For the MCasting Research Project, I have suggested the following hardware:

Audio Hardware

M-Audio Mobile Pre USB Powered Preamp Audio Interface :

• M-Audio web site ( http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/MobilePreUSB.html)
• M-Audio Mobile Pre (http://www.long-mcquade.com/?page=products&ProductsID=536) $170.00
• Need to buy 1 per workstation (TOTAL: 2)
  

I chose the M-Audio Mobile Pre because it was recommended by another ed tech podcaster and it was the most straightforward device with 2 channels for mics and not a lot of buttons to confuse anybody.

Pop filter

• Musicians Gear Pop Filter (6") (http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Musicians-Gear-Pop-Filter-?sku=483288) $14.99
• Need to buy 2 per workstation (TOTAL: 4)
  

Need a pop filter when recording audio to reduce the distortions created by making b and p sounds. 

Microphone:

• MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount (http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/MXL-MXL-990-Condenser-Microphone-with-Shockmount?sku=273156)  $69.99
• Need to buy 2 per workstation (TOTAL: 4)

This microphone was recommended by a Musician's Friend rep when I called to ask about podcasting equipment.  Comes with case, shockmount, and adapter.  It can standup on the desk for recording or attach to mic stands if you want it off the desk.

XLR cables:

• Any music store carries them and at different prices.  I suggest a cable length of about 20-50ft. ($10 - $30)
• Need to buy 2 per workstation (TOTAL: 4)

Headsets:

• Plantronics .Audio 625 USB Headset (http://www.1800headsets.ca/headset/Plantronics-.Audio-625-USB-Headset/) $59.90

OR

• Plantronics .Audio 750 DSP USB PC headset (http://www.1800headsets.ca/headset/Plantronics-Audio-750-DSP-USB-PC-Headset/)  $99.95
• Need to buy 2 per workstation (TOTAL: 4)

Mic Stands:

The customer service rep at Muscian’s Friend tells me the MXL microphone comes with a desktop stand (the Shock mount acts as a stand).  It can be mounted on a separate stand later.  If so then we can look at these mic stands:

• Musicians Gear Low Profile Tripod Base Mic Stand (Black) (http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Musicians-Gear-Low-Profile-Tripod-Base-Mic-Stand?sku=451038)

• On-Stage Stands Tripod Microphone Stand 2-Pack (http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/OnStage-Stands-Tripod-Mic-Stand-With-Boom-2-Pack?sku=453710)

Video Hardware

The Flip Camcorders can be bought at Amazon.ca, Walmart, Futureshop, or Best Buy

•  (http://ca.theflip.com/products_flip_ultra.shtml#scene=sceneMain)
• The Flip Ultra (http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0029U1DSM/ref=s9_mwsh_gw_ir03?pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_s=center-4&pf_rd_r=13RC0GCP2GSFKMFCSSJW&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=467607551&pf_rd_i=915398) $179.99
• or Flip Ultra HD (http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0029U1DVY/ref=s9_simx_gw_s3_p23_i1?pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=13RC0GCP2GSFKMFCSSJW&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=465532811&pf_rd_i=915398) $249.99
• Need to buy 1 per workstation (TOTAL: 2)
  

The only decision here is whether to go with HD or not.  I think it wise not to bother with HD at this time.  Video created in HD creates larger file sizes and it is already time-consuming to deal with regular video file sizes.  Something we can look at later on.