Blog

How To Make WordPress Faster In 8 Steps?

May 4, 2024
4 Reasons Why Thrive Website Builder Is The Best

May 4, 2024
Best Podcast Equipment: Helping You Find the Best Podcast Gear
Planning to start your own podcast but no idea which is the best podcast equipment?

In this post, we will discover the best podcast equipment including the best headphones for podcasting, the best podcast recording software and of course, the best USB micrphone.

Why should you use the best podcast equipment?

Buying equipment for podcasting is an area that can be incredibly frustrating. Many podcasters suggest poor equipment, software, and set-ups.

What equipment you decide to purchase will depend on your technological comfort level and your budget. However, it’s important to understand all your options before deciding.

Using the right podcast equipment is going to produce better (and often times higher quality) podcast output. In return, you will be able to create better user experience and engaging with your listeners in a way that most new podcasters couldn’t!

Without further adieu, let’s start going through the best podcast equipment (without burning a hole in your pocket).

Best microphone for podcast recording

Audio-Technica ATR2100 is a popular microphone for podcasters

When it comes to recording a podcast, sound output and recording is critical.

As a podcaster myself, I wouldn’t recommend you to go with the cheap microphones available.

Luckily for you, there is a wide range of microphone recommendations that you can find on Amazon.

How cheap is cheap microphones?

I would say buying a good microphone for podcasting will cost you under $100.

For me, the best USB microphone is Audio-Technica ATR2100 which you can purchase for only $74 on Amazon.

Wait, how good is Audio-Technica ATR2100?

With 1,684 customer reviews averaging 4 out of 5 stars review, this is the best microphone for podcast recording that is used by top podcasters!

If you are looking for cheap microphones for entry level podcasters, this is a great USB/XLR microphone.

Click on this link to get the best deal for Audio-Technica ATR2100 on Amazon.

Best podcast recording software

There are many different audio editing programs that will work to edit podcasts, but we’re just going to focus on the best podcast recording software.

Getting the best podcast recording software is important because it allows you to:
- Record audio without issue
- Perform advanced setting to make your audio clearer and sharper
- Manage and edit your audio easier (especially during the podcast editing stage)
Best podcast software for Windows

I’m a Windows user (for ages now) and Windows users are pretty darn lucky.

There is the all-time-popular Audacity which is free to use and Adobe Audition which is a paid version.

1. Audacity

Here’s what you need to know about Audacity — it is a free cross-platform audio editor.

Audacity is a very popular podcast equipment for podcasters and it is comes packing with some features (even when you can download it for free).

The only downside about Audacity is that it lacks the intuitive user interface and it can be very confusing when you are first getting started. Once you get the hang of it, I’m sure you are going to love it!

2. Adobe Audition

If you are looking for the best podcast equipment, Adobe Audition must be in your list of tool!

This software is designed for podcast production and editing, and comes with many advanced tools just for that matter. There are a number features including noise-reduction capabilities, advanced compression and EQ.

Want to perform batch processing and saving time? You can do so with Adobe Audition! In just a few clicks, you can apply various effects to one file, save it, then apply those same effects to a “batch” of other files.

Best podcast software for Mac

There are several podcast equipment you can install on your Mac for podcasting. The top two podcast software for Mac are GarageBand and Logic Pro.

1. GarageBand

GarageBand is a free digital audio workstation (also known as DAW) and it is a great podcast software for podcasters, regardless you are a beginner or advanced podcaster.

Using GarageBand, you can create separate tracks for music, intros and outros, ad spots, and many other features. You can also easily fade them in and out as needed, move them around and adjust levels in just a few clicks.

If you are a Mac user, GarageBand is definitely a no-brainer for your podcasting business.

2. Logic Pro X

Logic Pro X is a pretty interesting podcasting software for Mac. In short, Logic Pro X is a full-featured music production and audio editing program.

Logic Pro X does a lot of features similar to GarageBand and the biggest advantage of this software is the Remote App which you can use on iPhone or iPad.

