Getting Started: Podcast Software

Essential recording software

Alternatives to DAWs

Since DAWs — Digital Audio Workstations — are optimised for producing music; they are often very technical for podcasters, and they are packed with features which can make them daunting at first. Don’t be alarmed, though, read on to hear about dedicated podcast software that alleviates the technical learning curve of DAWs.

Hindenburg

From podcasting to radio and audiobook production, Hindenburg has all the tools you need to easily record, edit and publish professional audio without the technical hassle.

Traditional audio editors are great for music, but aren’t designed for storytelling. Hindenburg’s easy-to-learn tools simplify and automate your spoken-word workflow, so you can concentrate on your stories and never have to worry about levels, EQ, or delivery specs.

DAWs

DAWs are traditionally made for recording music; however, they can be used to record podcasts. Some of the more popular DAWs with recording podcasts in mind include: Logic Pro, Audacity, and GarageBand. Since they are designed primarily for music production, they have a wealth of effects to help with getting polished audio, such as compression and EQs. A lot of the effects won’t be of use to you when recording your podcast, but they will be available.

Audacity

Audacity is a free, easy-to-use, multi-track audio editor and recorder, and whilst a DAW with the same drawbacks, it’s a popular choice that deserves a mention. It’s available for Windows, macOS, GNU/Linux and other operating systems, and the interface is translated into many languages.

Audacity functions as a typical DAW, allowing you to record numerous guests at once, edit and mix your show, in addition to adding musical elements to your podcast.

GarageBand

If you have a Mac, you probably have seen GarageBand in your applications. It’s free and conveniently already downloaded. It’s a typical DAW which can be used to record your podcast show but will have the same drawbacks due to it being catered to music production.

Typically for recording music and as an introduction to Logic Pro X, GarageBand is a fully equipped music creation studio inside your Mac. The software has a complete sound library that includes instruments, presets for guitar and voice, and a selection of session drummers and percussionists which might not be of benefit to you.

Software to add music and sound

Ampify Studio

Create show intros, outros, and jingles of any genre in no time at all with professional, royalty-free loops ready to go through an easy-to-use software. Combine loops from multiple soundpacks to create something unique instantly.

Ampify Studio allows you to build your own backing tracks and jingles easily which will be unique to your show, unlike with other sound providers. If you want more ownership over the music on your podcast, this is the tool you need. It is a music making platform primarily; however, is accessible and easy-to-use which allows anyone to create tracks with no music experience necessary, using loops from an exclusive library.

With Ampify Studio Premium, access an exclusive and expanding library of royalty-free sounds — over 12,000 and rising — covering multiple genres and styles. New sounds added weekly, so there’s always something fresh for you to sink your teeth into.

Epidemic Sounds

Whilst aimed at video creators, Epidemic Sounds provides royalty-free music for your podcast show too. Get unlimited access to our music and sound effects catalog for your videos, streams, and podcasts. Their licence comes with all necessary rights included, meaning your content will be safe from copyright claims, anywhere you use it.

You can try for free for 30 days before subscribing, so you can ensure it’s the right fit for you. Included with the subscription is 90,000 sound effects too.