The 15 Best Podcast Recording Software in 2023 (Mac & PC)

What do you Need to Start a Podcast Recording?

There’s no need for a fancy expensive studio to start a podcast. With a few affordable equipment items, you can be ready to record in no time. If you’re a beginner just starting a podcast we recommend at least investing in a microphone and good podcast recording software. Other than that, a camera is important if you’re considering recording a video podcast. 

Podcast Microphone

A microphone is probably the most important equipment you need for recording a podcast. After all, your podcast should always sound crisp and clear.

Fortunately, there are many podcast microphones you can choose from. When choosing a microphone, we recommend thinking about the type of connection cable you’ll need and the type of environment you’re recording in. For example, condenser microphones are generally better for quiet environments, whereas dynamic microphones are better if you don’t want to capture unwanted background noise.

Read our podcast microphone guide, to help you choose the best option for your podcast recording setup.

Camera 

If you’re recording a video podcast, you’ll need a camera. While you might be tempted to use any built-in desktop camera, we highly recommend you invest in something that can at least record in HD. You can choose between a DSLR, webcam, or even a cam recorder. Head over to our recommendations of the best podcast cameras to find the right one. 

Headphones

Headphones aren’t absolutely essential, but they make it a lot easier to monitor sound while recording. This is because headphones let you clearly hear what’s going on but they also protect you from picking up echoing sound from a speaker. 

Technically, you can use any headphones but we’ve got a list of the 10 best headphones to maximize your recording experience.

Recording software

Finally, you need recording software or a digital audio workstation(DAW) to capture everything directly onto your computer. There’s recording software available for all your needs. Some software is purely for recording audio, and others capture both audio and video. You can even find software specifically built for recording recording remote interviews.

Read on to discover what you should look out for and what platforms are widely recommended for podcast recording.

What to Consider when Choosing Podcast Recording Software

When you’re launching or running a podcast, you’ve got a lot to consider – the format, the guests, and more. At the same time, your tech is not something you should overlook or underestimate. The podcast recording software you decide on today will have a long-lasting impact. To call it right, you need to dig down into what you want your podcast to sound like now and in the future.

With this in mind, watch the video below and read on for some features to consider when choosing the best recording software for you.

Recording quality

The number one aspect you’ll want to consider is the recording quality of your podcast software. To record a professional podcast, you’ll want crystal clear sound (and video). We recommend choosing software that records in at least 44.1 kHz audio resolution, but if you can, aim for 48 kHz for the best results. If you’re using video podcast recording software, don’t settle for anything less than 720p HD but we suggest 1080p or 4K for impressive video podcast recording quality. It’s also worth looking out for local recording software. With this software, everything is recorded directly on your device and ensures your internet connection will not ruin your recordings’ resolution. 

Editing features

As much as you’re looking for podcast software that records in high-quality, it helps to find software that also has some editing capabilities. This is especially useful if you’re a beginner, but in general, it helps streamline production without having to jump between different apps. Some software have tools for easily removing unwanted sections, adding in an intro and outro, or even easily branding your show.

If you choose to do more advanced editing, it’s a good idea to choose recording software that offers separate audio and video tracks as this gives you more editing flexibility.

Compatibility

You’ll want to make sure the software you’re using is not only compatible with your PC’s operating system, but also with the podcast equipment you’re using. This can include your microphone, camera, or other recording devices. 

Price

Even with a budget, you can afford top-quality podcasting software for recording. If you’re a beginner it might be better to try software for free and then decide based on your experience what might be best to invest in. Either way, there’s podcast recording software available for all budgets. 

Ease of use

You might think the more features and tools a platform has, the better it is. This isn’t always the case. Will you use all the expensive tools you’re paying for? Or would you prefer simplicity to focus on your content?

Overall, you should choose software that’s accessible and easy to use, especially if you’re new to podcasting. 

Support

Although this isn’t part of the actual software, the type of support you receive is important too. If you have any glitches or issues with recording, you’ll want to know that you can get help as soon as you need it.

