If you’re starting a podcast or looking to refresh your current setup, you need the right tools for success. Choosing the right podcast editing software can make a big difference to your show. But with so many choices out there, picking the best one for you can be tricky.
How To Choose Podcast Editing Software
Editing a podcast requires the use of a digital audio workstation (DAW). Each DAW is unique, and their functions may differ greatly. This includes tasks such as cutting tape, mixing tracks, and compressing audio.
When choosing, consider the following factors:
Price
Depending on your budget, consider free or open-source options and paid versions with more features and support.
Platform Compatibility
It is important to ensure that the podcast editing software is compatible with the platform you plan to use for recording and hosting your podcasts. This could include Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, etc., so make sure it will work properly before investing in any particular program.
Features
Different programs offer different features that suit certain podcasts better than others. Some standard tools include noise reduction filters, EQ settings, audio normalization/compression tools, special effects plugins, and more advanced automation capabilities like track mixing and mastering functions. Consider what type of production style best suits your podcasting needs before deciding what software would be most beneficial for you to use to achieve those goals efficiently and effectively.
File Storage
For a successful podcast, you will need to have a place to save your audio files. A good recording software should be able to store the raw recordings and edited versions on your computer. Additionally, it is beneficial for podcasts with multiple participants to look for DAWs with split-track recording capabilities so that each person’s audio can be saved in a separate file. This allows for easier editing and helps maintain consistency of sound quality between speakers.
Ease-of-use
When selecting a podcast editing software program, it must have an intuitive user interface so that new users can become comfortable quickly when learning how to edit their recordings without having to spend too much time on tutorials and other resources.
Customer Support
Try to find out whether the company offers customer support in case you have any issues with the program or need help understanding certain features. Many companies will provide tutorials, FAQs, video guides, and even live chat support that can be useful when getting started.
Our Top Picks For Best Podcast Editing Software
AlituAlitu is an easy and automated podcast editing platform designed for podcasters who want to produce professional-sounding episodes without learning audio editing. It is a podcast editing service designed to make creating and editing podcasts easier for beginners. The web-based application helps users record, edit, optimize, add music and transitions, and eventually publish podcasts to various platforms such as Buzzsprout, Podbean, Blubrry, or Libsyn with just a few clicks. It also includes a course on podcasting and helpful features like volume leveling and noise reduction. Although Alitu simplifies the podcast editing process, the audio quality differs from other commonly used software. The service offers a free seven-day trial and requires a monthly fee of $28 or $280 per year. |
AudacityAudacity is a free and open-source digital audio editing software that has become the standard for podcasters worldwide. It lets users record live audio, import sound files, and edit professionally. The platform’s powerful interface allows experienced audio engineers to add intros, outros, and advertisements to create high-quality podcasts. For years, it has remained free due to its open-sourcing process, which makes collaboration easier among people from different parts of the globe who have contributed code or fixed any glitches with this program. Audacity is easy enough for beginners but robust enough for professionals making it an ideal solution for anyone looking to produce quality podcasts on a budget. |
Adobe AuditionAdobe Audition is a professional-level audio production software that allows users to create and mix high-quality audio recordings and productions. It features powerful recording capabilities, multiple editing tools, and pre-made templates for faster workflows, giving users complete control over their projects. With Adobe Audition’s intuitive interface and easy integration with other apps in the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, it’s perfect for experienced professionals and those just starting. Whether you need to record an interview or put together a multi-track podcast with music and sound effects, Adobe Audition can help you get the job done quickly and effectively. |
GarageBandGarageBand is an all-in-one music and podcast editing software developed by Apple. It offers a suite of digital instruments, sound effects, and editing tools to make creating and producing music tracks and podcasts more manageable than ever. The user interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to learn for first-time users. GarageBand’s convenience lies in the fact that it comes preinstalled on most Mac computers. So if you own a Mac, you already have access to this powerful software at no extra cost! Additionally, any projects saved on your computer will sync across your other Apple devices, allowing you to work on them wherever you are. |
DescriptDescript is a podcast editing software that simplifies the process of creating and editing audio files. It boasts an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, allowing users with little or no experience in audio editing to learn the basics quickly. Descript provides features such as transcription of audio clips, text-to-video editor, simplified workflow, and support for multiple file formats. They provide a free version with limited features and several paid plans beginning at $12 per month. For those unfamiliar with podcasting, this is an easy way to get started. However, there may be better options for those who are accustomed to traditional programs. |
ReaperReaper is a powerful digital audio production application running a desktop program on Macs and PCs. It provides users with all the tools necessary for recording, mixing, and mastering audio files in various formats and integrating external hardware into their recording sessions. Reaper offers a discounted license of $60 (otherwise priced at $225), making it an attractive option for those who need to produce podcast-quality recordings without breaking the bank. |
Logic ProLogic Pro X is an industry-leading digital audio workstation (DAW) for music production and podcast creation. It provides a comprehensive set of tools to record, edit, mix, and master audio with professional sound quality. Logic Pro’s wide range of features includes powerful plugins for effects processing, recording loops into cells directly, and customizing plugin hierarchies through its plugin manager. For those already familiar with Apple’s GarageBand software, Logic Pro shares many similarities, making the transition easy. If you are looking for a versatile tool that works seamlessly, whether producing music or podcasts, then Logic Pro X will not disappoint. |
Hindenburg JournalistHindenburg Systems is a software suite designed for radio and spoken audio production. It features specialized tools tailored to the needs of podcasters, such as an auto-leveling function to even out sound between speakers or headphones. Plus, an automatic voice profiler that uses EQ and compression to optimize speech. The Journalist Pro version has a built-in Skype recorder and a one-click publish feature for convenience. For $100, you can have lifetime access to software tailored for professionals in fields such as journalism and interviewing. Hindenburg offers a free 30-day trial so users can try its features before deciding if it’s right for them. |
AuphonicAuphonic is a post-production software editing tool designed to help podcast creators upgrade their audio files. It offers users the ability to reduce background noise, track leveling, and restore volume with its speech recognition algorithm that accurately detects and separates multiple voice formats. Auphonic also provides recording transcription services and has free and paid versions depending on the user’s needs. The free version allows up to two hours of audio per month, while nine hours cost $11. |
ProToolsPro Tools is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by Avid Technology. It is the industry standard for the professional recording and production of music, podcasts, sound for film and television, and other forms of audio content. Pro Tools provides podcasters with all the tools they need to create podcast episodes from start to finish in one place. It has an intuitive user interface and powerful features, including multi-track editing, mixing capabilities, plugin support, collaboration via cloud technology, control surfaces integration, and more. Although it comes at a premium price point, its reputation among professionals speaks volumes – making Pro Tool one of the leading choices for podcast editing programs today. |
Deciding On the Best Podcast Editing Software
When selecting the right podcasting software for your needs, it is vital to consider the unique features of each option. Be sure to review the editing tools we have listed here. Different programs offer different benefits, so select one that meets your needs. What do you want to achieve with your podcast? How much are you willing to invest?
Once you choose software with all the features and capabilities necessary for creating your perfect podcast, you can start recording!