The only downside using Logic Pro X is that it comes with a one-time purchase fee of $200.

The best headphone for podcasting

If you are planning to publish lengthy podcast episodes, getting yourself a decent quality headset microphone is an awesome choice.

Most of them are super easy to use, generally pretty inexpensive, and they serve double duty by also helping you out with better quality when you’re using Skype or Google Hangouts day to day.

Here are the top 3 podcast headset I highly recommend you to use.

1. Sennheiser PC 8 USB – Stereo USB Headset for PC and MAC with In-line Volume and Mute Control

I love this podcast headset because it is light and comfortable. Plus, it comes with in-line volume and mute control which are definitely pluses for me.

You can check out this product on Amazon (it costs like $32+).

2. Audio Technica ATH-COM2 Stereo/dynamic Boom Mic Combination Headset

Audio Technica isn’t just selling cheap microphones for podcasting, it also offers a nice range of podcast headsets such as this one.

This headset is great because it gives a very comfortable grip when wearing it and offers very good build quality (feels expensive).

It is sold on Amazon for only $35 (purchase link).

3. Logitech High-performance USB Headset H540 for Windows and Mac, Skype Certified

This Logitech podcast headset is one of the best value for money headphone. For only $29, this is the by far the cheapest headset for podcasting and offers one of the best features.
- checkVery high build quality of the group – big and chunky (in a good way)
- checkPadded headphones and headband offer excellent feel
- checkThe microphone arm is solid, easily adjusted and kept to the side of your mouth
If you are looking for a cheap podcast headset, go for this one and you will never regret it. Check out the product page here.

Best mixer for podcasting

Mixer for podcasting isn’t cheap — but they are important podcasting equipment if you are looking for success.

Question: Why should you use a mixer for podcasting?

Answer: Using a mixer will improve your audio quality. The pre-amps will be nicer and will really help your microphone shine. Podcasters buy mixers for the advanced features/options and the control that they offer, as well as the efficiency they can bring to your recording workflow.

So, which is the best mixer for podcasting?

1. Yamaha MG10 10-Input Stereo Mixer

If you are looking for the best budget mixer for podcasting, you don’t have to look any further. The Yamaha MG10 mixer is going to serve you well.

The Yamaha MG10 is a brilliant little mixer with an amazingly quiet noise floor, especially at this price. It has features normally found only on expensive units, such as in-built compression, and it also has Aux Out so that you can run a mix-minus setup.

For $150+ on Amazon, this is definitely one of the best podcast equipment you need to have in your toolbox. Check out the product features and review here.

2. Behringer XENYX X1204USB

Behringer mixer is not your average mixer. As a matter of fact, it is one of the best mid-range mixer for podcasting, alongside Yamaha MG10 mixer.

The Behringer Xenyx 1204 is a fully featured mixer that’ll do the job for any podcaster out there that needs a lot more channels and the full set of mixer features.

You can check it out on Amazon (price tag at $179+) here.

Summary: Best Podcast Equipment

If you are serious in starting your own podcast, you should focus on getting good podcast equipment to produce the best audio experience to your audience.

Using the best microphone, mixer and podcast recording software are all equally important and you should not take lightly on.

What is your favorite podcast equipment? Share me with it using the comment form below!
April 19, 2024
Host Your Own Podcast: The ULTIMATE Guide

April 19, 2024
ConvertKit vs ActiveCampaign: Does ActiveCampaign Free Trial Makes The Cut?
ConvertKit vs ActiveCampaign — why I switched from Active Campaign to ConvertKit?

Months back, I was using ActiveCampaign and it was pretty decent. I mean, for $9 a month for 500 email subscribers is pretty much a damn good deal.

As a matter of fact, I was happy — Email was sending out on time, and I was able to manage my email list faster and more efficient.

But something changed. I decided that I need to reduce cost (for 2018) and every bit of technology we use is rechecked to make sure we are getting the best deal.

