Joe Budden's Podcast Equipment List

Joe Budden's video podcast, "The Joe Budden Podcast", is known for quite candid discussions.  The show features Budden and his co-hosts engaging in debates and discussions on various topics, including music, culture, and personal experiences. 

The podcast gained popularity for its raw and unfiltered style, giving something of a blend of talk radio and reality TV, where genuine friendships and conflicts unfold. 

Mic

Model: Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone

Price: $449

Pros

• Sound Quality: The RE20 has a warm, smooth sound that is often compared to studio condenser microphones, making it ideal for podcast content. It features a tailored frequency response that enhances vocal clarity, providing a strong presence for both deep and high voices.

• Variable-D Technology: This feature minimizes the proximity effect, allowing users to move around the microphone without significant changes in volume. This is particularly beneficial for podcasting.

• Durability and Reliability: The RE20 is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, it’s a durable option for both studio and field applications. Its longstanding reputation in the industry since its introduction in 1969 speaks to its reliability.

Cons

• Price: The RE20 is considered expensive compared to other dynamic microphones, which may be a barrier for some users, especially those on a budget.

• Weight and Size: Being a larger microphone, it may not be as convenient for all setups, particularly for those who prefer lightweight or compact options.

• Requires Proper Gain: Some users report needing additional gain (e.g., from a cloud lifter) to achieve optimal performance, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of the setup.

The microphone of choice can make or break your audio quality. For a successful podcast, you want to choose the right mic for your studio and voice. Joe Budden uses the Electro-Voice RE20 on The Joe Budden Podcast.

The Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone is a highly regarded choice in the broadcasting and voice-over industry, known for its exceptional sound quality. This makes it a great choice for podcasting as well.

RE20 delivers a warm, smooth audio profile that enhances vocal clarity. One of its standout features we love in podcasting is the Variable-D technology. This minimizes the proximity effect, allowing users to move around the microphone without significant changes in volume, great for those creators who move while they speak. 

However, the RE20 does come with some drawbacks. Its price point is relatively high compared to other dynamic microphones. The microphone's larger size and weight may also be inconvenient for certain setups. Some users report needing additional gain, such as from a cloud lifter, to achieve optimal performance, adding to the overall cost and complexity of the setup. 

Overall, the Electro-Voice RE20 is a high-quality microphone chosen for its sound and versatility, but its price and size may turn off a few podcasters.

Headphones

Model: Pioneer HDJ-X5

Price: Average cost is about $99

Pros:

• Excellent audio clarity with a frequency response of 5 Hz to 30 kHz.

• Comfort: Designed with a flexible headband and swivel mechanism, allowing for comfortable long-term wear.

• Durability: Built to withstand tough conditions, having passed military standard shock tests.

• Replaceable Parts: Detachable cables and ear pads are available for easy maintenance.

Cons: 

• Heat Build-up: Extended use can lead to discomfort due to sweating, particularly in warmer environments

• Weight: These headphones are heavier than some competing models, which may affect comfort during long sessions.

For a high-quality recording, you’ll need high-quality headphones to understand what audio you’re catching. Joe Budden uses the Pioneer HDJ-X5 headphones.

The Pioneer HDJ-X5 headphones are a great choice for podcasters. They are well-regarded for their sound quality and comfort. However, some users have noted concerns regarding the quality and durability of the material, particularly the ear cups, which may wear down over time. Yet, they’ve got a robust design and you can replace each individual part. This offers a level of reliability, ensuring they can withstand long-term use.

Camera

Model: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

Price: $2,495

Pros

• High-Quality Video: Offers 6K resolution (6144 x 3456) with a Super 35 HDR sensor, providing excellent image quality and detail.

• Built-in ND Filters: internal neutral density filters allow for quick adjustments to exposure without needing additional accessories, simplifying the shooting process.

• Dual Native ISO: This enhances low-light performance and flexibility in various lighting conditions, which is useful for indoor podcast setups.

• Versatile Recording Options: Supports direct recording to USB-C disks and various professional codecs, including BRAW and ProRes, making post-production easier.

Cons

• Battery Life: It lasts about 45 minutes per charge, necessitating additional battery solutions or constant power supply, which can be tedious during longer recordings.

• Lack of Autofocus: Autofocus capabilities are limited, which may pose challenges for solo podcasters or those who move around during recordings

• Size and Weight: heavier than other “pocket cameras”.

• Rigging Requirements: To fully utilize the camera's features, you might need extra rigging, which can add to setup time and complexity.

• Editing Workflow: You have to edit raw footage in DaVinci Resolve before using it in other software.

• Price: It’s not the most budget-friendly option out there.

If you opt for video podcasting, you’ll have extra equipment. In particular, you’ll want to take care in choosing the right camera to get high-quality recordings. For The Joe Budden Podcast, Joe uses the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro.

In many ways, this is a great camera option for video podcasts. The Blackmagic offers exceptional video quality and useful features like built-in ND filters and a user-friendly touchscreen. Its Dual ISO feature is also incredible for in-door studios and balancing the lighting. 

However, it has a really limited battery life, lack of reliable autofocus, and isn’t as small as we’d hope. While marketed as a "pocket" camera, its size and weight make it much less portable than expected, complicating setups that require mobility. You’ll need to think ahead with this camera, purchasing backup batteries and mounts to rig it in the right location. For podcasters who prioritize high-quality visuals and have the resources to manage these extra needs, it’s still a great choice.

Mounts & Additional Equipment

Suspension shock mount: Electro-Voice 309A

Price: About $109

Pros

• Tool-Free Installation Process: making it easy to attach and detach microphones quickly.

• Secure Mounting: the shock mount includes a "bayonet" locking mechanism and a wing-type set screw, ensuring that the microphone remains securely in place during use.

• Durable Construction: made from aluminum and steel, with molded neoprene shock cords, the 309A is built to withstand regular use while providing reliable performance.

Cons

• Price Point: Some users find the 309A to be on the pricier side compared to other shock mounts, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

• Weight Stability Issues: Some users found that the mount can lead to instability if not paired with the right boom arm setup, affecting overall performance.

The Electro-Voice 309A Suspension Shock Mount is designed specifically for the RE20, RE27N/D, and RE320 dynamic microphones. Joe Budden has used it to stabilize his own microphone on his video podcast.

The Electro-Voice 309A Suspension Shock Mount is a high-quality accessory for the RE20 microphone, it offers excellent shock isolation and a user-friendly design. The 309A offers near-perfect shock isolation for microphones that are already internally shock-mounted, reducing unwanted vibrations and handling noise.

While it is generally considered good for its performance and durability, you may want to consider its higher price and the need for proper setup to ensure stability. Also while the mount is easy to assemble, some users noted that it lacks detailed instructions, which could be a challenge for first-time users. Even so, overall, it is a solid choice for podcasters seeking to enhance their audio recording quality.

Ready to start your own podcast?

As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into producing The Joe Budden Podcast. If you are hoping to launch a podcast with top-notch quality, there might be a bit of an investment.

If you need help with equipment choice, recording, production, or promotion for your brand podcast, get in touch with Lower Street.