Introduction:

Podcasting has become one of the best ways that you can use to express your opinion, tell stories, or even demonstrate your knowledge to everyone. You can see it as having your own radio show, yet doing it from home with a few pieces of equipment. This audio content is gaining traction in India, thanks in part to apps like Spotify and YouTube.

Starting a podcast does not require an expensive investment in tools and services. Many podcasters started with nothing but a regular microphone and the quiet corner of their bedroom. In this article, we tell you about the best podcast setup for beginners under Rs 10,000. Let’s see how you can record your first episode while keeping it real and within budget.

Why Start Podcasting on a Budget?

Diving into podcasting with a basic setup is a smart choice for newcomers. Prioritise items that plug directly into your laptop or phone, and ignore fancy audio mixers or studios. This will ensure that you barely have a chance to lose money while you try different strategies risk-free. 

That way, if you don’t end up enjoying your job or making money at it, it won’t be a huge loss. Loads of the best podcasters began very modestly, with passion proving to be more valuable than expensive devices. In a market where the professional setups exceed Rs 1 lakh, sticking to the Rs 10,000 limit ensures that you get reliable basics to produce decent audio content.

Essential Equipment for Your Podcast Setup

A basic starter kit would include core items like a microphone for capturing voice, earbuds to detect sound, the computer or smartphone on which the app functions and an adapter. You could also buy a few cheap add-ons for a professional feel, like a pop filter or mic stand. 

For less than Rs 10,000, choose plugging devices that are compatible with laptops or phones rather than complicating the wiring. We will go for USB setups as they connect directly to your device and cost less than an expensive audio interface. This will work perfectly for solo podcasts or basic chats. Sound quality is key, so prioritise items that reduce noise and echo. 

Choosing the Right Microphone

Choose a microphone that’s pluggable and voice-centred. A USB dynamic mic is a good choice to begin with; it connects straight up and does a great job suppressing background noise. Avoid ultra-cheap options that distort. 

Top Recommendations:

1. Maono AU-A04 Kit (Approx. Rs 3,800): This is generally sold as a kit comprising the boom arm stand, pop filter and shock mount. It offers clear sound quality and is simple to install.
2. Fifine K669B or K683A (Approx. Rs 2,500 – Rs 3,500): These are legendary budget mics with a built-in stand. It captures clear speech without picking up room hum and produces a clear, professional sound.
3. Boya BY-M1 (Approx. Rs 800): If you are extremely tight on budget, this clip-on lavier style mic is surprisingly good for its price.

Headphones for Monitoring Audio

Headphones are crucial for real-time audio checks. They catch flaws like static or imbalance and help you create good content. Using good headphones prevents common issues like uneven sound, making your episodes more professional. 

Top Recommendations:

• AKG K72 (Approx. Rs 2,999): These are professional studio headphones. They are lightweight, comfortable for long recording sessions, and perfect for editing. They provide accurate playback, ensuring your voice sounds natural. 
• OneOdio Pro-10 (Approx. Rs 2,500): A great alternative with thick padding and excellent sound isolation, ensuring your microphone doesn’t pick up the sound leaking from your ears.

Audio Interface 

This device links advanced mics to your computer, but for tight budgets, it’s not always necessary. Professionals use it to convert the signal from an XLR microphone into their computer. But as a newbie, you can swap it with USB mics. If flexibility is key,  a basic single channel with i/o for a mic and headphones sounds like the best bet. It’s easy to use with fast setup guides. They enhance clarity, but as a beginner, you can ignore them and avoid the trouble of setting them up.

Accessories to Enhance Your Setup

Small extras and add-ons elevate your recordings affordably. These extra features transform amateur audio into something polished and more studio-like. They’re easy to assemble and ideal for home creators. Instead of a desk stand, a boom arm lets you bring the mic close to your mouth, reducing room echo and shakes. Pop Filter, a round mesh screen in front of the mic that stops the “P” and “B” sounds that can cause audio clipping.

Free Software for Recording and Editing

Leverage no-cost programs to handle everything. A versatile editor like a free audio workstation lets you record, trim, and mix tracks effortlessly. It supports adding music or effects, exporting ready files. You don’t need to pay for a subscription to edit your podcast.

• Audacity (PC/Mac): It is open source and simple free editing tool. It’s powerful, easy to learn, and you can learn how to use it with YouTube tutorials. 
• GarageBand (Mac/iOS): If you have an iPhone or Mac, this is already built in and is free for mixing audio tracks. It is incredibly user-friendly.
• Spotify for Podcasters: This is an all-in-one app for recording, adding background music, and distributing your podcast to Spotify and Apple Podcasts for free.

Who Is This Setup Best For?

This budget setup for under Rs 10,000 is perfect for those looking to get into podcasting on a casual basis. For solo podcasters, students, freelancers or anyone aiming to start their own podcast. All you require is a USB Mic kit and a quiet environment. If you conduct guest interviews over Zoom, this is the type of setup that will make you sound like a pro. 

You can also record a video with a webcam. If you are looking for large productions with multiple channels, then you might need more professional tools and accounts. Track analytics to see what works. As revenue comes in, invest in better gear.

Budget Breakdown: A Complete Setup Under Rs 10,000

Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

Newbies often overlook preparation. Avoid noisy fans or traffic, record in a quiet place. Disturbance from the surroundings ruins.  Even an expensive microphone will sound bad in a room with empty walls and echoes. Beginners often sit too far away from the mic. Stay about 4 to 6 inches from the mic for that radio voice. Don’t overcomplicate edits; make your episode sound natural. 

Don’t edit every pause or “um” sound; it makes you sound like a real human, instead of a robot. This natural flow matters to listeners. Monitor levels to prevent distortion. Always record a 30-second “test” and listen back before recording the full episode. Save work frequently to avoid losses due to a tech glitch. Resist buying extra complex devices; master basics first. Test the equipment fully before committing. Share episodes widely as isolation limits growth.

Conclusion:

Building a podcast setup in India for under Rs 10,000 is a very effective way to start. This makes podcasting less financially risky, approachable and enjoyable for beginners. Emphasise clear voice tools, free software, and smart add-ons for quality results. Prioritise your unique stories over perfection or similar content. The article mentioned the best podcast setup under 10,000 for beginners. You can always upgrade as your listener base expands.

FAQs:

What is the minimum equipment needed to start a podcast under ₹10,000?

You need a basic USB microphone, headphones, a simple mic stand, and free recording software to start.

Is a USB microphone good enough for beginners?

Yes, USB microphones are easy to use, affordable, and offer good sound quality for beginners.

Do I need an audio interface for a low-budget podcast setup?

No, an audio interface is not required if you are using a USB microphone.

Which headphones are best for podcasting on a budget?

Any closed-back headphones with clear sound and comfort are good for beginners.

Can I record a podcast using my laptop or mobile phone?

Yes, you can record on a laptop or smartphone using free apps and basic equipment.

Is soundproofing necessary for beginners?

No, basic sound control, like recording in a quiet room, is enough when starting out.

What free software can I use to record my podcast?

You can use free tools like Audacity, GarageBand, or Anchor to record and edit podcasts.

Can I get good audio quality under ₹10,000?

Yes, with the right microphone and a quiet space, you can get clear and professional-sounding audio.

Is a mic stand or boom arm important?

It helps reduce noise and keeps the microphone stable, but a simple table stand also works.

Can I upgrade my podcast setup later?

Yes, you can start small and upgrade your microphone or accessories as your podcast grows.