The 15 Best Podcast Recording Software For Windows & macOS (Free & Paid)

1. Riverside

Riverside is ideal podcasting software for recording remotely as you can invite up to 7 guests to join your podcast show no matter where they are. Record 4K video and uncompressed 48kHz audio without worrying about internet issues ruining your quality. With local recording, everything is captured directly on your device– so crackly internet connections, lags, and unwanted noise won’t get in the way of your podcast recording.

The platform has an intuitive interface and offers automated editing tools for all levels. With Riverside’s Editor you can fine-tune your audio, customize your podcast and use the Clip creator to repurpose your show into short shareable content. You can also record separate audio and video tracks for each participant. This gives you more post-production control and the freedom to create a video and audio-only podcast individually. 

Riverside is more than just a podcast recording platform. With its editing tools, automated podcast transcriptions, live streaming capabilities, and easy distribution to platforms like Spotify you’re set to podcast effortlessly.

Price: Free and Paid plans. Subscriptions start at $15 per month 

Compatibility: Browser based for Mac, Windows devices, with a mobile podcasting app for Android & iOS 

Key features

• High-resolution remote local recording 
• WAV or MP3 audio recordings at up to 16 bit 48 kHz 
• MP4 constant frame rate video recordings at up to 4K resolution
• Separate audio and video tracks for each participant
• Up to 8 participants in one recording session
• Editor for easy fine-tuning and customizations
• Clip creator so you can quickly repurpose your podcast into short shareable content for social media
• Media Board for adding sound effects live 
• Producer Mode where producers can control settings behind the scenes without being recorded
• Mobile podcast recording app for iOS, iPad, and Android so you can record on the go
• Live streaming and live call-ins for engaging podcasts in real-time
• Automatic podcast transcriptions to create subtitles or captions without the hassle
• Anchor integration with seamless distribution to Spotify and other platforms
• Shared production space for Enterprise users‍
• Screen sharing recording tools to show your screen, desktop or a browser tab

Pros

• Reliable high-quality video recordings at up to 4K resolution
• Streamlined recording and editing on one podcast software
• Local recording and progressive uploading keep recordings safe from internet issues getting in the way
• More post-production control with separate tracks
• Efficient and friendly technical support

Cons

• Doesn’t offer advanced features for editing

Riverside is a user-friendly platform providing local audio and video recordings of the highest quality. But we understand if you don’t want to just take our word for it, start with our free plan, no credit card required!

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2. Audacity

If you’re looking for free podcast recording software, Audacity is a good start. This free, open-source platform offers basic recording and editing features accessible on all desktop devices. That being said, its interface can look a little outdated and is a little complicated to navigate but it’s not a bad platform to try recording an audio podcast for free.

Audacity is flexible with different file formats but is suited only for audio recordings. If you’re recording a video podcast, you’ll have to try other recording software for your podcast. 

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and Mac devices

Key features

• Simple interface
• Records at up to 32-bit, 44.1 kHz 
• Effects and Editing tools: Noise reduction, amplifier, adjustable fading effects, and more
• Spectrogram and Plot Spectrum view for working with and analyzing audio frequencies

Pros

• Completely free and accessible on all desktops
• Audio editing software with an impressive variety of tools

Cons

• Does not offer live call or email support
• Has a bit of a learning curve
• You cannot record with guests remotely directly on the software
  

3. Adobe Audition

Just like Audacity, Adobe Audition is a recording and editing software you can use for podcasting. The difference is that Adobe's platform has more tools on offer and comes at a much higher price. 

Adobe Audition is better for those who already have some experience with audio editing, although it does offer useful recording templates which make the process simpler. You can record separate tracks and add various sound effects or choose from a wide array of royalty-free music for your podcast. This recording software is part of the Adobe suite and has easy integration for those wanting to create video podcasts with Premiere Pro. 

While Audition is a great option for high-quality audio recordings, it doesn’t offer built-in remote recording software features.

