This device is usually an audio interface or a mixer that changes the analog signal from your mic and transfers it to a digital one. Since no home computer that I know of has XLR inputs, you’ll need a device to bridge the gap between the microphone and the computer. Higher-end gear, and most audio recording gear in general, will rely on this cable. The three pins are ground, a positive, and a negative terminal to relay electricity from one point to another. It’s been around for ages and will remain on sets for years to come. The three-pin XLR is the essential audio cable. Here’s a breakdown of all the essential gear you need to take the podcast idea you’ve been formulating and help turn it into a reality.īefore we dive into the sweet gear reviews below, let’s take time to do some rundowns on a few basic gear choices and audio elements for those who are brand new to sound recording. The bare essentials for a podcast breaks down to a computer outfitted with some audio editing software, a microphone, something to connect the two devices, and a space to record in. Starting a podcast? Here are some audio basics, studio setups, microphone reviews, and input for different styles of podcasts.