I've got plans to create something new and decided to do it right with some proper equipment. After using Twitter to get quick feedback on a podcast mic, I got several different suggestions.

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My friend, Adam, who just so happens to be the host of The Gently Mad, told me I should definitely go with the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB/XLR for a solid starter mic under $100. I was really intrigued initially by the Blue Yeti, but after more research I concluded that I wanted a flexible mic stand that wasn't standing right in front of me. This will give me more room while I create video screencasts and such. The Blue Yeti looks cool, but also pretty big and clunky sitting right there on the middle of your desk.

Here's a full list of the audio equipment I bought from Amazon:

audiotechnica mic

Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB/XLR Microphone I did a fair amount of research, listened to some tests and decided that with the price plus the recommendation, that this would be a good way to start. I almost decided to go more expensive with the Audio-Technica AT2020, but figured I could upgrade later if this turns out to be something I do consistently.

rode boom arm

RODE PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom This was also recommended by Adam and I've seen a few other podcasters using a similar setup. I don't like things cluttering up my desk, so I was sold on this immediately.

mic pop filter

Nady MPF-6 6-Inch Clamp on Microphone Pop Filter I'm not sure if I'll actually need this or not, but the price isn't bad so I figured I'd give it a try and pile it into the cart while all of this stuff is being shipped anyways.

mic windscreen

On Stage Foam Ball-Type Mic Windscreen This is the smaller alternative to the above pop filter. It was only $3 so I went ahead and picked it up too.

mic shock mount

Audio-Technica AT-8415 Low-Profile Universal Shock Mount with Flexible Band After researching shock mounts, I came across a few different places where the author mentioned moving the mic and repositioning it during recordings without hearing a noticeable sound. I like the idea that I can move the mic around during a recording (within reason) and not get mic bump noise.

Here are all of the items in a public Amazon Wish List if you fancy these items as well.

All links are Amazon affiliate links.