Price: Paid plan starts at $20.99 per month, or you can test out with the free trial.

Compatibility: Mac and Windows desktops

Key features

• Live monitoring as you record
• Templates for recording and editing
• Royalty-free music and effects library
• Editing tools for audio mixing, eliminating white noise, and more
• Multitrack recording

Pros

• Advanced editing tools to polish your podcast
• Easy integration with Premiere Pro
• Recording templates can save you time

Cons

• Not the most affordable option
• Can be intimidating for beginners

4. Hindenburg Journalist

Although Hindenburg Journalist was invented by a radio journalist, it’s still ideal as podcast creator software. You can record multiple tracks, making it great for interviews and there is even the option to record remotely with guests through a Skype integration. Though note that this integration still depends on internet connection for audio quality as these Skype calls take place over the internet. 

Hindenburg offers a fair selection of editing features including tools for noise reduction, sound effects, and audio trimming. Overall, Hindenburg is a great-quality recorder, but if you’re dependent on recording your podcasts remotely, a different platform might be better.

 Price: Paid software, with Hindenburg LITE, the most basic package at $99 once off, whereas Hindenburg Pro is $399.

Compatibility: Mac and Windows devices

Key features

• Automatic audio level tool which optimizes your recording’s sound levels
• Basic effects including an equalizer and compressor
• Clipboard tool for easier management

Pros

• Easy plug and play set up
• Includes plugins for remote recording and additional audio effects
• Easy publishing to podcast hosting platforms such as Podbean and Buzsprout.

Cons

• Can be a little pricey (but this is a once-off cost)
• Remote recording quality relies on your internet connection

5. Anchor

Although Anchor is known as a podcast hosting platform, the Spotify-owned service is also a podcast recorder. You can record different audio segments directly on the browser-based recording software or through Anchor’s mobile podcast recording app. It’s also possible to record with guests remotely using the Record With Friends feature on the same mobile app. If you’d like to add additional recordings, you also upload pre-recorded files to combine with your Anchor recordings.

Where Anchor falls a little short is its editing features. The podcast creation software only offers basic editing tools for splitting segments or adding in transitions. You can, however, flag parts while recording which could help you assess what points you want to edit later on. 

Price: Anchor is absolutely free. 

Compatibility: Browser-based on Mac and Windows desktops, or you can download the app on iPhone and Android mobile devices 

Key features

• Record With Friends feature for online remote recording with up to 5 guests
• Easy episode building from recorded segments
• Sponsorsored segments to add in adverts or sponsored material (US only)
• Riverside integration for recording video podcasts 
• Integration with Spotify music to combine tracks to your podcast episodes

Pros

• Recording and distribution services on one podcast software
• Easy to use episode builder
• Completely free and does not require downloading anything
• Mobile app for podcasting on the go

Cons

• Limited editing tools
• Can only record segments of up to 30 minutes on Chrome and 5 minutes on Safari. (But you can record an unlimited amount of segments)

6. RINGR

RINGR is a remote recording platform available online or through its mobile podcast recording app. It offers a simple recording process with little editing on the user’s end. All you need to do is schedule a call, start recording and once you’re done, yours and your guests' recordings should upload to the cloud. Here, Ringr automatically synchronizes and merges your separate audio tracks into one polished recording for you to download. 

Price: Free and paid plans. Basic plan starts at $7.99 per month and the premium at $189.99 per month.

Compatibility: Browser-based on both Mac and Windows PCs with a mobile app on Android and iPhone devices.

Key features

• Conference calling for calls with more than 4 participants
• Split track recordings (for Premium members)
• Up to 48kHz audio recordings (for Premium members)
• Enterprise dashboard for enterprise users

Pros

• Unlimited storage and recording time
• Available on all devices

Cons

• The basic plan offers very limited features and you can only record audio at up to 22kHz on it
• There isn’t much control when it comes to editing your recordings

7. Auphonic

Auphonic is an automated editing software online. All you need to do to use the platform is upload your audio recording, select what kind of editing you’d like to get done, and then Auphonic processes your audio with the editing filters or features you selected. The downfall with Auphonic is that you can’t record audio directly on the desktop app and it’s not a full-round editing software. It’s more for small adjustments such as background noise removal, audio leveling, and audio normalization. 

