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There's a variety of recording software available for both new and experienced broadcasters. Some come with unique features like built-in instruments and music editing. In contrast, others come with the essential elements of noise reduction and leveling for a clear audio clip.
Thankfully, there are both free and paid options to choose from. Many free programs will get the job done well, but their paid counterparts are useful for automated or finetuning tools.
What to Consider Before You Choose a Podcast Recording Software
Multiple podcast recording software can offer great options, but people will still prefer one or the other based on their needs. Here are some considerations to pick your fit.
- Solo or Multi Mic
- Music
- Automation
- Price
Below, we'll break down each in more detail.
Solo or Multi
Some audio workstations can only register one microphone's audio. If your podcast has interviews, you should check that your recording software can record multiple tracks.
Music
Programs like Garageband have built-in 'digital' instruments. Others let you directly connect tools like MIDI pianos. Sometimes, programs will be more pricey because of their instrument pack features, but they may not have the clearest voice recordings. Consider which one is more important to your podcast.
Recording or Editing
Some podcast software lets you upload an MP3 and edit it to perfection. But, their built-in voice recording capabilities aren't as good. Make sure your program emphasizes that it can record clear, crisp audio.
Price
Paying a full price upfront can be more affordable than a monthly subscription for some programs. Consider that option if you plan to have a podcast for a long duration.
The Best Free Podcast Recording Software for Windows / Mac
Several standard streaming tools also double as audio recording software. Look below to see what programs you can take advantage of for your podcast.
Audacity
Audacity is a great free podcast recording software that works with microphones or computer audio. It has necessities like noise reduction and equalizer features available.
One downside to this free audio workstation is that it only does destructive podcast editing. So, it's unideal if you want to play with many different effects, such as in a mixtape. You also might need plug-ins like the Nyquist Noise Gate to remove breathing sounds.
Still, Audacity is reliable for recording, free, and get's the job done.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- GNU/Linux
Pros:
- Aggregate multiple audios
- Community support
- Compact program size
Cons:
- Clunky UI
- Destructive editing
Zoom
Zoom isn't just good for online meetings. It's also an excellent free podcast recording software. You only need to hit a few buttons to record a zoom meeting, and it accommodates remote speakers.
When you download the audio, it automatically splits participants' audios for you. That gives you the flexibility to adjust every person's voice as needed.
Unfortunately, Zoom has to compress its audio for downloading. So, while it gets the job done, it doesn't have the clearest sound. It's a worthwhile option for remote podcast recording.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Android
- iOS
Pros:
- Simple set up
- Remote interviewing
- Good noise cancellation
Cons:
- No editing features
- Average sound quality
Ardour
Ardour markets itself as an affordable digital audio workstation for musicians. It offers a free/demo version that supports up to 10 minutes of audio. After that, it might periodically go silent during editing.
Although it's not completely free, you can pay a small per month subscription to avoid that problem. It'll also give you access to developer updates.
Ardour's strong suit is that it has MIDI input support. Musicians will find versatile tools for recording, mixing, and live performance management here.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
Pros:
- Connects to MIDI
- Non-destructive audio editing
- Versatile features
Cons:
- Difficult setup
- Big learning curve
Ocenaudio
Ocenaudio is one of the more user-friendly podcast recording software free on our list. At first glance, it looks like a simple, colorful audio editor. In action, it gives you handy features like customizable commands.
With VST support for plug-ins, this has become a popular digital podcast recording software. Plus, if you're working in linguistics, you can use its spectral analysis feature. However, you should know it doesn't support CD burning.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
Pros:
- Real-time effects previews
- Non-destructive editing
- Easy and colorful UX/UI
Cons:
- Irregular updates
- Few English tutorials
Garageband
Garageband is Apple's built-in digital audio workstation. It comes included in newer iPad and MacBook purchases.
One neat feature it has is built-in digital instruments. Since it integrates with iOS, you could record your podcast on your phone and edit it on your Macbook later.
Its multitrack recording seemed to be tricky for users, so you might need to watch tutorials. But it's worth a shot if you already have a Mac.
Supported OS:
- macOS
- iOS
Pros:
- Digital 'instruments'
- Easy splicing
- Voice effects
Cons:
- Tricky multitrack editing
- Not for advanced users
The Best Paid Software for Podcast Recording on Windows / Mac
Paid audio recording software can save you time and stress for making long podcast episodes. Consider one of these programs if you need special tools like voice effects.
Adobe Audition
If you already have Adobe Creative Suite, then you have access to Audition. To get it solo, it'll cost you per month.
