It’s time to actually record and then edit your podcast. There are several great digital audio workstations (DAW) out there, and it's important that you find one that works for your needs and budget.
As of April 2022, Acast has teamed up with Podcastle to offer our users a free and easy-to-use service for recording and editing podcast episodes.
Podcastle is an AI-powered, collaborative audio creation platform that helps professional and amateur podcasters create, edit and distribute production-quality podcasts in seconds.
Features Include
Interview
Recording
Audio Editor
Transcription
and even more
For those looking for other options.
Entry Level
If you want to try your hands at podcasting, you can get started without spending a dime on recording and editing. Here are a few great options.
Audacity: Audacity is an open-source software that has proven to be a staple in the podcasting community for years. There are no paid versions for Audacity, so it will always be free of charge to users all over the world. Audacity can be used on Windows and Mac computers alike.
Garage Band: If you’re planning to record your podcast on a Mac, then your decision for recording and editing software just got a lot easier! Garage Band comes pre-installed on all macOS and iOS devices.
Mid-Level
If you’ve outgrown the free software or are coming into podcasting with a little experience under your belt, you may be interested in a more sophisticated editing experience.
Adobe Audition: Adobe Audition is one of the most popular platforms for recording and editing podcasts. With podcast-specific features, like podcast templates, it’s no surprise it’s a contender. Audition alone starts at $20 a month with discounts for students and options to bundle along with Adobe’s other software.
Alitu: Alitu is unique as it can serve as both a remote recording application, allowing for inbound call recordings, as well as a DAW with sleek in-app editing software that automatically cleans up audio files. You may upload your files into Alitu or record directly to build and edit your episode. This DAW hybrid is $32 a month and allows users free trial options ranging from 7 days to 2 months.
Professional
If you’re starting from a professional standpoint or have outgrown the above options, it may be time to explore a professional-grade DAW. While they do come with a hefty price tag, keep in mind that most of these softwares will have a free trial period!
Hindenburg: Hindenburg Journalist Pro was created specifically for voice recording in mind. This sets it apart from most of the other tools on this list as many of them were created originally for recording music and speech alike. While there are several pricing options, Hindenburg Journalist Pro, its most popular tool, is currently $375 for a one-time purchase.
Pro Tools: Pro Tools offers a plethora of advanced tools but is known for having a steep learning curve, so it’s not intended for podcasters who are just getting started. However, if you’re planning a career in podcasting, it could be worth the investment. We have discussed Pro Tools through a few platforms here at team Acast. While it may not be the most accessible program, once it’s mastered the sky is the limit. Pro Tools starts at $299 a year and can increase depending on your needs.
Please note: Acast does not officially endorse or recommend any of the platforms listed in this article. (Except Podcastle. Did you check them out yet?)