I came across a cold and scary fact. I was spending too much on my ActiveCampaign subscription. While I was happy, I know that I’ll be happy if I’m able to save the agency some extra money.

That’s when my hunt for ActiveCampaign alternatives came into play and ultimately, I came across ConvertKit (for business and not as a blogger).

Before that, let’s get the fact right.

Both ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are great email marketing software and I hope that this simple comparison between both of these tools will help you make your decision much easier.

Disclaimer

I used ActiveCampaign for my business for over 3 months before moving to ConvertKit. Carry on reading to find the advantages and disadvantages for both ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign.

ConvertKit

ConvertKit is a simple and powerful email marketing solution for serious marketers.

If I would sum what ConvertKit is all about, here’s what I think:

ConvertKit is a powerful new email service provider that provides InfusionSoft like automation capabilities without the InfusionSoft price.

Don’t get me wrong — ConvertKit is far from being a full suite email marketing solution. However, it comes with some freaking awesome features helps you manage your email subscribers easily and more effectively.

Creating an account on ConvertKit is simple (here’s the link). Right after that, I move forward to create my first email list and prepare to collect emails.

This is what it looks like.

ConvertKit is pretty sleek and creating forms is really easy. The entire process is well-thought through and seriously, it made my day!

I was thinking that it will be something really tough to start with, and I was wrong. Thankfully!

I decided to use ConvertKit because it has a drag and drop visual automation builder just like ActiveCampaign.

here’s where you can build “if this, then that” email marketing campaign.

Advantages using ConvertKit (vs ActiveCampaign)
- checkConvertKit is the best for online creators
- checkInbuilt with landing page and lead in forms
- checkConvertKit easy-to-embed, customizable opt-in forms help you turn casual readers into repeat customers
- checkConvertKit homepage dashboard allows you to keep track of your growth that displays subscriber data and opt-in conversions
- checkConvertKit simple workflows with “if this, then that” style automation rules make it easy to create your own custom rules
- checkInbuilt drag-and-drop sequence builder (visual automation) helps you create personalized automated emails to grow your list while scaling your business
- checkEasily organize email subscribers from one list with tags and segments (minus the massive costs)
- checkFriendly and knowledgeable support team
Disadvantages using ConvertKit (vs ActiveCampaign)
- Entry level pricing is a little steep
- No free trial available
ConvertKit is the best if …

As said earlier, ConvertKit is not for everyone. However, if you are serious in tagging and segmenting your audience, ConvertKit is a better option compared to ActiveCampaign.

Besides that, the single biggest advantage that ConvertKit has over ActiveCampaign is simply because the pricing structure. While ConvertKit is more expensive in the entry level, ActiveCampaign costs more when you have a large email list (or require additional features). ConvertKit doesn’t charge additional for features which extremely favorable when it comes to dollar and cents.

ActiveCampaign

ActiveCampaign is an unique email marketing solution. Highly affordable, free trial and good entry level pricing makes ActiveCampaign highly sought after tool.

My first reason for choosing ActiveCampaign is because I used MailChimp for a long time. And I seriously miss their HTML template builder.

With ActiveCampaign, I have pretty similar feature and I can start creating email templates based on my needs.

The visual builder is intuitive and fun to use. As a matter of fact, I did not experience a single glitch when using ActiveCampaign!

So, what did I switched from ActiveCampaign to ConvertKit? More on this below.

Carry on reading the below to find both the advantages and disadvantages using ActiveCampaign.

Advantages using ActiveCampaign (vs ConvertKit)
- checkDrag and drop builder is slightly more intuitive compared to ConvertKit
- checkActiveCampaign can easily be converted into a CRM to understand your customer behavior
- checkIntegration between email marketing, site messaging and SMS under one roof
- checkComes with Chrome extension
- checkIntegrated form builder
- checkActiveCampaign can track page visits and custom events you define, providing real-time behavioral analysis
- checkActiveCampaign comes with 14 days free trial
- checkA support team who is available 24/7/365 to help out
Disadvantages using ActiveCampaign (vs ConvertKit)
- Higher pricing structure for larger list
- Entry level pricing provides limited features
- Higher learning curve compared to ConvertKit
ActiveCampaign is best if …

You love creating email marketing funnels and you have a small list. This is what I mean.

