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If you’ve been following through our B2B Podcasting Mastered course, you should have a good idea of how to narrate compelling stories to a targeted audience, hold engaging interviews, and even the best equipment for podcasting. 

Those lessons were designed to set a strong foundation for delivering killer audio. The final step for capturing great sound that will keep audiences listening is finding the best software for podcasting. And this is exactly what we’ll be discussing in this lesson.

When mastering how to record for a podcast, telling a compelling story and using the best equipment are crucial factors. But it is the podcast recording software that ties everything together. This means that your software for audio recording may make or break the quality of your business podcast.

Naturally, the next question on your mind is, “What is the best software for podcasting?” After a quick search on Google, you will realize that today’s market is crowded with a near-overwhelming number of podcast recording software and podcasting recording apps. 

And to make the situation more complicated, most software for audio recording that you come across will likely claim to be the ‘best’ in the market. So, what is what?

What is Podcast Recording Software?

Struggling to find the best software to start your B2B podcast? You’re not alone. We understand your struggles. But choosing your software for audio recording does not have to be hard. And we’re here to make sure of this.

The first step is to clarify what we mean by “podcast recording software.” It may seem obvious (after all, the definition is all in the name: i.e., ‘podcast’ and ‘recording’), but you’d be surprised at how confusing it can get.

Podcast software come in many forms. They can be categorized into:

• Software for Audio Recording: This is basically software that is paired with your microphone setup to capture crisp, high-quality audio onto a computer or cloud. Good podcast recording software allows you to capture the subtle nuances of dialogue for sharp audio. It gives you more control and flexibility over your sound output.
• Podcast Software for Editing and Production
• Software for Podcast Scheduling
• Podcast Software for Hosting

In this lesson, we will focus on podcast recording software. But please note that most software for podcasting—especially DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations)—may serve multiple purposes (e.g., recording and editing). 

Regardless, we’ll focus on the recording part. Keep an eye on future lessons for more on the other forms of podcasting software.

This post is the 10th in a series of “Podcasting Mastered” chapters designed to help you launch and grow an enterprise lead-generating podcast.

There has never been a better time to make your voice heard – and we’re here to help master the art of podcasting with step-by-step guides.

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What to Look out For When Choosing Podcast Recording Software?

We know you likely have a lot to consider when launching your business podcast—from interviewing guests to the best equipment for B2B podcasting. But software is something you should never underestimate. It may determine how your show will sound now and in the future.

Here are some key things to consider when choosing podcast recording software to help you make the right choice:

• Compatibility: First things first, is the podcast recording software compatible with your computer OS (operating system) and equipment?
• Price: What is your budget? As a beginner, you might want to try free options or enroll for trial periods before investing in software for audio recording. And while there are some awesome free podcast recording software out there, remember that the highest quality typically costs you money.
• Recording Quality: With B2B podcasting, you want professional audio quality. Aim for software that records in 48kHz audio resolution and not less than 44.1 kHz.
• Ease of Use: This is an important consideration if you are a beginner. It might be tempting to go for the podcast software with the most features, but sometimes simplicity is better. You may get a lot more value from the easy-to-use and accessible options.
• Help and Support: Sometimes complications arise, and things go wrong with your recording. You’ll appreciate having a software with adequate help documentation or technical support when this happens.
• Local Vs. Remote Recording: Local recording software records everything to your devices without relying on an internet connection. I.e., all speakers are in the same recording environment. Remote recording software are applicable for call-in or remote guest interviews by allowing you to record from anywhere in the world.

Best Free Software for Podcasting?

1. Audacity.

Best Overall Free Podcast Recording Software.

Price: FREE

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Learning Curve: Easy to use and learn

Best Recording Location: Local

Best For: Solo Podcasts (can’t support if you have more than one person talking)

Audacity has long been the go-to podcast software for beginners, and it is easy to see why. The iconic podcast software for Windows, Mac, and Linux desktops is suited for everyone, whether you’re running a solo podcast or hosting an interview locally. It has nearly everything you need to record high-quality audio.

You can seamlessly capture live audio through a mixer or directly from a microphone in 16-bit, 24-bit, or 32-bit depth. And if you’re looking to digitize recordings from other media, Audacity allows you to import or export nearly all types of audio formats. Plus, as a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), it has easy (but basic) editing and production functionalities to polish your recording.

But perhaps the most impressive thing about Audacity is that you get all these features for FREE. You have literally nothing to lose and everything to gain. And if you feel your B2B podcasting needs are advancing, you can upgrade to a more robust podcast recording software.

PROS

• It’s a free podcast recording software but is still good enough to compete with pricier alternatives.
• It’s a beginner-friendly software for podcasting.
• Accessible on all operating systems.
• Incredibly powerful: Smooth recording and intuitive audio editing tools.
• Audacity has been around for years, and it has a proven record of reliability.

