In the past, we have carried out discussions over some real valuable points for those authors who are planning to start their own podcasts and with this write-up too, we are going to discuss a step further in the same direction. Now, we know that in the modern day competitive market, authors do need to come out with their podcasts and we have considered the points of concerns too, which the authors need to keep in mind while carrying out their podcasts. So now, taking a step further in the same direction brings us to those essential tools ‘podcast for authors’, which the authors would require while carrying out their podcasts!
Today, if we are talking about podcast programs for the authors then that is because of the new technologies that have evolved over the years and yes we need to keep in pace with the new technologies for making a mark for ourselves. Therefore, coming to the technical side of carrying out podcasts, let us get started with the list of all those equipment that will come in use for carrying out these podcasts. Although podcasting might seem like it would require a lot of technical expertise, nevertheless putting out a high-quality effort these days is actually quite simple and it does not require you to spend a lot of money.
Also Read: Essential Tips For Authors Starting Their Podcasts
Podcast for Authors
Well, let us focus over all those essential tools/equipment that you will need in order to carry out your author podcast programs –
1) A Reliable Computer: You do not need a machine with lots of bells and whistles to get the job done, but you should use something that has plenty of RAM and adequate storage space for audio files unless you are hooking up an external drive to store your podcasts!
Another factor to consider is the loudness of your machine. Recording audio can use a lot of computing power, which can cause your machine to heat up and require the fan to spin more quickly. It might not bother you, but if you want the best possible audio, it is good to use a machine that runs on the quiet side. In addition, if you plan to be portable with your podcast, it might be a good idea to invest in a durable laptop.
2) Recording Software: If you use an Apple Mac computer, you have GarageBand software, which is awesome for podcasts, built right in. It is easy to use, and there are numerous tutorials available to help you get started. If you are using a PC or another type of device, you also have a number of free and low cost options for recording software. Audacity is a popular choice, and everyone from podcasting newbies to award winning recording engineers uses it. Software allows you to record and store audio files, but it also lets you edit those files so your podcast sounds as professional as possible!
Do not get concerned about learning every single detail of the software; to get started with podcasting, you need only learn the basics. However, learning about your software’s potential is highly recommended if you want to take your podcasts to the next level.
Also Read: Why Should Authors Start Their Own Podcasts?
3) A Decent Microphone: A sure way to turn off listeners is to use a subpar microphone, so do not even think of recording your voice directly into your laptop’s built-in mic. Thankfully, a decent, rich-sounding microphone can be purchased at a quite reasonable price these days!
It is highly recommend that you start out using a basic USB-powered microphone such as Audio Technica’s ATR2100 or the Blue Microphones Yeti, both of them can easily be purchased at a real economical price. These mics plug directly into your machine’s USB port, giving you easy, plug-and-play access.
4) A Nice Set of Headphones: Whether you are recording, interviewing or editing, you need to be able to hear your audio clearly. You can certainly work with a basic pair of earbuds, but we recommend that you invest in some decent headphones. Again, you do not have to spend a lot of money. Sony’s MDR7506 headphones are recording industry classics, and they cost real less than most other headphones. They sound great, provide wonderful detail and they are comfortable to wear!
However, you may want to use headphones that are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and that interface more fully with your machine and software. This comes in especially handy if you plan on conducting interviews or getting interviewed yourself via Skype. The Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless headphones are a good choice, here, but we recommend you do some research to find the best fit for you and your specific podcasting needs.
Well, these items are just the basics, but they are everything you need to get started with a high quality and a professional sounding podcast.
Written By NEEL PREET – Author of the Books, Voice From The East (2016); Journey With Time Place And Circumstances (2018) & Indian Defence Files (2021).