While you can’t record on Auphonic via desktop, the platform does offer a simple recording and editing mobile app called Auphonic Edit. This podcast recording app is available on both Android and iPhone and includes a basic recorder that allows you to mark off points and capture uncompressed audio at up to 48 kHz. 

Overall, if you’re okay with recording via your phone, then Auphonic could be a reasonable podcast recording software option for you.

Price: Free and Paid. You can edit up to 2 hours for free per month, or try one of the paid options starting at $11 for 9 hours of editing/month.

Compatibility: Recording capabilities are only available on Android and iPhone mobile devices and not on desktops.

Key features

• Adaptive leveler that evens out your different audio inputs 
• Automatic noise and hum reduction as well as an adaptive noise gate feature to cancel out unwanted sounds and background noise
• Speech recognition for automatic transcription in up to 80 languages
• Cross gate removal (to stop sound spilling between tracks in a multitrack recording) 

Pros

• Easy distribution to popular platforms straight after editing
• Everything is automatic making the platform accessible for beginners
• Mobile apps for high-quality audio recordings

Cons

• Can’t record on the desktop recording app
• Limited editing control

8. Reaper

If you’re looking for podcast software that’s both affordable and extensive, Reaper is a good place to start. Reaper is both a recording and editing podcast app that doesn’t break your bank. You can record with multiple inputs simultaneously, and when it comes to editing, the platform has a lot more to offer than simple trimming and cutting tools. It offers features such as editing templates and many audio effects. It's also worth mentioning that the platform supports over 200 plug-ins that can enhance your sound. 

While it’s predominantly a podcast audio editor and recorder, there is a simple video editor which could be ideal for video podcast recordings as well. This software can take a bit of time to learn, but you can download their free guide to help you navigate its interface.

Price: Paid and costs a once-off fee of $60 for a discounted license and $225 for a commercial license.

Compatibility: Mac, Windows, and Linux.

Key features

• Multitrack recording
• 200+ plug-ins you can add to enhance your sound
• Track templates for consistent settings when recording 
• Customizable workboards and layouts

Pros

• Doesn’t record locally so recording quality is vulnerable to your internet connection’s stability
• Unlimited number of input channels for multitrack recordings
• Plenty of plug-ins you can use
• Relatively affordable for what you’re getting

Cons

• Big learning curve, especially if you’re a beginner
• A lot of the tools might be unnecessary for what you need

9. Zencastr

Like Riverside, Zencastr is a browser-based service that records podcasters remotely using their local microphones. Each participant's audio is recorded in lossless WAV or MP3 files, whereas video is captured at up to 4K resolution.  It’s worth noting though, that 4K resolution is only available on their Growth plan starting at $49/month. This was also only recently released with a group of new features, making it difficult to assess the reliability.

All recordings are automatically saved in the host’s computer and the cloud. This means that the recording quality should be high. However, you’ll find several stories online about conversation recordings going out of sync and about technical glitches in the recording process.

Other new features the platform recently launched include hosting and monetization tools. Many of these features are limited on the free plan and you won’t get the same quality. Rather than WAV, expect MP3 files and only up to 1 hour of post-production credits. This also means the platform is now less recording-focused which sometimes can affect quality.

Price: Free limited option with paid plans which ranging from $20/month to $299.

Compatibility: Windows and Mac devices. 

