Recording & Editing Software (Audio & Video)
I want to start a podcast, but I don’t know anything about how to go about it. What do I need to get started?
If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, or even if you’re just looking to edit home video, these are my recommendations for equipment and software.
Audio Shows
Microphone
–Plantronics DSP-400 Digitally-Enhanced USB Foldable Stereo Headset
–If you’re willing to spend a little bit more, the Snowball USB Mic
–If you plan to have more than one person speaking you’ll need a USB or Firewire interface. M-Audio products are excellent. We use an Alesis MultiMix
Recording Software for PC Users:
–Castblaster costs $50 and it’s designed to be simple. You can use it to record, edit, tag and if you want, offers easy uploading to PodShow.com for freehosting.
–Audacity is a simple, free application for recording and editing audio.
Recording Software for Mac Users:
–GarageBand is included as a part of iLife and it comes installed on all recent Macs. Purchased separately, it is $79. The newest version of GarageBand has built-in podcasting features, and is worth the upgrade price.
–Audio Hijack Pro is a recording software that costs $32, with a fully functional free demo. Audio Hijack Pro allows you to enhance your audio as well.
Hosting:
–PodShow Network offers free hosting for your files. PodShow also serves as a podcast directory and a place to connect with other listeners/viewers.
–Dreamhost offers hosting for $7.95/month and up.
Video Shows
Microphone
You can use the built in mic on whatever camera you use, but if you use an external mic, you’ll get better quality.
–We use a Sennheiser Wireless Omni Lavaliere Mic
Recording and Editing Software for PC Users:
–VlogIt costs $29. You can record, add live titling and graphics, chromakey (using a green screen), and use the teleprompter.
–Audacity is a free recording and editing software.
–Pinnacle Studio, another recording and editing software costs $29.99.
Recording and Editing Software for Mac Users:
–Videocue Pro costs $89. You can record, add live titling and graphics, chromakey (using a green screen), and use the teleprompter. This is the software Neal and I started out using to record GeekBrief.TV.
–iMovie is included as a part of iLife and it comes installed on all recent Macs. Purchased separately, it is $79. You can record, edit, add special effects, titling and transitions.
–Quicktime Pro allows you to do very simple editing, and costs $29.99.
Hosting:
–PodShow Network offers free hosting for your files. PodShow also serves as a podcast directory and a place to connect with other listeners/viewers.
–Dreamhost offers hosting for $7.95/month and up.
Once you have your show completed, make sure you’re listed in the major directories.
iTunes
PodShow
Podcast Alley
Podcast Pickle
These are some podcasting related forums:
iTunes
Podcast Alley
Podcast Pickle
GBTVTalk.com
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Thanks so much for answering my question. I really do appreciate what you guys do at geekbrief and all the other stuff! Oh, and you don’t talk to fast, just perfect. Actually, at that speed, you’d fit in with the rest of is space nerds at KSC! Thanks!
Oh, if you can answer one more follow on, what camera’s would you reccomend for recording a video pod cast?
Thanks for mentioning CastBlaster Cali. I realize it’s not released yet (soon though!), but for video you could also mention VidBlaster (www.vidblaster.com).
I am a fan of RecordForAll for audio recording http://www.recordforall.com . They have gotten some great reviews as well.
I like the Rode Podcaster - it’s a great USB mic
Very good list of recommended equipment. I was pleased to find out I already had all the software I needed. :)