Launching a Podcast Like Ant & Dec: The Best Entry-Level Headsets and Mic Setups for TV Hosts Going Online

Hook: Want TV-grade audio without a TV budget?

Transitioning from television to a podcast—like Ant & Dec did with their new show—looks easy on camera, but audio is where your credibility lives. If you’re a TV host moving online, the last thing you want is muffled vocals, noisy rooms, or confusing gear. You need reliable, affordable solutions that deliver clear voice capture, low-latency monitoring, and simple workflows for live and recorded formats.

Top takeaway (TL;DR)

If you want a quick recommendation: for most TV hosts launching a podcast in 2026, a USB mic + monitoring headphones bundle (Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB or Samson Q2U paired with Sony MDR-7506 or ATH-M50x) gives the best value and upgrade path. For on-the-go or live interaction-heavy shows, a quality USB headset (Logitech H390 or SteelSeries Arctis 1 USB) is the fastest, lowest-friction option. Spend a bit more for a Focusrite Scarlett + Rode PodMic if you want studio warmth and multi-mic setups.

Why Ant & Dec’s move matters for hosts like you

In January 2026 the BBC reported that Ant & Dec launched a podcast, part of their new Belta Box digital channel. Their stated goal was simple: "we just want you guys to hang out." That direct, conversational format is ideal for podcasting, but it also exposes every audio flaw. As celebrities move from curated TV production to the rawness of web audio, they — and you — face three common pain points:

• Poor microphone capture that flattens vocal character
• Monitoring and latency issues that wreck live interaction
• Unclear gear choices and price/value tradeoffs

"We asked our audience if we did a podcast what they would like it be about, and they said 'we just want you guys to hang out.'" — Declan Donnelly, per BBC (Jan 2026)

That quote is a great reminder: the format is simple, but the audio must be excellent. Fans expect TV-level clarity. You can deliver that without a broadcast truck and a six-figure budget — but you need the right entry-level headset and mic setup.

2026 audio trends every TV host should know

• AI-driven cleanup is standard: Tools like Descript Studio Sound, Krisp, and built-in DAW plugins now offer near-studio noise reduction in real time. Late-2025 updates made algorithms faster and less artifact-prone; pairing clean capture with AI is discussed in field tests of low-latency field audio kits.
• Local-record + cloud backup: Services such as Riverside.fm and Zencastr led a 2024–25 shift: local lossless recording plus cloud upload for editing. In 2026 most pro shows use this model to avoid bandwidth and latency pitfalls; see strategy notes in live stream strategy guides.
• Value bundles dominate early adoption: Manufacturers increasingly ship mic+headphone or mic+interface bundles aimed at creators — watch for seasonal deals.
• Platform-first distribution: Celeb-hosted shows often launch across YouTube, TikTok and podcast hosts simultaneously; your setup must support both clean audio for streaming and mix-minus for remote guests.

Which path should a TV host take? Three practical workflows

Your choice depends on mobility, interaction, and post-production expectations.

1) Fastest & simplest: USB headset (all-in-one)

Best if you do lots of live chat, multi-platform streams, or you want plug-and-play reliability with minimal setup.

• Pros: Simple, built-in mic monitoring, USB hardware, no interface needed.
• Cons: Mic capsule quality limited vs desktop mics; less tonal control.
• When to pick: Live Q&A, in-venue streaming, or when you need mobility during the show.

2) Best value: USB mic + monitoring headphones (recommended)

This is the sweet spot for TV hosts who want noticeably better voice quality and control but don’t want to manage an audio interface ecosystem yet.

• Pros: Superior sound, easy to record locally, upgrade path (XLR later), many quality USB mics under $150.
• Cons: Slightly more setup; you’ll need headphones for monitoring and basic acoustics treatment for the room.
• When to pick: Pre-recorded shows, interviews, or brands building a polished presence.

3) Prosumer path: XLR mic + interface + monitoring cans

For hosts planning to scale, add co-hosts, or monetize heavily. More upfront cost but pro-level flexibility.

• Pros: Best audio fidelity, multi-mic control, zero-latency monitoring on many interfaces.
• Cons: More gear, learning curve, higher cost.
• When to pick: Multi-mic studio, live broadcasts with in-studio guests, or intended long-term investment.

Top entry-level bundles for 2026 — picks by use case

Below are tested, real-world bundles selected for TV hosts moving online. I considered price, latency, ease of use, and the upgrade path. Price ranges are approximate and reflect typical 2026 retail pricing (watch seasonal sales).

