Tim Ferris' Podcast Equipment List

We’re guessing you’ve already heard about The Tim Ferriss Show, a favorite of ours here at Lower Street. Launched initially as a side project in 2014, the podcast features long-form interviews with a diverse range of guests, including authors, entrepreneurs, athletes, and scientists, where Ferriss explores their routines, habits, and philosophies for success. But to pull it all off, what equipment does Tim Ferris use.

Mic

Model: SM7B

Price: Averages at about $399.

Pros: 

• Wide Dynamic Range: The SM7B offers a wide dynamic range, providing clarity and versatility in vocal and instrumental recordings.

• Durability: This mic is known for its rugged construction and legendary reliability, making it a long-lasting investment.

• Presence Boost: The SM7B features a presence boost that compensates for lack of brightness, enhancing vocal quality.

• Internal Shock Mount: it’s equipped with an internal shock mount that absorbs vibrations, eliminating the need for bulky external mounts.

• Off-Axis Rejection: Provides good rejection of off-axis sound, ensuring focused audio capture. (It doesn’t pick up background or “side” noise as much, just what’s in front.)

• Built-in Pop Filter: Includes a highly effective pop filter, reducing plosive sounds and enhancing vocal clarity.

Cons: 

• Needs to be Close: This mic is meant to be used just a few inches from your face, if you are moving a lot it won’t pick up the audio. This can be a con if you are prone to movement. 

• Transient Response: While decent for a dynamic microphone, it may not capture as much detail in the audio as condenser microphones, though for voice-only and podcasting, this should be fine.

• Low Output Level: True only in slightly older versions of this mic, there may be the need for a pre-amp. The newest version comes with one built in.

Model: Shure SM58-LC

Price: $100

Pros:

• Vocal Performance: The SM58 is specifically designed for vocals, featuring a tailored frequency response that enhances clarity and presence, making it ideal for live performances.

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern: This design effectively isolates the sound source from background noise, reducing feedback and allowing for clearer vocal capture in noisy environments.

• Affordability: Priced around $100, it offers excellent value for its performance quality, making it accessible for both amateur and professional users.

Cons:

• Proximity Effect: When used too close to the sound source, the SM58 can produce an exaggerated bass response, leading to a "boomy" sound if not positioned correctly.

• Limited Versatility: While excellent for vocals, it may not perform as well with instruments compared to other microphones like the SM57, which is better suited for capturing instruments.

• Sound Character: Some users find the sound of the SM58 to be warmer but potentially dull compared to other microphones, which might not suit all vocalists or styles.

Tim Ferriss uses two microphones primarily for his podcasting, the SM7B, and the Shure SM58-LC. Both are great professional microphones and great for podcasting. Personally, we always recommend the SM7B for a higher-end microphone.

Recording Interface

Model: Zoom H6

Price: around $299

Pros:

• Flexible Recording Options: The H6 can record up to six channels simultaneously, accommodating various microphone types and configurations, making it versatile for different recording scenarios.

• Interchangeable Input Capsules: Users can easily swap out microphone capsules (e.g., X/Y, shotgun) to suit their recording needs, enhancing flexibility.

• DAW Compatibility: Functions as a 6-in, 2-out audio interface for digital audio workstations (DAWs), allowing for direct recording into software.

• Phantom Power Availability: Provides phantom power for all four XLR/TRS combo inputs, essential for using condenser microphones.

Cons:

• Menu Navigation Issues: Important settings are often buried in menus, which can slow down the workflow during critical recording moments.

• Fragile Components: Some users find the mid-side (M/S) capsule and other parts to be somewhat delicate, raising concerns about durability.

• Limited High-Impedance Input: Lacks a high-impedance setting for electric guitars and basses, which may limit its utility for some musicians.

For his podcast recording, Tim Ferriss uses the Zoom H6, This audio recorder provides multiple recording options and robust connectivity features. Its ability to function as both a standalone recorder and a digital audio interface makes it appealing to musicians, filmmakers, and podcasters alike. However, you should consider its menu navigation challenges and some design quirks that may affect usability in certain situations. 

Camera

Model: Logitech Brio (for remote interviews)

Price: $139

Pros

• High Resolution: The Logitech Brio supports 4K Ultra HD video at 30 frames per second, providing exceptional clarity and detail for video calls and streaming.

• Advanced Features: The webcam includes autofocus, auto light correction, high dynamic range (HDR), and three adjustable fields of view (65°, 78°, and 90°), enhancing versatility in various lighting conditions and framing options.

Cons

• High Price Point: At around $199, the Logitech Brio is one of the more expensive webcams on the market, which may not be justifiable for casual users.

• Requires Good Lighting for Best Performance: Like many high-quality webcams, the Brio performs best in well-lit environments; poor lighting can lead to grainy images despite its advanced features.

• Software Dependency: Some features require the use of Logitech's software, which could be seen as an inconvenience for users who prefer plug-and-play devices

Model:  Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K (for in-person)

Price: $1,995

Pros

• Super 35 Sensor: The BMPCC 6K features a Super 35 image sensor, which provides a larger surface area for capturing more light and detail compared to smaller sensors, enhancing image quality significantly.

• EF Lens Mount: It has an Electro-Focus (EF) mount, allowing compatibility with a wide range of Canon lenses, which is beneficial for filmmakers looking to utilize existing lens collections.

• Multiple Recording Formats: The camera offers various recording options, including Blackmagic RAW and ProRes, catering to different production needs and preferences.

• Dynamic Range: With a dynamic range of 13 stops, the BMPCC 6K excels in capturing details in both highlights and shadows, making it suitable for high-contrast scenes.

Cons

• Battery Life: The BMPCC 6K has a relatively short battery life, estimated at around 45 minutes when recording in 6K RAW. 

• Limited Autofocus: The camera's autofocus capabilities are basic compared to other modern cameras, which may not be ideal for run-and-gun shooting situations where quick focus adjustments are necessary.

• No In-body Stabilization (IBIS): Lacking built-in stabilization means that users may need to invest in gimbals or other stabilization equipment, particularly when shooting handheld.

For video podcasting, Tim Ferriss has two go-to cameras. He uses the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K when he records on his own or live-in-person interviews. For remote recording, he has opted for the Logitech Brio camera. Both of these are great options for video podcasting. The Logitech Brio is an affordable option that can be used by solo podcasters or for remote recordings. The Blackmagic camera is costly, but it is a high-quality option for in-person interviews.

Launch a podcast like Tim Ferriss

It all starts with a great idea and the right equipment. If you’d like to launch a great podcast there may be a bit of an investment. But every show will have the need for different equipment.  

Lower Street can help you find the right tools. We’ll work with you from concept to promotion, making your show a success. To start, we’ll look at your show format and recommend the best equipment for you. Get in touch to learn more.