Key features

• Remote podcast recording at up to 4K video and 48 kHz audio
• Podcast hosting and distribution
• Monetization and analytics tools
• Live editing soundboard
• Footnotes to mark points as recording
• Editing tools include noise and hum reduction, and audio normalization among other audio enhancements  
• Google & Dropbox cloud storage integration

Pros

• Everything is recorded locally so no internet connection interferes with recording quality
• Comes with automated editing tools
• Video and audio recording and hosting

Cons

• You might have to pay extra for post-production tools
• No mobile-based podcast recording app or support
• No longer recording-focused

10. ‍Squadcast

Although one of the newer names on the podcast recording block, Squadcast offers various features. Squadcast is a browser-based recording software – just like Riverside and Zencastr – and it aims to make participating in podcasts easy. Guests just need to click a link, and a virtual green room allows them to get into the zone before going live. Initially, Squadcast outdid Zencastr due to its video recording abilities. Now, the two are rather different. While Zencastr offers hosting and monetization tools, Sqaudcast is recording-focused. 

All of Squadcast's plans offer WAV audio files but as of now, Squadcast does not offer livestreaming or audience features. It only allows up to 10 recorded participants on the higher-tier plans, and the lower plans allow up to 5. It also isn’t fully supported on mobile devices like iOS and Android. While Squadcast has Safari compatibility for iPhones in beta, it is purely web-based and has no specialized mobile app. You should also be aware that Squadcast comes at a high price.

Price: Paid plans ranging from $10/month for 5 hours of audio recording. Or podcast video recording plans start at $40 up to $80/month.

Compatibility: Browser-based podcast recorde available on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

Key features

• Up to 5 participants per recording session on lower-end plans and up to 10 participants on higher-end plans
• High-quality remote recording at up to 48kHz uncompressed WAV audio and 1080HD video
• Separate track recording
• Integrations via Zapier
• Dolby integration for enhanced audio recording

Pros

• Local recording ensures quality is not affected by your internet connection
• 24-hour support available
• Easy to use and set up for guests
• Integrations to improve your recording experience

Cons

• Rather expensive for what it’s offering
• Only allows 5 participants in a recording session, unless you pay a minimum of $40 per month
• No mobile recording app available
• No podcast soundboard or live effects
• Doesn’t offer in-app editing tools

11. Garage Band

Garage Band is Apple’s free choice for audio editing. It’s particularly focused on music production, but it could be a good option for beginner podcasters who don’t want to invest in specialized software yet. It’s fairly easy to use and offers simple audio recording and editing tools for your podcast needs. You can add effects from the software’s sound library but you can also equalize and compress your audio easily. The software, additionally, allows for various plug-ins to improve your recording experience.

A bonus to this software is that you can download an iOS app to record and edit on the go. 

 Price: Free

Compatibility: Only compatible with Mac and iOS devices.

Key features

• Smart controls and audio mixing to adjust audio levels, effects, and more
• iOS app for recording on the go

Pros

• Completely free
• Easy to use with its simple interface
• Access to a large sound library for audio effects

Cons

• Limited tools as it’s not created for podcasting
• No remote recording capabilities

12. Logic Pro

If you’re a Mac user and have tried your hand at Garage Band, then this is the software to transition to if you’re looking for something a little more advanced. Keep in mind, though, that just like Garage Band, Logic Pro is more focused on music-related recording and editing. Either way, it is a suitable option for podcast recording as well. It has a Dolby Atmos integration for enhanced sound and offers a large sound library for adding effects to your podcast recordings. Besides this, the platform has typical production tools just like Garage Band, including a noise equalizer and audio compression.

This all does come at a bit of a price though, and this might not be worth it if you’re only planning to use the software only for podcast recording and editing.

Price: Once-off cost of $199.99.

Compatibility: Only available to Mac users. 

Key features

• Royalty-free sound effects and sound library
• Automated producer tools for noise equalization, pitch adjustment, and more.
• Logic Remote app so you can control your audio recording directly from your iPhone
• Support for up to 192kHz audio recordings

Pros

• Great for professional and high-quality recordings with its Dolby integration and high-resolution

Cons

• More focused on music recording and editing than podcasts
• Doesn’t offer any remote recording options

13. Zoom

One of the biggest tech names of 2020-2021, no brand represents the idea of socially distant working like Zoom. Yet, you may be surprised to see it here. Zoom wasn’t designed as a podcast recording software. Rather, as a video calling service, the voice-recording feature has been a convenient afterthought.