This podcast recording software is one of the most advanced yet user-friendly programs out there. It's ideal if you use multiple microphones in your podcasts or mixing.
Audition's specialty is editing and producing audio. It doesn't come with music support tools like those for MIDI. It does come with advanced features like quick batch processing and an FX system.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
Pros:
- Repairs damaged audio
- Great for fine-tuning
- Presets and templates available
Cons:
- No music creation
- Learning curve
Spreaker Studio
A free account on Spreaker's website lets you host multiple podcast episodes. You get maximum storage of 5 audio hours before it asks you to upgrade.
Spreaker's built-in recording system makes your voice sound clear and professional. You have the option to live stream, too.
Once you've finished a project, Spreaker streamlines the process of posting it to hosting sites like Deezer. Plus, the paid version gives you an analytics dashboard and monetization tools.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- iOS
- Android
Pros:
- Free hosting
- Intuitive design
- Cross-platform apps
Cons:
- Need to pay for advanced support
- Limited customer service
Hindenburg Journalist
Hindenburg Journalist is one of the best podcast recording software for storytelling. It automatically levels audio as you speak. So when you play it back, extra noises like air conditioning and breathing are already gone.
It has a unique ClipBoard feature that's useful if you need to combine many snippets. You can save several audios on the clipboard to edit in later.
These features make Hindenburg Journalist popular for radio broadcasters and podcasters. It's pricey but a worthy investment for serious recorders.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
Pros:
- Crystal clear voice processing
- Many tutorials available
- Auto-leveling function
Cons:
- Little support for music
- Expensive plans
Reaper
Reaper finds a balance between price and quality. Its basic package has tools for beat making, songwriting, and film scoring. If you don't want to buy it immediately, it has a 60 day trial period.
Another unique feature is how customizable it is. Its user interface is simple, but you can download skins to personalize your workspace.
Reaper's team responds to user requests fast, so you get frequent updates. Some people feel overwhelmed by how many features it has, but that's part of what makes it worth the view.
Supported OS:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
Pros:
- Live streaming capabilities
- Lightweight, fast speed
- Multitrack recording
Cons:
- Few tutorials
- No mobile app
Alitu
Alitu's main strength is an automated DAW. After uploading or recording your audio, it'll offer features like noise and hum reduction for you automatically.
You can use its theme music builder to add branding to your podcast. However, it is browser only. While it can record your audio without internet access, you may want to do it under strong WIFI for better quality.
Alitu offers a monthly or yearly subscription. If you don't mind the browser-format, then this is worth a shot.
Supported OS:
- Fully web-based
Pros:
- Intro tutorials included
- Theme music maker
- Automated edits
Cons:
- Browser only
- Not customizable
The Best Podcast Recording Apps for iPhone and Android
Now podcast recording is not limited to a fancy studio with professional devices. You can make podcasts anywhere as long as you installed the best podcast recording app on your iPhone or Android phone. These applications work as excellently as the software above. And some even have set up creator-friendly communities for you to grow more audiences.
Anchor
Anchor, developed by Spotify, is devoted to providing users the easiest way to make podcasts. It gets popular among beginners and hobbyist podcasters for its one-stop shop for podcasting. In Anchor, you can record, edit, distribute, and monetize podcasts on iPhone and Android without a steep learning curve.
Besides general audio recording from the mic of your phone, you can import audio files from the built-in audio library. And it even allows you to co-record with up to 4 guests, which makes it the best app for interview podcasts.
And its intuitive editing platform helps many beginners to add background tracks, sound effects, and transitions without switching to professional software.
Supported OS:
- iOS
- iPadOS
- Android
Pros:
- Completely free on iPhone, iPad, and Android
- Compatible with most external microphones and devices
- Distribute podcasts to Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts with one tap
Cons:
- Only record podcasts in M4A format
- Not ideal for complex music and instruments podcasts
PodBean
PodBean is a famous podcast app on mobile devices built with a professional audio recorder. While recording the broadcast, you can add vivid effects and background music, tweak the tone, and adjust the volume in real-time.
And it comes with a simple post-production tool. When the recording is finished, you can merge, split, and trim the audio file in just a few taps.
To bring your story to the world instantly, you can connect your accounts on other social media platforms to this app. Then it'll share your podcast as soon as you finish the post-editing.
Supported OS:
- iOS
- iPadOS
- Android
Pros:
- Rich background music stock
- Engaging audio live streaming services
- Real-time report of your podcast performances
Cons:
- Annoying ads on unsubscribe version
SoundCloud
SoundCloud, one of the largest music and audio streaming platforms, has gathered many artists, musicians, writers, and sports celebrities, etc.
