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1

Why We Love It

Users love the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for its high-quality sound and portability. They appreciate the inclusion of recording software and praise the device's super-low latency. The Scarlett mic preamps are often highlighted for their superior performance. Users also appreciate the compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for on-the-go podcasters.

Pros

  • High-quality sound
  • Portable
  • Includes recording software

Cons

  • May require updated drivers
  • No MIDI input

2-in/2-out USB audio interface with two Scarlett mic preamps.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a USB audio interface designed for digital recording. It features two Scarlett mic preamps with high-quality AD converters, a sample rate of up to 192kHz, and super-low latency. The device has two balanced line inputs and a USB-C port for connectivity. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. The package includes Pro Tools, First Focusrite Creative Pack, and Ableton Live Lite.

2

Why We Love It

Reviewers consistently praise the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x's exceptional sound quality and comfort. They appreciate the good noise isolation the headphones offer, making them ideal for use in loud environments. Users also highlight the detachable cable and included carrying pouch, which enhance the headphones' portability. The clarity throughout an extended frequency range is often mentioned as a key feature.

Pros

  • Exceptional sound quality
  • Comfortable
  • Good noise isolation

Cons

  • Cable is not very durable
  • Not wireless

Closed-back circumaural headphones with 45mm large-aperture drivers.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are designed for professional monitoring and mixing. They feature 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, offering exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range. The circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments. The headphones have a detachable cable and include a carrying pouch for portability.

3

Why We Love It

Podcasters appreciate the Zoom H5 for its portability and versatility. The interchangeable capsules are particularly popular, as they allow for a variety of recording situations. Users also like the large backlit LCD display, which is easy to read in various lighting conditions. Some have mentioned that the recorder's build quality is excellent, feeling sturdy and reliable.

Pros

  • Interchangeable input capsules
  • Four-track simultaneous recording
  • Large backlit LCD display

Cons

  • Limited battery life
  • Microphones can be sensitive to wind noise

A portable recorder with interchangeable input capsules and four-track simultaneous recording.

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a compact, portable recorder that is capable of four-track audio recording. It comes with interchangeable input capsules, including X/Y and Mid-Side microphone modules, an optional Shotgun mic, and an optional dual XLR/TRS input module. The recorder features a large backlit LCD display and side-mounted tactile controls. It supports SD and SDHC cards up to 32GB and includes USB audio interface functionality.

4

Why We Love It

Reviewers love the Heil Sound PL-2T for its sturdiness and ease of adjustment. They appreciate its ability to support heavy microphones and highlight its unique system for threading microphone cables. The smooth adjustment system is often praised, with users noting that it stays in place without the need for extra tightening. The C-clamp mount is also frequently mentioned for its robustness.

Pros

  • Sturdy
  • Easy to adjust
  • Supports heavy microphones

Cons

  • C-clamp might not fit all desks
  • Does not include a microphone clip

Overhead broadcast boom with removable top and back plates.

The Heil Sound PL-2T overhead broadcast boom is a professional-grade microphone holder with a sturdy C-clamp mount. It features a unique system that removes top and back plates for easy threading of microphone cables. The boom can handle microphones up to 3.5lbs. It has a smooth yet sturdy adjustment system and is designed to stay in place without the need for extra tightening.

5

Why We Love It

Users love the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones for their sound quality, often noting that they deliver clear, accurate audio with a good balance of bass and treble. The 90-degree swiveling earcups are a popular feature, allowing for easy one-ear monitoring during recording sessions. Many users also appreciate the headphones' build quality, noting that they are sturdy and well-made.

Pros

  • Professional-grade sound quality
  • 90-degree swiveling earcups
  • Excellent sound isolation

Cons

  • Not wireless
  • May be uncomfortable for long periods of use

Professional studio monitor headphones with exceptional sound clarity and deep bass response.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones are designed for critical audio monitoring in a studio environment. They feature 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils to deliver exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range. The headphones offer deep, accurate bass response and have 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring. The circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 3 Products Updated Oct 12, 2025
Product USB Connectivity Audio Quality Portability Noise Isolation Adjustability Weight Capacity
2 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Yes 192kHz sample rate, low latency Compact and lightweight design N/A N/A N/A
3 Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
No Exceptional clarity with 45mm drivers Includes carrying pouch Excellent sound isolation N/A N/A
4 Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom
No N/A Sturdy design for easy mounting N/A Smooth adjustment system Supports up to 3.5lbs
2

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

USB Connectivity
Yes
Audio Quality
192kHz sample rate, low latency
Portability
Compact and lightweight design
Noise Isolation
N/A
Adjustability
N/A
Weight Capacity
N/A
3

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

USB Connectivity
No
Audio Quality
Exceptional clarity with 45mm drivers
Portability
Includes carrying pouch
Noise Isolation
Excellent sound isolation
Adjustability
N/A
Weight Capacity
N/A
4

Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom

USB Connectivity
No
Audio Quality
N/A
Portability
Sturdy design for easy mounting
Noise Isolation
N/A
Adjustability
Smooth adjustment system
Weight Capacity
Supports up to 3.5lbs

Frequently Asked Questions About Professional Podcasting Tools

What makes a professional podcasting tools the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your professional podcasting tools recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of professional podcasting tools?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.