ActiveCampaign is best for new bloggers or marketers who aim to make the best out of email marketing. The full email marketing suite is great for business owners if you don’t mind about the price.

Which Email Marketing Solution Is Better Than MailChimp?ConvertKit vs ActiveCampaign: Which is better?

ConvertKit offers a more all-rounder feature and pricing structure, which for me is the best choice available. Plus, it is extremely easy to scale with ConvertKit and there is migration services available (for free) when you are moving from other email providers.

ActiveCampaign works marvelously well in many parts but the downside for me is the pricing structure. To have a full suite of features, it costs way more than ConvertKit and is definitely eating up my profit margin. This is also the reason why I switched from ActiveCampaign to ConvertKit months ago.
April 19, 2024
Beaver Builder vs Divi vs Thrive Architect: Comparing for the ULTIMATE website builder tool
Beaver Builder vs Divi vs Thrive Architect — which is the best WordPress builder for you?

Recently, I had published a full and detailed article about the top 5 drag and drop website builder in 2018. Then, it struck my mind.

What if I want to compare each of the builder tools instead? So, this post is to compliment it by going through comparison between the my personal favorite of the top three website builders.

Wait, what is a landing page builder?

A landing page builder helps you create landing pages (like the above) or design your site easily without using a single line of code. It also helps you to build website designs faster and more efficient.

Beaver Builder

Beaver Builder is a simple and very straightforward website builder doesn’t don’t suck.

The Beaver Builder comes with two forms — plugin and theme builder.

Want to know more about Beaver Builder plugin or theme?

Here’s a cool resource for you: The ULTIMATE Beaver Builder Review (updated for 2018)

I recommend Beaver Builder because it is super easy to use and is not cluttered with tons of features that will make you go nuts.

Advantages using Beaver Builder (vs Divi vs Thrive Architect)
- checkKick-start your creativity with dozens of gorgeous page templates
- checkYou can position images and text with precision, and build column based layouts in minutes
- checkSeparate your page builder from your theme and get complete control of your content
- checkThe Beaver Builder Page Builder plugin works with almost any theme (Genesis, Divi, Woothemes, Ultimatum and others)
- checkYou can configure a row/module once, then use it all over your site.
- checkPlus, set a saved row/module as a global and your changes will affect all instances of the module/row!
- checkBeaver Builder supports shortcodes and widgets so you can use your other favorite plugins
Disadvantages using Beaver Builder (vs Divi vs Thrive Architect)
- Pricing structure is steep compared to other builders
- Beaver Builder isn’t really build to look good (backend) compared to Divi and Thrive Architect
- Two different components (Beaver Builder plugin and Beaver Builder Theme) can be confusing for beginners
Beaver Builder Review

Overall, Beaver Builder is a good builder tool if you are looking to redesign your site (or client’s ones) without any coding skills.

The usage of Beaver Builder makes web designing much faster and efficient with the global row and column features.

Plus, the massive and supporting community/reviews show that Beaver Beaver is a great tool and there is support standing strong behind the Beaver Builder.

Thinking twice if Beaver Builder is the right one for you?

No, you don’t have to!

Even the biggest names in WordPress trust and recommend Beaver Builder for obvious reasons.

Divi Builder

Divi 3.0 or Divi Builder plugin is one of the most popular drag and drop website builder for developers.

Divi is the flagship product of Elegant Themes. Serving over 488,000 customers and counting, Divi is a heavy lifter when it comes to website builder.

While Divi Builder plugin is often used by website developers, it is also used by seasons bloggers.

It is not just because Divi makes beautiful websites — Divi makes it really easy for you to create powerful website designs without a single line of code. Click here for the full Elegant Themes (Divi) review.