Despite this, Zoom is frequently used as a platform for recording podcasts. And it gets most of its appeal because it is familiar to use, affordable, and able to record both video and audio.

Yet, anyone who has had a Zoom call knows that the audio is not reliably high quality. Given that recordings are saved as MP4 video files and M4A audio, you may well find that the sound that eventually reaches your listeners’ ears is below their expectations.

On top of this, files are converted and saved only after your Zoom meeting has finished. Compared to the progressive uploading offered by Riverside, this makes lost files a real risk – unless you’re taking a backup recording simultaneously. However, this would defeat the point of using Zoom at all.

Price: Free plan which only offers 40 minutes of recording if there's over 2 guests. Paid plans start at $149.90 per year and go up to $240 for large enterprises. 

Compatibility: Mac and Windows PCs.

Key features

• Up to 100 participants in one recording
• Up to 1080p online recording resolution
• Screen sharing and whiteboard tool
• Transcriptions are available 
• Cloud storage

Pros

• People are familiar with the platform and its simple interface
• Offers a Premier Support add-on for faster support service

Cons

• Recording quality relies on your internet connection
• Can only record separate audio tracks and not separate video tracks
• Isn’t created with podcasting in mind
• Files are compressed which reduces their quality
• No option for separate video tracks for each participant

Related article: How to Make a Zoom Podcast (And Other Alternatives to Consider)

14. Skype

Once the undisputed leader of online video chat, Skype has since lost its crown. However, thanks to its ubiquity across devices and people’s familiarity with how it works, Skype is still a popular option. And this is particularly appealing among podcasters who want to give remote guests a simple interface.

Like Zoom, Skype does offer video recording. Yet,  unlike Riverside and other remote recording podcast software, this doesn’t happen locally – and even if you only want the audio, you’ll get the video nonetheless. This means that sound has to pass through an internet line from where it was spoken, coming out with subpar audio files.

Regardless, Skype is free and widely used, and it is user-friendly. All you have to do is click record. As a result, it could be a suitable option if you're just starting to experiment with podcast episodes.

Price (Free): Free if both parties are on Skype

Compatibility: You can download Skype on both Windows and Mac desktops as well as on Android and iPhone devices.

Key features

• Up to 100 participants in one recording session
• Background blur so subjects are in focus
• Interactive tools such as screen share and a chatbox
• MP4 recordings at up to 1080HD video resolution

Pros

• A familiar platform for guests to use
• You can record with many participants at once

Cons

• The quality of your recordings relies on your internet connection
• Your recordings are only available to download for 30 days and are not securely stored on the platform permanently
• Compressed and unreliable audio recordings
• No option to record separate audio and video tracks, unless you use additional software

Related article: Riverside.fm: A Skype Alternative for Podcasting

15. Quick Time

QuickTime is Apple’s in-built video recording and editing software. It’s completely free and is great for beginners who don’t want complicated tools and features. It allows you to record your webcam, audio, and screen but also comes with simple video editing tools for trimming and adjusting your video into clips. 

Price: Free.

Compatibility: Mac-built in software, but available to download on Windows 7 or Windows Vista. Note that Apple no longer support QuickTime for Windows.

Key features

• Video, audio, and screen recording
• Simple video editing and trimming
• Mobile recording app for iPhone

Pros

• Easy to use and record
• No additional downloads 
• Completely free

Cons

• Limited tools for both recording and editing
• Not an ideal option if you’re looking to record high-end podcasts
• No remote recording capabilities

Extra Podcasting Tools for Recording

While recording and editing make up your primary focus in podcast creation, this isn’t the only type of software you may need for your podcast. Other software you may need to look into includes hosting platforms, transcription software, and maybe even scheduling tools. 

