Our recommended gear list (hardware and software)

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack

An affordable option recommended by our host Libsyn.

Samson Q2U Microphone

Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod

A popular USB/XLR option with built-in headphone output, also recommended by Libsyn.

If you only need an XLR connection, check out the Shure MV7X.

Shure MV7 Microphone

Sennheiser PC 5 Chat- Headset / Mic

The PC 5 CHAT is designed talking over the Internet (e.g. podcasting), e-learning, listening to music or casual gaming. The PC 5 CHAT is extremely lightweight for wearing comfort, yet durable enough for active everyday use. The high-quality noise-cancelling microphone assures your chat partners will always hear you loud and clear during the Internet conversations.

If your podcast can afford and needs to ship mics to guests, this is an option recommended by Liz Covart, host of the Ben Franklin’s World podcast.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

High-fidelity, studio quality recording for podcasting, music and more (requires XLR mic).

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen

Audio & Video Podcast Hosting You Can Trust by Libsyn

We use Libsyn to host the Unstarving Musician and we love it.

Libsyn podcast distribution lets you publish your podcast out to the most popular podcast directories — Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more.