1 CASTER Clamp-on Boom Stand - for USB Microphones
Caster lets you put your mic where you want it, when you want it. Caster fits perfectly into your game streaming or podcasting setup and will impress your audience.
| Buy Now
Thronmax TMS2XLR S2 CASTER Clamp-on Boom Stand - for XLR Microphones
Caster features a broadcast studio-grade all-tube design with internal springs and hidden cable management. All friction-hinges are hand-tightening, no need for any tools, and a full 360-degree rotation means you are covered for any application.
| Buy Now
Gator Pro Tripod Microphone Stand w/ Telescoping Boom and Twist Clutch
Tripod mic stand with telescoping boom and standard twist clutch
| Buy Now
For 40 years, Vistek has been the choice of Canada’s leading image-makers.
With Vistek Commercial Sales, you get an experienced team of digital imaging, workflow and systems consultants with extensive knowledge in Professional Photo as well as Film and Television, Professional and Broadcast Video, Pro Audio, Systems, Applications, Computing, Accessories, Lighting, Grip and much more.
We’d very much like to offer the services of the best support team in the industry to your company. So why not contact us for a product quotation or complete project consulting, plan and installation. We look forward to hearing from you.
Contact us for a Personal demo, Commercial quote or Business leasing options
From product demonstrations and one-on-one consultation right through to installation, our experts are there to provide before-and-after sales support, even on-site training.
Sign up for great sales, online events and more every week!
Events by world-renowned photographers and filmmakers. New product launches and time limited promotions. The chance to win great prizes and save on your favourite brands! Read more.