Because podcasting should be this easy. The RODE USB Podcaster is a broadcast-quality microphone that doesn't need any special cables, drivers or other doodads. Just plug it into a USB port and you're on your way to recording sound that's clear enough to give that professional edge to your podcast. Cleverly enough, the Podcaster website features a recording of Australian radio personality Ken Sparkes, just to prove how good the microphone's sound is.

The Podcaster isn't the only USB microphone around, but it's been getting solid reviews on websites for podcast enthusiasts. Also, it has a headphone jack and volume-out control on the microphone itself, which makes it that much easier to monitor audio quality directly from the device.

Given the social nature of podcasting, RODE also hosts a site where Podcaster users can upload their podcasts or browse other users' podcasts. I really don't think podcasting gets much easier than this.

The RODE USB Podcaster is a finalist in the Australian Design Awards. Available for $195 from Amazon.