CONS

• The user interface may appear outdated and unattractive to some people.
• Doesn’t support remote recording.
• As open-source software, don’t expect support.

2. QuickTime

Best Free Beginner Podcast Software for Mac.

Price: FREE

Compatibility: macOS

Learning Curve: Easy to Use and Learn

Best Recording Location: Local

Best For: Solo Podcasts (can’t support if you have more than one person talking)

Got a Mac? You probably already have decent software for audio recording pre-installed in your system. QuickTime may not be specifically designed for podcasting, but it does the job nonetheless.

Besides, it’s free, and the interface is already familiar for anyone who’s used a Mac. So why not give it a try when you’re starting out? You have nothing to lose. Think of it as a great stepping stone as you refine your B2B podcasting skills.

PROS

• QuickTime is a decent option if you want a simple podcast software for Mac that is easy to master.
• It’s free and accessible to all Mac users.

CONS

• Doesn’t support remote recording.
• Limited audio recording and editing tools: There are better options if you want high-quality audio.

3. GarageBand

Best Free Podcast Software for Mac.

Price: FREE

Compatibility: macOS, iOS

Learning Curve: Moderate

Best Recording Location: Local

Best For: Solo Podcasts (can’t support if you have more than one person talking)

We’ve mentioned how QuickTime is simple to use and how virtually anyone with a Mac can figure out their way around the software. But the trade-off is its limited audio recording and editing features. 

GarageBand is the natural next step if you want to advance your podcasting. The free podcast software for Mac has a slightly steeper learning curve than QuickTime. Still, it comes packed with more features for recording and editing audio. 

You can also improve your podcast recording experience using various plug-ins available in the ecosystem. It’s also worth noting that GarageBand has an iOS podcasting recording app that allows you to record on the go.

PROS

• It’s a free podcast recording software.
• The interface is relatively easy to use for beginners.
• The iOS podcasting recording app means you can record on the go with your iPhone.

CONS

• Only available for Apple users.
• Limited tools compared to peers like Audacity.

4. Anchor.fm

The Podcast Software that Does Everything.

Price: Free

Compatibility: iOS, Android, Browser-Based

Learning Curve: Easy to Use and Learn

Best Recording Location: Remote

Best For: Interviews, Co-hosted, Panel Podcasts (supports multiple speakers)

You may know Anchor as a podcast hosting platform if you have some experience in the B2B podcasting space. But it is A LOT more than that. We call Anchor the “Swiss army knife” for your business podcast because that is exactly what it is.

The Spotify-owned software for podcasting has robust audio recording and editing tools to capture and polish your conversations. Dialogues (solo or with up to 5 guests) are recorded on a single track that you can edit afterward. You can then publish, distribute your episode to popular listening apps, and monetize it.

As a browser-based platform, you can access Anchor’s functionalities from anywhere. You also get a podcasting recording app for both Android and iOS devices.

With all its features, it might be surprising to learn that Anchor is a free podcast recording software.

PROS

• You get nearly all podcast creation services on one platform.
• It’s FREE!
• The software for podcasting is easy to use.
• Offers a well-developed monetization framework.

CONS

• Editing features are limited.
• The free status comes with some hurdles, such as how long you can record.

Best Paid Software for Podcasting?

1. Hindenburg

Best for Professional-Grade Audio Recording.

Price: The subscription plan starts at $12/Month for the Pro version—but you can buy a perpetual license for $99 (Lite Version) or $399 (Pro Version)

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS

Learning Curve: Moderate

Best Recording Location: Local and Remote

Best For: Solo Podcasts (can’t support if you have more than one person talking)

If you want the best podcast software for Windows and Mac that money can buy, Hindenburg is a must-try.

While its plug-and-play setup makes it useful for beginners, the software is ideal for audio recording professionals and seasoned podcasters. Hindenburg is the gold standard for anyone looking to capture the subtle nuances of spoken-word content, which is what you should be aiming for with B2B podcasting.

You can record multiple tracks, import audio files regardless of their sample rates or bit rates, edit, and publish to popular podcast hosting platforms. There’s even a plug-in that allows you to record remotely and an iPhone “Field Recorder” to capture professional-level audio on the go.

PROS

• Simple setup with a low barrier of entry.
• It’s an incredibly powerful DAW explicitly designed for voice-oriented radio production and B2B podcasting.
• Reliable professional grade quality to significantly sharpen your podcast audio.

CONS

• Mid-range pricing.

2. Adobe Audition

Best for Advanced Tools.