The free version of SoundCloud is mainly designed for listeners. If you are going to record and publish podcasts on this platform. You need to upgrade to SoundCloud Go which costs $5.99/month.
Since it's developed for sharing pre-made high-quality music, its native podcast recorder and editor are less versatile than its peers. It only allows you to record via the mic of your smartphone, shorten the recorded podcast, and add fade-in/-out effects to the recording.
Supported OS:
- iOS
- iPadOS
- Android
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive
- Create for indie musicians to promote their works
Cons:
- Limited post-editing features
- Can't record a podcast longer than 3 hours
Online Podcast Recorders
Some podcast tools operate solely online. Shaky WIFI doesn't have to deter you from recording on them, though. Here are a few honorable mentions for web-based audio recording software, and how to use them.
Zencastr
Zencastr can record your Skype and Google Hangout interviews with Zoom-like tools. Currently, you can download it on Google Chrome and Firefox.
The instructions are simple:
- Send your meeting link to your guest.
- Hit record.
- Hit Stop Recording when you've finished.
- Wait for the audio to completely process before closing the browser.
When the video is complete, you'll have two separate audio files.
Squadcast
Squadcast's strength is how crisp and clear its audio quality is when you compare it to Zoom and Skype. It also offers a fair price per month. To record a video, you have to:
- Go to your dashboard.
- Create a new session
- Send your guest the invite link/input their email
- Hit Record, then Stop when you're finished.
- Download your video as a WAV or MP3
If you want to save space on your computer, you can also choose to view the audio as a browser link.
Final Words
Ultimately, your podcast's content is more important than what audio software you use. Still, certain DAWs make the recording process much easier. Because of that, podcasting becomes more enjoyable. Make your choice based on what will make podcasting recording easiest for you and your needs.
Choosing the tech stack for your first podcast sure can be a hassle, right?
We’re going over 11+ podcast tools we’ve tested for you, each for a slightly different use case. Note you won’t need all of these. Three apps will be enough for recording and editing:
- A tool for recording and editing.
- A solution to keep your audio clear.
- A platform to create sound effects or music for your intro section, commercial breaks, or ending and call-to-action.
You can follow this with extra software for hosting your podcast or promoting it to your network.
But first…
What to consider when creating your podcasting tech stack
To help you sort through this list and choose the ones that match your requirements, here’s a brief list of points to pay attention to when you’re trying the podcast software yourself:
- What features you need
- If you want a tool to help with both recording and editing
- What your budget’s limits are
- What device you’re going to use to record the podcasts
- If you want the apps to have a quick learning curve or are willing to take the time to learn a feature-heavy app
- What the user reviews say in terms of usability and functionality for both the host and guest
Let’s get to the list of the best podcast software to try out! We’ve tested and ordered these so each tool will have a unique purpose or suit a separate type of user.
Audacity – your podcast recording best friend, for free
This is a common choice among podcasters thanks to its free plan that offers all the editing features you might need at the start. The open-source podcasting platform isn’t the most user-friendly one though but this is because of its complexity.
Core Audacity features you’ll find helpful include the Silence Finder that lets you split recordings into shorter tracks without manually deleting silence time or Synch-Lock Tracks for multitrack editing. The tool also comes with sound effects like echo or distortion so you can use it to later edit your audio for diverse purposes.
Podcast Recording Software For Mac
Platforms: Mac, Windows
Krisp – to maintain clear audio recordings
Ever dreamed of skipping post-recording audio tweaking? You can now simply record your podcasts or interviews with Krisp turned on and it will automatically block all background noises. The extra HD voice and room/acoustic echo removal features make for clear sounds — just like recording in a professional studio.
The noise-cancelling tool works with any third-party app that allows adding Krisp as the audio input. All you have to do next is cut your audio snippets, sync them, and you’re done.
Platforms: Mac, Windows
GarageBand – for that intro jam
If you have a Mac, you already have this music creation app installed on your device. The tool is free to use and actually has a mobile app (unlike Audacity) you can use to record sounds on the go.
Its main use is for creating music though. While not as extensive as a professional music production tool, GarageBand is perfect for first-time podcasters who need to record a memorable intro song, background jams, or create their own sound effects.
Platforms: Mac, iOS
Pocket Casts For Mac
Zencastr – user-friendly podcast recording
This podcast software takes literally no time to learn as its super intuitive interface makes it easy to understand what each feature does. This makes it the perfect choice if you want to invite multiple people to join the podcast recording.
There’s also a smart pop-up that lets you know if all sound and video checks have been done before you start recording. Both audio and video recording options are offered along with basic audio file editing options.
