If you're just getting into podcasting, or you're in the market for some new recording gear, the first thing you'll want to look into is a good mic. Audio Technica's ATR2100-USB microphone — which, for you audio nerds out there, is of the cardioid dynamic USB/XLR variety — is one of the best all-in-one solutions around.

As Marco Arment says in his podcasting mic mega-review, the ATR2100 is great at eliminating room echo and background noise, provided you speak up closely to it. Each one comes with its own tripod desk stand, so there's no need to purchase one separately. There's also a built-in headphone jack so you can monitor your audio without hearing any distracting delays.

Note: You don't necessarily need to use a pop filter with the ATR2100, but this foam windscreen is a cheap and easy way to reduce unwanted noise even further (not to mention protect the mic from the unfortunate reality of speaker spit).

Get the ATR2100 for $59 on Amazon.