If you're thinking about starting a podcast, you're far from alone. Anyone can create a podcast, but you've got to have the right tools to start. Recording in a studio is the best option, but that might not be possible for everybody.
Even if you've got a killer angle, the first step in becoming the next big hit is a solid recording and edit. Here's the best podcast recording software and apps for podcasters of every skill level.
1. Audacity
Audacity is a free podcasting app that does pretty much anything a podcaster would need. While this is a bare-bones option, it's one of the best podcasting tools for beginners looking to test out the medium.
The open-source software runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux; you can easily hook up a USB microphone and start recording.
The main window serves as your dashboard. Here, you can access all editing tools, mix audio tracks, and monitor recordings. Beyond the basics, Audacity includes a handful of sophisticated audio-processing effects that remove unwanted coughs, static, or other distracting sounds.
This is a great software for recording podcasts, however, it doesn't support MIDI or instrument plug-ins, so this isn't the best choice for someone who wants a tool they can use for music and podcasting.
Once you've played around with the app, you'll start to get a handle on how to create a great podcast.
2. GarageBand
If you have a Mac, GarageBand is a free digital audio workstation (DAW) that comes included with your OS. It's a solid podcast recorder software option for amateurs and podcasting veterans alike. Getting the ball rolling is as simple as opening the app and starting a new project.
The layout is attractive and easy to navigate, and you'll even have access to a few templates designed specifically for podcasters. Like Audacity, GarageBand is free, but there are a few key differences.
GarageBand is a fully-fledged recording studio that comes with a MIDI synth station, instrument plug-in support, and a stellar interface.
GarageBand's primary features include its suite of digital instruments, such as keyboards, drums, and guitars. As such, it's clear that Apple has musicians in mind above all here, not necessarily podcasters. Still, there are some built-in podcasting templates, sound profiles for both male and female voices, jingles, stingers, and sound effects.
GarageBand is only available on Mac, so PC users looking for a free option should stick with Audacity. The apps are comparable, though. Audacity comes with more podcast-specific tools, whereas GarageBand comes with a more attractive interface and a shorter learning curve.
3. Apple Logic Pro X
Apple's Logic Pro X is certainly the most advanced option in this lineup. This podcasting software focuses on music production, with features like Smart Tempo, Brush Drum Kits, and more plug-ins and sounds than any of the competitors.
Whether or not you're jazzed about the program's built-in brass section or the ability to add in drummers, Logic brings some powerful tools into the podcasting arena.
The post-production effects are top-notch and there are several automation features that will help you streamline the editing process. The Track List feature, for example, lets you edit more than one track at a time or quickly hop between them by shift-clicking to another.
For some, Logic X may have a few too many features. If you're not a musician, it may be a bit too much. You can hide the items you don't need, such as the MIDI keyboard tools or the music notation editor.
Logic Pro X is a great choice for podcasting, albeit a costly one: $199 for the Standard edition. Whether or not this is the best choice for you depends on what you want your podcasting tool to do.
4. Adobe Audition
One of the most popular choices for experienced podcasters and newbies alike is Adobe Audition. This DAW is a flexible, subscription-based option that allows you to record audio files, mixing and editing to your heart's content.
Adobe's audio software is considered to be a premium option, at least compared to free platforms like Audacity or GarageBand. You'll get the most out of Audition if you understand the basics of audio editing.
Adobe Audition comes with a range of features that give your tracks a crisp, professional touch. The noise reduction tools are particularly effective, as is its approach to multitrack recording, which allows you to set levels for each guest voice and edit them separately in post-production.
Audition costs $20.99 a month. However, if sound quality is your primary concern, Adobe Audition is well worth the investment.
5. Hindenburg Journalist
Hindenburg Journalist is a storyteller's dream. As the name suggests, this is software designed for broadcast journalists. It's perfect for narrative podcasts in the vein of Serial or This American Life. Hindenburg's automatic settings use the same standards as NPR, so you can channel your favorite public radio personalities with ease.
Where Apple Logic Pro X focuses primarily on music, Hindenburg provides a curated collection of podcasting essentials.
Hindenburg records uncompressed sound, so you'll get the best audio quality possible. Beyond that, it comes with an automated equalizer that helps you maintain a consistent sound throughout each recording.
This helps when you're on the go, working from different locations, or using a laptop outdoors. The software works across multiple devices, allowing users to plug in their USB microphone anywhere and start recording.
Organization tools like the clipboard help you arrange the best sound bytes from every interview, add in music and effects, and insert multi-track clips. You can zoom out and really consider how the story fits together.
Hindenburg Yearly will run you $5 a month, with 50% off your first year. A perpetual Hindenburg license costs $349 and includes many premium podcast-recording features, such as multi-track recording.
6. Zencastr
Zencastr is perfect for podcasters working with remote guests. This podcast app comes with an easy-to-use invite system that records each guest on a separate audio track.
The software records each voice locally, with pristine quality. Sometimes, recording remotely can present a few snags, like lag or audio issues. Zencastr is a lot like Skype or Zoom, allowing it to contend with these technical issues for your remote podcast recording session.
Zencastr beats using your run-of-the-mill voiceover IP. It comes with redundant backups and continues to record, even if you lose your connection.
You can connect it to your Dropbox or Google Drive for access to files and easy editing. It also comes with a soundboard for live editing, which lets you insert your intro, ads, or other segments as you record.
Zencastr offers automatic post-production tools and lossless WAV, but these features are part of the premium package. Free users get high-quality MP3, which might be fine for casual podcasters and those just recording for their friends.
Zencastr's Hobbyist plan is free for anyone. Zencastr Professional costs $20 monthly, but this price is reduced to $18 a month when you commit to a yearly package.
Choose the Best Software or App for Recording Your Podcasts
Podcasts are a fantastic medium for telling stories and connecting with people who share similar interests. These tools will all help you deliver your narrative, be it a true-crime podcast or deep dive into your favorite video game.
Microphones, screens, and other gear all have their place. Choosing the best podcast recording app, however, should always be the first step that you take.