Best Podcast Equipment for Co-Hosts and Groups

Thinking about launching a podcast with a co-host, or building a studio for group discussions, interviews, or roundtable chats? This guide will help you build a setup that sounds professional—no matter how many people are at the table. Here’s everything you need for crisp audio, easy setup, and a stress-free recording experience for in-person podcasts with two or more hosts.

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Why Group Podcasts Need Different Gear

Recording with co-hosts or a group isn’t just “more of the same”—it adds new challenges: crosstalk, echo, mic bleed, and balancing multiple voices. Each host needs their own mic and headphones, and you’ll need gear that can handle multiple inputs and keep everyone sounding their best.

Quick Start: The Best Pre-Built Podcast Bundles for Groups

If you want to get started fast, there are some excellent all-in-one podcast kits that provide everything needed for 2–4 hosts. These bundles save time and ensure you’re not missing any crucial components.

Tip: Bundles are often cheaper than buying everything separately and guarantee compatibility. Check for updated options from reputable brands (Focusrite, Rode, Zoom, PreSonus, Tascam, etc.).

Microphones: Every Host Needs Their Own

Key Principle: Never share a microphone! Every host (and guest) should have their own, positioned close to their mouth.

Best Microphones for Co-Hosts & Groups

For two hosts, you can get away with dual USB mics if you’re careful, but for three or more, XLR is a must for reliability and sound.

Audio Interfaces & Mixers: More Mics, More Control

You need an interface or mixer with enough mic inputs for your whole group. Bonus points for onboard recording, sound pads, or easy headphone mixing.

Top Interfaces and Mixers by Group Size

Always buy for at least one more input than you think you need—you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to add a guest.

Headphones: Everyone Needs Their Own

Closed-back headphones are best to prevent audio bleed. Use a headphone splitter or amp so every host can monitor the show.

Recording Software: Multi-Track Matters

Choose software that allows multi-track recording so you can edit each host’s audio separately. This is key for professional-sounding group podcasts.

• Audacity (Free): Multi-track, basic but solid.

• Reaper (~$60): Flexible, full-featured, pro quality.

• Hindenburg Journalist (~$100+): Designed for voice/podcast, easy to use.

• Adobe Audition (Subscription): Industry standard for editing.

• GarageBand (Mac, Free): Good for 2–3 tracks, limited for larger setups.

Essential Accessories & Studio Comfort

Beyond mics and mixers, the right accessories and comfort upgrades will make your sessions smoother and keep your studio organized.

• Mic stands or boom arms: One per host, adjustable for posture and comfort.

• Pop filters/windscreens: Eliminate plosives and sibilance for cleaner audio.

• Labeling supplies: Colored tape, cable tags, or reusable bands for easy setup and teardown.

• Cable management gear: Velcro ties, under-desk trays, or floor covers for a tidy, safe workspace.

• Table pads/mats: Absorb vibrations, prevent desk noise.

• Headphone amps/splitters: So everyone can monitor audio with their own headphones.

• Comfortable chairs: Long sessions are easier with good seating and adjustable height.

• Water bottles/cups: Keep hydrated and protect gear from spills with lidded drinks.

• Portable acoustic panels or blankets: Minimize echo if your space is untreated.

• Notepads/whiteboards: Quick access for show notes, time cues, and reminders.

Pro Setup Tips for Co-Hosts & Groups

• Space mics evenly: Aim for 6–10 inches from each mouth, angled away from each other to reduce bleed.

• Monitor with headphones: Always have everyone listen to themselves.

• Avoid talking over each other: Practice hand signals or use a “round robin” cue.

• Room setup: Use soft furnishings or portable panels to cut echo.

• Record a quick test: Catch issues before the real show.

Gear Comparison Table: 2-, 3–4-, and 5+ Host Setups

FAQ: Group Podcasting Equipment

Can you use USB mics for multi-host podcasts?
Not reliably. Most computers only handle one USB mic at a time. Use XLR mics and an interface/mixer for anything over two hosts.

How do I avoid crosstalk and mic bleed?
Use dynamic mics, keep them close to each mouth, and angle them away from each other. Sound treatment helps, too.

What if we want to add remote guests?
Look for mixers/interfaces with mix-minus or USB connectivity, or use a dedicated remote recording platform (like Riverside or Zoom) and route audio with a mixer.

Is it worth buying a podcast-specific mixer?
If you plan to grow, want onboard recording, or need sound pads and remote guest features, yes. Otherwise, a regular interface works for most.

Wrapping Up

Setting up a podcast for co-hosts or groups isn’t hard—but getting it right saves you hours of editing and gives your show a professional edge from day one. Invest in the right mics, an interface or mixer with enough channels, headphones for all, and some basic accessories.

🎬 Final Thoughts: Build a Studio That Supports the Whole Team

Collaborative podcasts demand clear, consistent sound—and this guide showed you how to choose the right podcast microphone bundle for your setup. But as your team grows, so do your production needs.

Whether you’re working with a co-host or running a multi-mic roundtable, your studio setup needs to handle more voices, more visuals, and more complexity—without slowing you down.

👉 Here’s what to explore as a group:

• 📸 Best Podcast Cameras — Capture every angle and make your hosts look polished on camera
• 🎤 Top Podcast Microphones — Studio-quality mics for each speaker, so everyone sounds their best
• 💡 Podcast Lighting Gear — Even lighting ensures everyone in the group is camera-ready
• 💻 Best Laptops & Desktops for Editing — Multitrack editing? Heavy file exports? These machines can handle it
• 💾 Reliable Podcast Data Storage — Centralize your project files so your team stays in sync
• Live Streaming Equipment — Go live with a setup that supports multiple hosts and guest feeds

A great group podcast is built on smooth collaboration and reliable gear. With these tools in place, you’ll sound united and look professional—no matter how many voices are on the mic.