We’ve rounded up some of your best choices to help you out.

Book Like A Boss

• Pricing: starting at $7.50/month
• Type: Scheduling software

Unlike other scheduling software, Book Like A Boss offers a wide range of customization options. You can add several blocks to your booking page, including YouTube videos, photos, and FAQs, which creates a more personalized and professional experience.

Calendly 

• Pricing: Free or plans starting at $8/month
• Type: Scheduling software 

With automatic time-zone detection and easy integration to your calendar app, Calendly is a good option for scheduling software. You can create a single event or at a cost book multiple events at once.

Buzzsprout 

• Pricing: Free or plans start at $12/month
• Type: Podcast hosting software

This is one of the most popular podcast hosting services that can push your podcast to top podcast directories, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. It provides advanced metrics, an in-built transcription feature, and an affiliate marketplace to help you monetize your podcast.

Captivate 

• Pricing: Starting at $17/month
• Type:  Podcast hosting software

With a “One-Click Sponsor” kit and a “Calls to Action” feature, Captivate is all about growing your podcast. The platform has an intuitive interface and offers WordPress integration or the ability to create your own podcast website with 3 fully responsive, very customizable templates. Pricing: Plans from $17/month

Squarespace 

• Pricing: Plans from $12/month
• Type: Podcast website creator

Host your podcast directly on your own website and choose from different customizable templates to suit your needs. All the plans offer unlimited storage space and bandwidth, too, so you won’t have to worry about switching to another provider once your podcast gains traction.

Wix 

• Pricing: Free or plans start at $18
• Type: Podcast website maker

You can use the Wix Podcast Player app to embed your episodes onto your Wix website. The platform offers specialized features, like easy monetization and detailed analytics. With its intuitive UI, seamless episode streaming, and impressive listener engagement series, your website will be impressive and professional.

Podbean 

• Pricing: Free or plans start at $9/month
• Type: Podcast host and live streaming platform

Although a podcast host, Podbean offers a live streaming feature worth trying out. It has royalty-free sound effects and you can invite up to 8 guests to join your stream through the Podbean app. 

Riverside Transcription & Live Streaming

• Pricing: Free or plans starting at $15/month
• Type: Remote video podcast software with live streaming and transcription features

We’ve already covered Riverside in detail. Although, it’s worth mentioning Riverside’s live streaming feature where you can invite up to 1000 audience members to join you directly on Riverside. Audience members can even call in live to be a part of your podcast show. You can also multicast your stream to popular platforms including YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and/or Twitch, significantly extending the reach of your broadcast.

If you’re also looking for transcription, Riverside offers automated podcast transcription. You get unlimited transcriptions with the Pro and Enterprise plan.

Want to give it a go yourself? Start podcasting seamlessly on Riverside.

‍Rev.com

• ‍Pricing: $1.25/min for human transcription, $0.25/min for AI‍
• Type: Transcription software

‍With Rev, you can either transcribe your podcast automatically within a few minutes or go for human transcription which takes around 12 hours.  Human transcription is likely to be more accurate but it depends on how fast you need a transcription.

Scribie

• Pricing: $0.10/min fully automated, $0.80/min with a human editor
• Type: Transcription software

‍Scribie operates on a pay-as-you-go system, and you choose between fully automated transcription or automated with a human editor. It’s an extra fifty cents for poor, noisy audio and/or “accented speakers.”  

What program is best to record your podcast on?

Different podcast programs are suited for different needs. Go over our list of the top 15 podcast recording software platforms and find what’s best suited to your podcast. It might help you to consider what it’s most important to you. We’ll share some options based on different needs:

Best podcast recording software for remote recording

You’ll want remote podcast software that allows you to invite guests in different locations, but also keeps your resolution quality high no matter where you record from. There are a few options you can choose to do this, but we suggest Riverside as the best way to record a podcast remotely. With local recording, professional high-resolution, and easy guest invites, you’re set. If you’d like to try Riverside for yourself, you can easily sign up for free.

