A Portable Podcast Setup: One for the Road
Looking for a portable podcast setup? I was recently helping a new client get started, and I may have just the thing. She was looking for a setup that she could take on the road. Specifically, she wants to be able to conduct interviews outdoors - in beautiful settings, like forests, parks, and overlooking the ocean. That makes things a little tricky. Everything needs to be portable and sturdy. The microphones also need to be designed to handle some background noise. Oh, and one more thing. This will be an audio podcast but she wants to record video for promotional clips.
Below is what I came up with. Are you looking for something specific? I offer a service for just that.
This setup is designed specifically for outdoor recording. Using a camera that records high-quality audio reduces the amount of equipment needed. That means less to carry and less to go wrong. I selected mics that will capture you and your guests well, even in noisy surroundings. The camera has a built-in microphone that can be used to capture the natural ambiance wherever you are. Since all microphones record to their own track, you can mix the sound later in your digital audio workstation (DAW) to get a perfect balance. Or, of course, you can just send the tracks to your editor.
The Center of the Portable Podcast Setup: The Recorder
If you recording on the go, you can certainly take a computer, but a laptop is not the greatest companion for the outdoors. There are some great audio-only recorders out there, but this one will capture the video my client needs.
Zoom Q8n-4k Handy Video Recorder
Zoom Q8n-4k Handy Video Recorder $399
The Zoom Q8n-4K Handy Video Recorder is ideal for creators seeking high-quality 4K video with excellent audio, especially in outdoor settings. With two XLR inputs for professional-grade sound and a wide-angle lens adjustable to various fields of view, it’s a versatile, compact solution for capturing polished content in any environment.
Portable Podcast Mics
Shure SM58 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone $99 each x 2
Shure SM58 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone
The Shure SM58 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone is a versatile and trusted choice for capturing professional audio, making it ideal for outdoor podcasts. Renowned for its durability and superior sound quality, the SM58’s cardioid pickup pattern isolates the speaker’s voice, effectively minimizing background noise and ambient sounds, even in outdoor environments. Whether handheld or mounted on a stand, it delivers reliable, clear audio, thanks to its rugged build and integrated shock mount, which reduces handling noise. With its warm, natural sound and adaptability, the Shure SM58 is a go-to microphone for any podcast setup involving a host and guest.
Accessories for the Road
Zoom ZHA-4 Handy 4-Channel, Battery-Powered Headphone Amplifier
Zoom ZHA-4 Handy 4-Channel, Battery-Powered Headphone Amplifier $53
The Zoom Q8n-4k only has one headphone jack. This will allow the host and guest to have independent control over the volume of the headphones.
Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR to XLR Cables 25 feet $35
These will connect the microphones to the camera. 25 feet should be long enough for most setups.
Pyle Heavy Duty Microphone Stand $38 each x 2
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
The host and guest could hold their microphones, and there may be some locations where that is the only option. However, when possible, I recommend using stands. This will reduce the handling noise that comes from holding microphones. It will also ensure that people stay a consistent distance from the microphones, which will help create a better-sounding podcast.
Sony MDR-7506 Headphones $98 x 2
A classic choice in the audio industry, these headphones are well-regarded for their accurate sound reproduction and comfortable, lightweight build. They provide a secure fit and excellent sound isolation, which is beneficial for monitoring in outdoor settings. The MDR-7506 is also foldable, making them easy to pack and transport.
Are you using any of this equipment? Have you put together a portable podcast setup of your own? Let me know in the comments below.