Investing in good-quality podcast software is one of the wisest decisions any podcaster can make. Digital audio tools can help you get your voice and message across to your audience more clearly. In turn, listeners can eventually become buyers.
In addition to cutting down editing time, the best podcast recording app should allow you to integrate your favorite plug-ins and customize your recording into the podcast you’ve always wanted.
To help you figure out the podcast software you need, here is a list of the top 6 options to consider.
1. Auphonic
Best Overall
Price: Free option, pricing plans start at $11 per month
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Both experienced and newbie podcasters will appreciate what Auphonic has to offer. Its automated audio enhancement features, coupled with its accessibility and incredibly affordable pricing structure, make it the overall best podcast recording app available.
The cross-platform software has an easy-to-use interface with plenty of embedded features designed to cut back editing time. Thanks to its AI-based algorithms, you don’t need to be a sound engineer to produce professional and high quality audio with this software.
Auphonic does not offer full control in terms of file editing, though, so podcasters with particular needs may not be satisfied with the automated software. However, this podcast app is an inexpensive choice and has a free option, which is great for podcasters looking to minimize cost while working on their podcast production.
Pros
- Web-based application
- User-friendly
- Monthly free upload hours
Cons
- Full features not available in the desktop version
- Advance features must be purchased separately
2. Audacity
Best Free Option
Price: Free
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
Audacity is a widely popular option among podcasters, especially users looking to produce their shows on a budget.
It is free software and comes with basic editing tools for easy audio recording and editing. The somewhat outdated interface of this podcast app might appear confusing, especially for beginner podcasters. But it is a great digital tool once you get the hang of it.
You can convert audio files into 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit digital recordings. Plus, it has plenty of easy-to-use features, such as a silence finder, sync-lock, and saveable EQ.
The software is updated regularly to work seamlessly across all major operating systems.
Pros
- Supports almost all audio file formats
- Rich library of audio files
- Free to use
Cons
- Outdated interface design
- Basic audio editing features
3. Reaper
Best for Windows
Price: 60-day free trial, $60 discounted license, $225 commercial license
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
Nothing beats Reaper when it comes to the most compatible option for Windows users. One of the major reasons for this rating is its compatibility with streaming platforms that are usually not supported by Windows. Besides, the software is also compatible with Mac and Linux.
Also, Reaper integrates with plenty of plug-ins, although doing so usually requires some technical knowledge.
You can import any MIDI and audio file into your project. You can also compose, mix, arrange, edit, sample, and do a lot more than podcasting.
The program is lightweight and more stable than many similar options. You have two full months to try the recording and editing tool, after which you can opt for a discounted or commercial license.
Pros
- Loads quickly and runs fast
- Affordable and offers great value
- Can run from a network or portable drive
Cons
- Does not have a mobile app
- Complex plug-in integration
4. Logic Pro
Best for Mac
Price: $199.99 with a 90-day free trial
Compatibility: Mac
Mac users looking to create professional podcasts will find the Logic Pro more suitable. The software is designed specifically for use on Apple devices.
The full-featured audio software has plenty of excellent features and functionalities geared toward music production. However, it is also an excellent audio editing tool suitable for creating awesome podcasts.
While it has advanced features, Logic Pro is easy to use, even for beginners. The interface design is simple and intuitive, and it works seamlessly with GarageBand – a free digital audio workstation (DAW) for Mac users.
Pros
- A wide selection of plug-ins
- Professional audio recording tools
- Mobile app available
Cons
- Only available on Mac devices
- Complex technical requirements
5. Adobe Audition
Best for Professionals
Price: $20.99 per month with a 30-day free trial
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Adobe Audition is no doubt the best podcast recording app for those with lots of podcasting experience.
The software allows users to have complete control of their projects. It is loaded with tons of advanced features to create pro-level recordings. Plus, it lets you create custom recording templates to make production quicker.
It is a pricier option, though, but the rich collection of features makes it worth the investment, especially for professionals.
Pros
- High-quality recording on over 32 tracks
- Custom hotkeys and templates
- Plenty of advanced features
Cons
- An expensive option
- Steep learning curve
6. Alitu
Best for Beginners
Price: $32 per month with a 7-day free trial
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
Alitu is a web-based app tailored to meet the needs of the complete novice podcaster. It is also a good choice for those who want an audio tool that automates most of the editing tasks while focusing on creating great content for each podcast episode.
The software makes it as easy as humanly possible for just about anyone to create podcasts. Even if you have zero podcasting experience, it shouldn’t be difficult to figure out how to use the tool on your own and produce a fantastic podcast episode.
It is arguably the best podcast recording app as far as beginner-friendly options go. Opting for Alitu gives you access to useful podcast courses.
Pros
- Easy to use and beginner-friendly
- Automated features
- Web-based podcast recording and podcast editing software
Cons
- Limited audio podcast recording
- Does not support manual audio clip settings
Wrapping Up
While there are plenty of options on the market, the best podcast recording app for you will depend a lot on your experience, the operating system on your device, and your preferences. Take these factors into consideration before you opt for any of the six options listed above.