Best all-in-one USB headset — Fast setup and mobility

Recommended pick: Logitech H390 USB Headset

• Why: Reliable USB connection, noise-cancelling mic, inline controls, very affordable.
• Best for: Hosts who interact live and need reliable monitoring without extra gear.
• Hands-on note: In tests the H390 handled room noise well when combined with software AI cleanup.
• Expected cost: $35–$60.

Best USB headset for streamer-feel — Comfort + game-friendly features

Recommended pick: SteelSeries Arctis 1 USB

• Why: Lightweight, detachable clear mic, USB-C or USB-A variants, better build than generic headsets.
• Best for: Longer sessions and hosts who want a more premium feel without a huge price jump.
• Expected cost: $60–$90.

Best entry-level mic + headphones bundle — Best value for polished audio

Recommended pick: Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB + Sony MDR-7506

• Why: ATR2100x gives USB & XLR flexibility, solid dynamic capture for spoken voice; Sony MDR-7506 are studio standard closed-back monitors for accurate monitoring.
• Best for: Hosts who want clear, broadcast-friendly vocals and a future upgrade path to XLR mixers.
• Hands-on note: The ATR2100x’s USB mode is plug-and-play; pair with pop filter and boom arm for best results. See field reviews of compact on-the-go recording kits for mobile setups.
• Expected cost: $120–$180 total.

Budget USB mic + headphones — Starter polish under $150

Recommended pick: Samson Q2U + Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

• Why: Q2U offers USB & XLR and is built for voice; the ATH-M40x provides balanced monitoring with less bass bloom than M50x.
• Best for: Hosts on a tight budget who still want control over audio quality.
• Expected cost: $100–$150.

Prosumer starter studio (XLR) — For long-term growth

Recommended pick: Rode PodMic + Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) + Sony MDR-7506

• Why: PodMic is tuned for voice, Scarlett provides clean preamps and direct monitoring, Sony cans give reliable reference monitoring.
• Best for: Hosts who plan to multi-track, edit, and produce at a higher level.
• Hands-on note: You’ll need a boom arm and pop filter; the advantage is significantly warmer, broadcast-quality voice. If you’re thinking about capture chains for short-form clips and ads, check compact capture chain reviews like the Photon X Ultra capture chain review.
• Expected cost: $300–$450 depending on bundle discounts.

Compact mobile bundle — For on-location recording

Recommended pick: Zoom PodTrak P4 + Rode Wireless Go II + closed-back headphones

• Why: PodTrak is a podcast-focused portable mixer/recorder with onboard mix-minus; Rode Wireless Go II adds mobility for guest interviews. See hands-on field reviews of compact recording kits for similar portable configurations.
• Best for: TV hosts recording segments on set, at events, or in remote locations.
• Expected cost: $400–$700 depending on wireless pack size.

Practical setup checklist for TV hosts (before your first episode)

1. Choose your workflow: USB headset for speed, USB mic + cans for value, XLR for pro control.
2. Position your mic: 6–12 inches from the mouth, slightly off-axis to reduce plosives. Use a pop filter and boom arm where possible.
3. Monitoring: Always use closed-back headphones for live monitoring to prevent bleed.
4. Direct monitoring: If using an interface, enable zero-latency direct monitoring to avoid echo in live streams; portable mixers and interfaces are tested in low-latency field audio kit roundups.
5. Room treatment: Use a rug, bookshelf, or budget acoustic panels behind the host and reflective surfaces softened — pair ergonomic and space recommendations from ergonomics & productivity kits with acoustic tips.
6. Software: Record locally (Riverside, Zencastr) and use AI cleanup (Descript, Krisp) for the final pass; tie local recording with cloud upload strategies from live stream strategy resources.
7. Test workflow: Record a full episode dry run with co-hosts and a remote guest to verify levels and mix-minus routing; guides on edge-assisted live collaboration and field kits can help for multi-operator setups.

Software and routing: keeping remote guests and live streams glitch-free

Two problems kill a live celebrity podcast more quickly than anything: latency and double-voice echo. Use these techniques:

• Mix-minus routing: Prevent a remote guest from hearing themselves delayed back. Many podcast mixers (Zoom PodTrak, RODECaster) and interfaces can configure mix-minus. For software-only setups, OBS + VoiceMeeter or Loopback (Mac) can create virtual mixes. If you’re running multi-site productions or want field-friendly routing, see practices in edge-assisted live collaboration.
• Local recording: Have each participant record a local track and upload it (Riverside, SquadCast, or Zoom with local recording) to protect audio quality if a network glitch occurs.
• AI noise suppression: Use RTX Voice or Krisp for live streams and Descript Studio Sound during post to clean residual artifacts. In 2026 AI models improved clarity with minimal phase artifacts.

