There is a method that actually doesn't require an array modifier:
First figure out how many objects you need, then divide 360 by that number and you have the amount of degrees between each object. For this example, I use a step value of 10 degrees for 36 objects.
Then place the 3D-Cursor in the center of rotation and set the pivot point in the header to 3D-Cursor.

Select your object, duplicate it with SHIFTD and then without even confirming that hit R10RETURN.
That way, Blender considers duplication and rotation as a single action, not two.
You can now use the repeat hotkey SHIFTR to create a full circle of objects and they will be rotated evenly around the cursor.
You can use ALTD to create linked copies instead of SHIFTD if you want to save a bit of memory and filesize. All objects will then use the same mesh.
The advantage of this method is that you have ready to use objects which keep their axes and you save the time for setting up the modifier.