🎙️Under $350
Podcast Starter Setup
This setup gives you broadcast-quality audio without overbuying. The dynamic microphone handles untreated rooms gracefully, the interface adds clean gain without noise, and the closed-back headphones let you monitor in real time. Swap the boom arm for a desk stand if space is tight.
The Gear
Microphone
Shure SM58Dynamic mic that rejects background noise — perfect for untreated rooms. No phantom power needed.
Audio Interface
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)One XLR input, clean preamp, USB-C. The world's best-selling interface for a reason.
Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xClosed-back monitoring headphones — flat response, excellent isolation, industry standard.
Boom ArmOptional
Rode PSA1Professional boom arm that holds position firmly and keeps the mic off the vibrating desk.
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