Seasonal buying strategy — when to buy and where to save

For hosts on a budget, timing is everything. Here’s where to save:

• Major sale events: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day still offer the biggest discounts on audio gear. In 2025 manufacturers pushed mid-year bundles to capture creator demand — watch for those carry-over deals in early 2026 and bundle promotions described alongside weekend pop-up bundle tactics.
• Bundle discounts: Many vendors sell mic + interface + pop filter bundles during seasonal promotions. These often beat buying parts separately.
• Trade-in and refurbished: Certified refurbished units from manufacturers (Focusrite, Rode) give near-new performance with a warranty at 20–40% off; for devices and mobiles consider the refurbished device market like the iPhone 14 Pro refurbishment review.
• Shop checklist: Confirm return policies and warranty, especially for electronics with firmware (USB headsets, wireless mics).

Quick ROI calculator for hosts

If you’re a TV host with sponsors or network backing, match spend to goals:

• $50–$150: Fast launch, acceptable quality for audience-building. Expect USB headset or entry USB mic.
• $150–$350: Solid value: USB mic + monitoring headphones, room treatment, and basic boom arm.
• $350–$700: Prosumer studio: XLR mic, interface, quality headphones, portable recorder — ready for multi-mic shows and sponsorship-ready audio. See recommendations in compact capture chain and field kit reviews like the Photon X Ultra and compact recording kit roundups.

Common mistakes TV hosts make — and how to avoid them

• Using on-camera mics for podcast audio: Lav mics and shotgun mics used for TV often lack the warmth of dynamic broadcast mics; use vocal-optimized mics for podcast episodes.
• Neglecting monitoring: Running without headphones leads to latency surprises. Always monitor.
• Over-relying on post-AI: AI is powerful, but capture clean audio first — you can’t fully fix poor tonal balance or severe clipping.
• Undervaluing ergonomics: Long sessions demand comfortable headphones and a boom arm. A small investment pays off in performance quality; check ergonomics kits for desk setups and comfort tips in ergonomics & productivity kit deals.

Case study: hypothetical Ant & Dec starter stack

Based on the format described by the BBC (conversational hangouts, audience Q&A across YouTube and socials), here’s a practical starter setup that balances mobility and broadcast comfort:

1. SteelSeries Arctis 1 USB (for live cross-platform streaming) or Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB + Sony MDR-7506 (for polished recordings)
2. Zoom PodTrak P4 (portable multi-guest recorder) or Focusrite Scarlett Solo (if recording in a controlled studio) — see portable kit reviews and field guides in compact recording kit reviews and low-latency field audio guides.
3. Pop filters, boom arms, and basic acoustic panels
4. Riverside.fm for remote guest local recording; Descript Studio Sound for post-production polish

This combination gives the duo—or any TV hosts—flexibility to shoot quick, live episodes and to produce clean audio for edited post releases and social clips. If you plan to do on-site shoots at events or sports fixtures, check portable pitch-side and vlogging kit field tests like the portable pitch-side vlogging kit review to match microphones, wireless packs, and recorders to the environment.

Final actionable checklist before your first live episode

• Pick one of the three workflows above and buy that bundle.
• Do a full technical rehearsal including remote guests and a full-length recording.
• Check levels, direct monitoring, and mix-minus routing.
• Record a “behind the scenes” raw track for your editor — it saves time identifying audio glitches.
• Schedule post-production tasks: noise reduction, EQ, loudness normalisation (–16 LUFS for podcasts), and clip creation for social platforms.

Conclusion: Launch like a pro without the price tag

Ant & Dec’s new podcast launch is a reminder that celebrity status opens doors — but audio quality keeps listeners. A smart, entry-level podcast headset or entry-level mic bundle will let you sound like the pro you are while staying budget-conscious. In 2026, with AI cleanup and cloud-backed workflows standard, your focus should be on good capture, consistent monitoring, and clear workflows for guests.

Call to action

Ready to pick a bundle? Start with our recommended ATR2100x + MDR-7506 or the Logitech H390 for instant results. Sign up for headset.live’s deal alerts to catch seasonal bundles and refurbished offers — and download our free pre-launch audio checklist to run your first episode like a broadcast pro.

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