Platforms: Your Chrome or Firefox web browser
Auphonic – for advanced post-production sound editing
Not happy with Audacity’s editing capabilities? Bring your audio into Auphonic to balance the speaker level and restore audio. The tool is free to use for up to two hours but Auphonic is only designed for post-production.
If you need to keep your voice clear for live events or even during the actual podcast recording, you’ll need Krisp which works in real-time. So with Krisp you don’t need to do the extra step because you record clean audio as you go.
Platforms: Your browser
Hindenburg Journalist – record interviews even on the go
The Hindenburg Journalist is a podcast recording software that’s only a fit for beginners if you’re planning on using it to record interviews on the go. If you only need to record on the field, get the Hindenburg Field Recorder mobile app but keep in mind the cost for this is separate from the main Hindenburg Journalist product.
Most advanced features are part of the Pro version of the tool which provides automated sound levels and VoIP call recording. In fact, it’s the Pro plan that’s marketed as being better suited for podcasters thanks to its post-production capabilities of editing multiple tracks. This advanced product also supports online call recording from apps like Skype or FaceTime.
Platforms: Mac, Windows, iOS
Adobe Audition – podcast editing software you can also use for professional music creation
I specifically enjoyed how seamlessly the audio recording in Adobe Audition integrates with the editing options as you can literally edit as you record. You can design sound effects, sync different audio files, and clean up your recordings on these.
This is an Audacity and GarageBand alternative you might already have access to if you’ve purchased a full Creative Cloud subscription. This tool will be handier than other choices for people who also want to create videos for their podcasts or YouTube channel.
Platforms: Mac, Windows
Logic Pro X – for the Mac user who needs to produce that bop
Looking for an advanced version of GarageBand? Enter Logic Pro X. This audio-editing tool comes with all the nitty-gritty of sound. The interface is similar to the GarageBand one so you can move files from one tool to another and continue editing them.
Still, you might find the tool’s not exactly the best fit for podcasting since it’s so advanced. The sole use you’ll have from Logic Pro X is when recording intro and ad music or sound effects for your podcast. But, hey, at least you can get as creative as possible with them.
Platforms: Mac, iOS
Podcast App For Mac Computer
Riverside.fm – because you’ll need video too
Best Podcast App Mac
Riverside.fm acts as a common studio room where you can invite all of your podcasts guests and record audio independently. Provided both you and your guests have the right tech stack, you’ll be able to record 4K videos so you’ll no longer have to worry about the quality of the recording. But the handiest functionality is that it actually uploads the recording as you’re hosting the podcast. So once you’re done, downloading everything takes just a couple of seconds.
The Magic Editor feature takes you through a step-by-step editing option without the complicated interface. This editor also comes with basic options to filter background noise and equalize your audio — only available in post-production.
Platforms: In the web browser
Note:SquadCast and the Zencastr podcasting tool I already mentioned as alternatives. All of them are super intuitive and ensure that any guest will be able to seamlessly connect to the online recording studio with their devices in check.
Buzzsprout – because you’ll need hosting (and stats)
Often, the most complicated part of a podcaster’s life is actually knowing what to do with the final audio file. Buzzsprout helps you host your podcast and get it listed in your preferred directories. Let it do its job for a couple of weeks and you’ll end up with solid insights into what apps and devices listeners use or their demographic profile.
You know those podcast players that podcasts add in their blog posts? Yes, many of them are created using Buzzsprout so you can improve accessibility. Plus, there’s a built-in transcription integration you’ll surely find helpful if you want to provide a complete user experience, regardless of the platform.
Platforms: In the web browser
Bonus: Wavve – short audio snippets for social media
No listeners, no podcast. That’s why we’re adding Wavve as a must-have tool for promoting your podcast. I’m sure you’re already familiar with those Instagram posts you can play for a preview of an upcoming episode. That’s Wavve at its best.
Podcast Downloader Mac
This platform makes it easy for you to share an otherwise large audio file by breaking it into smaller chunks. And it’s super fun to use as you play with different templates and animations. If your listeners prefer distinct platforms, you can use the Wavve Link option to create one landing page with all possible link options for them to choose from.
Platforms: In the web browser
Back to you!
Now that we’ve gone over all of these options you probably have a rough idea of what you need. Want to handle multiple tracks and sync them easily? A single tool like Adobe Audition will do the trick. Need to connect with guests and maintain HD sounds? Pair Krisp with podcast software like Riverside.
What are your favorite podcast editing and recording software options? Are you using any podcast apps we haven’t reviewed yet?