Best all-in-one podcast software for recording and editing

Is editing one of your biggest priorities? 

While high-quality recordings can cut down on editing time, it could still be worth investing in software that allows you to maximize on post-production. If you’re only recording audio, we suggest trying Adobe Audition. This platform offers multitrack recording and has a wide variety of tools for audio mixing, eliminating white noise, and fine-tuning your recordings. It also integrates with Premiere if you’re going the video podcast route.

Related article:  Podcast Editing Software: Which One To Choose In 2023

Best free podcast recording software

Podcast recording software can definitely cost a lot, but it doesn’t have to. Especially if you’re a beginner, it might be better to choose free podcast software before investing in something more serious. Fortunately, a lot of software comes with free versions or plans and it’s worth checking these out. For example, you can try Riverside’s free plan, or you can try fully free podcast software like Audacity.

Best podcast recording software for Mac

Considering Riverside is a browser-based app you can use it on both Mac and Windows PCs. Other software that specifically caters for Mac users includes GarageBand and Logic Pro.

Best podcast recording software for Windows PCs

Other than GarageBand, QuickTime, and Logic Pro, you can use any of the above software on your Windows PC. You try Zoom, Riverside, Adobe Audition, and more.

Best podcast recording app for mobile phones

If you’re recording on the go, it might be best to have the ability to record directly on your phone. While there are many podcast recording apps, they all serve different purposes. Riverside, Auphonic, and Anchor are some of the options that cater to mobile podcast recordings.

Summary: Choosing a Podcast Recording Software

With so many podcast recording software options available, the choice can only be yours. Our biggest recommendation is to consider your recording needs before choosing your podcast software. After that, look at your budget and make a decision on the platform that suits you best. We’ll definitely say though, that Riverside is an all-round-option, especially if you’re recording your podcasts remotely.

Now that you know which podcast software to choose, it's time to start recording. Or you can first read more about remote podcasting.

FAQs on Podcast Recording Software

Is there free software that you can use to record your podcast?

Yes! There are plenty of options for recording your podcast for free. Some podcast software includes free plans, whereas others are completely free. You can try out:

• Anchor
• Riverside
• Audacity
• Zoom

What should I use to record and edit a podcast?

You’ll need to use podcast software for recording and editing a podcast. Some software, like Riverside, include both recording and editing capabilities whereas others only record or only edit. From our list of podcast recording software above, the following are some good options for both recording and editing:

• Riverside
• Audacity
• Adobe Audition
• Hindenburg Journalist

Can I record a podcast on my computer?

You can definitely record a podcast on your computer. As mentioned at the beginning of this post, you’ll just need a microphone, headphones, and high-quality recording software. With the right podcast software you can skip the need for an audio mixer or interface and record directly via your computer. 

There are also some podcast recording apps if you’d rather record from your phone than with your desktop.

How do I record just the audio of a podcast?

With the right audio recording podcast software, you can easily record just the audio of a podcast. Most video podcast platforms also cater for audio recording. 

If you’re using Riverside as your podcast audio recording software there are two ways you can create an audio-only show. You can either create an

1. Create an audio-only podcast studio

To do this, simply go to you dashboard and click ‘+ New Studio’ and then after typing in your studio title, select ‘Audio Only’. 

If you want to use an existing studio, go to its settings and under the ‘Recordings’ section, you’ll find a toggle to ‘Record only audio’. Switch this on and then you’ll only be recording the audio of your podcast. 

2. Record video and audio in separate tracks

The great thing about Riverside is that even if you record audio and video, you’re able to download all files in separate tracks for each participant. Your audio recordings files are also separate from your video files. 

All you have to do in this case is record your audio and video as usual, and then when viewing your recordings, download your audio-only tracks.

Is Audacity or GarageBand better for podcast?

Audacity and Garageband each have their different strengths and weaknesses. We suggest you read over our Audacity and GarageBand guide to find out which is better-suited for your podcast.