by  Marcus Schmahl  | | 5,0 / 5,0 |  Approximate reading time: 7 Minutes
Podcast Setup with Professional Sound for Little Money - the Perfect Match!

Podcast Setup with Professional Sound for Little Money - the Perfect Match!  ·  Source: GEARNEWS

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Have you ever considered setting up a small podcast setup? If so, then our new edition of the “Perfect Match” series is just right for you! We’ll show you three products that will help you get started with creating your own podcasts and other voice recordings. Achieve professional-sounding results on a reasonable budget.

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The Most Important Facts at a Glance

  • A practical podcast setup needs a clear voice recording chain with consistent audio quality
  • The RODE NT-USB+ offers clean sound and built-in DSP without requiring an audio interface
  • Sony MDR-7506 headphones allow precise monitoring and quick detection of recording issues
  • The RODE PSA1+ microphone arm improves comfort and ensures stable microphone placement
  • This three-piece setup forms a complete, affordable entry-level podcast solution

What Makes This Budget Podcast Setup a Strong Starting Point?

We present three products that we believe work well together for a podcast setup in a specific order. Each additional product makes the setup more professional. Together, these three products form a small podcast studio.

As always in this series, these suggestions are just ideas, so there are certainly cheaper and more expensive alternatives. However, we can recommend the products presented here without a doubt.

We also make a few assumptions. For example, we assume that you already have a computer for recording and editing. We also assume that you have recording and production software, such as the free Audacity. Here are a few more recommendations.

So, let’s get started!

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The RODE NT-USB+ Microphone is a Good Starting Point for a Podcast Setup

rode nt-usb+
Introducing the Rode NT-USB+ · Source: rode

A podcast setup requires a microphone because the main purpose is to record yourself and others. Because a certain level of quality is important, you shouldn’t try to save money in this area.

There are many microphones ideal for voice recording. In this purchase advisor, we present some of the best. Keep in mind that some of these models are expensive and often require audio interfaces or mixing consoles for connection and operation.

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On the other hand, the RODE NT-USB+ is a USB microphone that requires no additional accessories. It only needs to be connected to a computer. It has a built-in microphone preamplifier and high-quality audio converter! This condenser microphone delivers clear, rich sound. The built-in DSP offers practical extras, such as a high-pass filter, noise gate, and compressor. You can control the volume directly on the microphone, and it has a headphone jack.

With the free RODE Connect software, you can create podcasts or livestreams directly and integrate additional microphones, such as the RODE NT-USB+. The app provides access to and control of DSP effects for sound enhancement.

The RODE NT-USB+ offers great value for money and is an affordable way to start your podcast setup. In principle, you can use it to record your first podcast. You can purchase the RODE NT-USB+ from Thomann*. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the PodMic USB* from RODE is also worth considering. It has an additional XLR connection for upgrading your setup later on.

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Rode NT-USB+
Rode NT-USB+
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(34)

Sony MDR-7506 Headphones

These headphones are highly recommended for recording podcasts (or speeches). They give you more control over your voice because you can hear it directly while recording. It may take some getting used to at first, but it will help you achieve more professional results in the long run.

Sony MDR-7506
Sony MDR-7506 · Source: Sony

Listening directly through speakers can cause negative effects, such as feedback noise. Headphones allow you to quickly identify any interference in the recording. If you don’t already have headphones, we recommend the Sony MDR-7506. It’s a tried-and-true model that’s popular not only in the studio, but everywhere.

This relatively inexpensive model impresses with its robust construction, low weight, and high wearing comfort. You can purchase the Sony MDR-7506 at Thomann* – here you’ll also find many other interesting headphones.

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Sony MDR-7506
Sony MDR-7506
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Take Your Podcast Setup to the Next Level with the RODE PSA1+ Microphone Arm

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Although you’re well equipped for podcasting with a microphone and headphones, your setup could still use an upgrade. A microphone arm offers greater comfort, easier handling, and more professional results in the long run. The RODE NT-USB+ microphone we’re presenting comes with a table stand, which is very practical. When recording a podcast, you should never hold the microphone in your hand. This can introduce unwanted noise into the recording, which you want to avoid.

A table stand helps, but a microphone arm is even better. The RØDE PSA1+ fits the NT-USB+ microphone and all common podcast microphones weighing between 94 g and 1.2 kg. This way, you’ll be ready for future upgrades.

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The microphone arm rotates 360° and a modern spring system ensures precise, stable positioning. Another important feature is its low-noise operation, which is valuable for recording speech.

The PSA1+ can be attached to tabletops with a diameter of up to 70 mm using the screw clamp. The plugin base is suitable for permanent mounting on tabletops up to 55 mm thick. Although you can save a little money with the PSA-1*, we recommend the Plus model. Get the RODE PSA-1+ here at Thomann*.

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Rode PSA1+
Rode PSA1+
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Rode PSA1+ W
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(7)

FAQ

What makes the RODE NT-USB+ suitable for beginners?

The NT-USB+ includes a built-in preamp, converter and DSP effects, allowing clean recordings without an audio interface.

Do I need monitoring headphones for podcasting?

Monitoring headphones help identify noise, interference and level issues during recording, which leads to more consistent results.

Why is a microphone arm a valuable upgrade?

A microphone arm allows precise placement, reduces handling noise and increases comfort during longer recording sessions.

Can this setup work for both podcasts and voice-over work?

Yes, the microphone, monitoring and positioning tools support podcasting, voice-over recording and basic vocal work.

Is additional software required to start recording?

You only need a computer and recording software, such as Audacity, which is free and simple to use.

This podcast setup combines a USB microphone, reliable monitoring headphones and a stable microphone arm for clear voice recordings. The RODE NT-USB+ provides clean audio with built-in DSP, while the Sony MDR-7506 enables precise monitoring. The PSA1+ arm improves microphone positioning and supports consistent recording quality.

Conclusion: This Trio is the Perfect Match

You don’t need much to set up your first podcast. A USB microphone, such as the RODE NT-USB+, is ideal for beginners because it provides excellent performance with a plug-and-play design at an affordable price. It offers everything you need for podcasting and voice recording, and it comes with a pop filter and a table stand. The NT-USB+ is also suitable for recording vocals and instruments.

Headphones are the perfect addition. You can connect them directly to the microphone and use them for monitoring during recording and editing. Headphones like the Sony MDR-7506 allow you to maintain control of the sound, and this model is a reliable tool in many situations. Lastly, the MDR-7506 is lightweight and comfortable.

To take your podcast setup to the next level, an arm microphone such as the RODE PSA-1+ is ideal. This accessory is compatible with various professional microphones, including the NT-USB+. Using a microphone arm allows you to perfectly position the microphone for recording, ensuring optimal results.

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*Note: This article contains affiliate links that help finance our site. Rest assured, the price remains the same for you! If you purchase something through one of these links, we receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!

Podcast Setup with Professional Sound for Little Money - the Perfect Match!

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