I highly recommend Divi Builder because it is very flexible and website designing is a brief. Here’s a quick sample of what you can do with Divi.

Advantages using Divi (vs Beaver Builder vs Thrive Architect)
- checkReal time design (front-end editor)
- checkAbility to customize anything and everything
- checkJust click and type (no coding required)
- checkAutomatic responsive editing
- checkGlobal elements save time and energy
- checkEasily import and export contents from the library
- check20+ pre-made layouts ready to download
- checkFast website loading speed
- checkIn-line editing feature
- checkDrag-able widths
- checkElements for every occasion
- checkEasily share and download layouts and content from Elegant Theme’s community
- checkEasy pricing structure and highly affordable
Disadvantages using Divi (vs Beaver Builder vs Thrive Architect)
- Feature-rich website builder tool may be ‘too much’ for beginners
- A little bit heavy which affects website loading speed
Divi Builder Review

Overall, Divi Builder is a great option when compared to Beaver Builder and Thrive Architect. The rich features allows you to put web designing in the front seat while making all your design ideas come to life.

The drag and drop website builder is intuitive and powerful — making it an ideal option for web designers and bloggers who want to redesign their sites.

Thrive Architect (previously known as Thrive Content Builder)

Some may call Thrive Architect the underdog in the website builder arena but do not take that lightly.

Since the launched of Thrive Architect (previously known as Thrive Content Builder), it has become one of the top household names when it comes to building websites using drag and drop tool.

Editor’s Note

What I personally love about Thrive Architect is that it is build around conversion. Every element or designs you can find on Thrive Architect is aimed to convert your website visitors into paying customers or email subscribers. Click here to head directly to the demo page.

When comparing Thrive Architect vs Beaver Builder vs Divi, I got to admit that Thrive Architect certainly comes with some advanced features (which makes is very tempting to use).

Take a look below.

Easily drag and customize column size

Grab the attention using different elements

Customize the fonts anyway you like it to be

Width customization is easily done without coding

Hover effect enables you to create better CTA

Make yout buttons stand out and unique (increase conversion)

If you are wondering, this page is created using Thrive Architect.

Advantages using Thrive Architect (vs Beaver Builder vs Divi)
- checkInstant drag and drop editing
- checkNo coding or design skills needed
- checkOver 220 beautifully designed and 100% conversion focused landing page templates to download and use instantly
- checkPre-built conversion elements
- checkAbility to create sales pages without hiring a professional copywriter
- checkAbility to create different type of pages (webinar, product launch, opt-in, sales pages etc.) in just a few clicks
- checkUltra-flexible column layouts
- checkAttention-grabbing texts and image combinations
- checkTotal font customization (feel free to go crazy with it)
- checkAdvanced, attention grabbing hover effects
- checkCosts way cheaper compared to Beaver Builder and Divi
- checkExcellent support team in case you ever need help
Disadvantages using Thrive Architect (vs Beaver Builder vs Divi)
- Known to not play nice with CloudFlare (the files on Thrive Architect are all optimized already in advance)
Thrive Architect Review

To be honest, Thrive Architect is really an interesting website builder (comparing with Beaver Builder and Divi).

Having using Thrive Architect for over a year, I got to say that Thrive Architect is still my favorite drag and drop website builder compared to Divi and Beaver Builder.

While I have no issues with any of these site builder tools, I feel that Thrive Architect is very light and helps me focus in one particular area — converting website visitors into email subscribers.

Want to know more about Thrive Architect?

Thrive Architect is a great choice but is it right for you? Let’s face it — there is no one product that fits all. Therefore, how about taking a quick look at this post to help you with the decision making? Thrive Architect Review: Is it worth the hype and money?

Beaver Builder vs Divi vs Thrive Architect: Which is better?

Make no mistake as all three are great site builders. My personal choice would be Thrive Architect, followed by Divi and finally, Beaver Builder.

What about you? Leave a comment below and tell me what you think!
April 19, 2024