Part 3: Post-Tax Season Upgrades
Pro-Level Accessories
You've upgraded your desktop and laptop. But if you're still using earbuds from a 2019 conference swag bag and lighting your face with a desk lamp, it's time to up your game!
These are the tools that elevate your workspace—whether you're meeting with clients, teaching a webinar, creating content, or just trying to look and sound better on Zoom. Here's what I recommend (and use) to take things to the next level.
Full Disclosure: While I am not an “influencer”, some of these links may result in me earning a small commission if you purchase the item.
🎧 Headphones: Clarity & Comfort
You need more than sound—you need isolation, clarity, and comfort for long sessions. Some people prefer over-the-ear headphones, while others like earbuds. I have included both options. I prefer earbuds, especially for video calls.
My picks:
Apple AirPods Pro 2 – seamless if you're in the Apple ecosystem, great active noise cancellation.
Other Options:
Apple AirPods Max – these are also great, but are awkward to travel with, and I am not a fan of wearing bulky headphones when I’m on a video call. It looks dated to me.
Sony WH-1000XM6 – A great option for long wear that works with various platforms.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds – Great audio, noise cancellation and good battery life
🛠 Why it matters: Zoom calls sound better. You stay focused. You’re not dealing with ambient noise. It even blocks the Chief Fetch Officer out when he decides to bark, which always happens when I get connected to IRS.
🎤 Microphone: Sound Your Best
If you're doing anything beyond casual meetings—like podcasting, teaching, or YouTube—get a real mic.
My Pick:
Shure MV7+ – Now, why did I choose this model? It lights up and looks sleek—but more importantly, Shure makes outstanding mics, and this one connects easily via USB. I wanted a microphone with clear quality for Zoom calls and webinars.
Other Options:
Blue Yeti – This is also a solid choice. Again, it is USB and doesn’t require an audio interface.
Rode Wireless Micro – These are really great if you’re traveling and recording or moving around in a video. Great quality and excellent battery life.
🛠 Why it matters: Your voice becomes your brand. This mic makes you sound clear, confident, and professional, whether you’re helping a client or hosting a webinar.
🎛️ Elgato Stream Deck XL (Also comes in smaller options)
This is a game-changer for productivity. It’s like having programmable hotkeys for your life.
What I use it for:
Launch Zoom or Teams
Mute/unmute mic or turn off camera
Trigger automation tools like Zapier or TextExpander
Control Spotify, lights, or even switch camera scenes
Commonly used citations – like Circular 230 §10.35 (You know… for some of those Facebook tax groups.)
Control lights (including home office lights)
Unlimited Potential with multistep automations
🛠 Why it matters: It saves you clicks, typing, keeps you focused, and makes your setup feel futuristic.
💡 Key Lighting: Elgato Key Light or Key Light Air
Lighting can instantly improve how you appear on camera, more than a new webcam ever will.
My pick:
Elgato Key Light Air – adjustable brightness and color temperature, app-controlled
Optional: Mount two for full light balance, or add a backlight for depth
Other Options:
· Elgato Ring Light - A good economical option. Works with desktop and mobile app.
🛠 Why it matters: Professional lighting makes you look more polished in virtual meetings, classes, or recordings. No more “washed out” or “dark cave” looks.
🖥️ External Monitor
Even if you’re on a laptop, extra screen real estate = extra productivity.
My Pick:
· Dell Ultrasharp 40” Curved Thunderbolt Monitor - Not cheap, but excellent color and a 120Hz refresh rate. It doubles as a hub for all your accessories and can be split into two virtual monitors. (Mac and Windows compatible)
Other Options:
LG 27” 4K (27UP850K-W) – Good color, speakers, USB-C input with power delivery (can charge laptop)
Apple Studio Display – pricey, but stunning if you're all-in on Mac. Built-in microphone and webcam.
🛠 Why it matters: More space to keep tax software, research, and emails visible all at once. And less tab-switching means less fatigue.
📦 Bonus Accessories to Consider
Monitor arm (Ergotron) - clears desk space, better ergonomics
External webcam (Logitech Brio 4K or Insta360 Link 2) – better framing and clarity
Logitech MX Master 3s - My favorite mouse hands down.
Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard - Great keyboard. Sometimes it can get loud, so if noise bothers you, it may not be a great option.
What are your favorite tech accessories? Have questions? Please comment below!
This was very timely. Great recommendations!