Do I need an audio interface for a podcast?

No, but it improves audio quality and capabilities. A USB microphone records perfectly acceptable podcast audio — many top-ranked podcasts use USB mics. An audio interface provides: cleaner preamps (lower noise floor), processing capabilities (compression, EQ, noise gate), multiple microphone inputs for co-hosts and guests, and better headphone monitoring. If your USB mic audio sounds good and you record solo, an interface is a nice-to-have. If you record with guests in-person or want broadcast-quality processing, an interface becomes essential.

What is mix-minus and why does it matter for podcasts?

Mix-minus is a routing configuration that sends your remote guest everything except their own voice — preventing echo. Without mix-minus, your remote guest hears their own voice delayed through your system, creating a distracting echo that makes conversation impossible. Podcast-specific interfaces (Vocaster, Rodecaster) handle mix-minus automatically. General interfaces require manual routing setup. If you record any remote guests via phone or computer, mix-minus capability is essential. It is the number one technical challenge new podcasters face when adding remote guests.

Best Podcast Audio Interfaces 2026