Price: $20.99/Month – with 7-Day FREE Trial

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Learning Curve: Difficult to Learn

Best Recording Location: Local

Best For: Solo Podcasts (can’t support if you have more than one person talking)

Like Hindenburg, Adobe Audition is aimed at professional users. The only difference is that Adobe Audition is packed with tons of features, making it a potent tool if you know how to use it. But if you’re a beginner, the podcast software may feel overwhelming and intimidating – though it does offer built-in templates to ease your troubles.

Adobe Audition allows you to monitor your single or multitrack audio recordings in real-time and manipulate them using the podcast software’s wide range of editing features.

PROS

• Adobe Audition is a no-brainer if you have experience with audio production and are willing to learn.
• It’s a great and proven option for high-quality local audio recording.
• You will have more recording, editing, and production tools at your disposal than most podcasters need.

CONS

• Adobe Audition is intimidating for beginners.
• Prices are a bit on the higher end, but it’s expected from a professional-grade software.

3. Riverside

Overall Best Remote Recording Podcast Software.

Price: FREE plan – with Paid Plans starting at $15/month

Compatibility: Browser-Based, iOS, Android

Learning Curve: Moderate

Best Recording Location: Remote

Best For: Interview Podcasts (supports multiple speakers)

Next up in our recommendations for the best software for podcasting is Riverside. But before we get into the details of why you should consider the software, we’ll briefly highlight some background information to make things easier to understand.

So, are the interview guests you’ve lined up or your co-host(s) miles away? Perhaps their schedules are too tight to accommodate traveling to a studio? Or maybe you (or your guests) are observing social distancing? When face-to-face interviews are not possible, remote recording software come in handy.

But while remote recording is convenient, there is the issue of crackly internet connections on either end, lags, unwanted noise, or even the loss of audio data. And this is where podcasting recording apps like Riverside come in.

Riverside records audio tracks separately and stores them locally for each participant (up to 8 in one recording) while progressively uploading the files for seamless syncing. When it comes to top-quality remote recordings, you’ll have a hard time finding a better podcast software than Riverside.

Some notable podcast brands that use Riverside include On Purpose with Jay Shetty, How I Built This with Guy Raz, and Business Casual with Kinsey Grant.

PROS

• Reliable, high-quality remote audio recordings.
• Supports 4K video recording.
• User-friendly interface.
• Efficient and responsive technical support.

CONS

• Editing tools are basic.

4. Alitu

Best Remote Recording Podcast Software for Beginners.

Price: $32/month – With a 7-Day FREE Trial

Compatibility: Browser-Based

Learning Curve: Easy to Use and Learn

Best Recording Location: Remote

Best For: Interviews, Co-hosted, Panel Podcasts (supports multiple speakers)

“What if you could make your podcast in half the time? Stress-free.” This is the opening statement on Alitu’s website—and a fitting hook to highlight their offering. 

Their main selling point is the simplicity of the platform. Alitu is big on automation, using an intuitive drag n’ drop interface that is easy on the eye and easy to use.

As a browser-based platform, you can record your podcast from anywhere on any device. This accessibility and ease of use make Alitu a popular option for new podcasters.

PROS

• It has one of the easiest learning curves since it is designed specifically for beginning podcasters with little technical knowledge.
• A robust support framework and community.
• Supports most audio file formats.

CONS

• The podcast software is expensive compared to alternatives.
• Limited audio recording and editing features.

5. SquadCast

For Fun, Professional-Grade Remote Audio Recordings.

Price: Starts at $10/Month – With a 7-Day FREE Trial

Compatibility: Browser-Based

Learning Curve: Easy to Use and Learn

Best Recording Location: Remote

Best For: Interviews, Co-hosted, Panel Podcasts (supports multiple speakers)

High-quality audio is at the heart of SquadCast. The dedicated podcast recording software prides itself on facilitating seamless guest experiences and premium recording with local and cloud-saving capabilities. 

Some notable podcast brands that use SquadCast include The Tim Ferriss Show, Women in Tech by Espree Devora, and The Jordan Harbinger Show.

PROS

• It’s a pretty powerful podcast recording software that gets even better with integrations.
• Reliable customer service.
• It’s a great option for capturing stellar-quality audio remotely.
• Easy to use and fun to set up.

CONS

• Editing features are lacking.

Ready to Record for Your Business Podcast?

For a quick recap of this lesson, finding the best software for podcasting is all about knowing your needs and how to meet them.

For example, if you’re looking for professional-grade quality, your best bets are either Hindenburg or Adobe Audition. Going deeper, Hindenburg is more suited for podcasters who value simplicity. Adobe Audition is best for professionals who like a wide range of advanced tools at their disposal.

And if you’re on a budget, we recommend Audacity, GarageBand, or Anchor. Go with Audacity for local recording on any desktop platform (as long as you don’t mind the outdated user interface). GarageBand podcast software for Mac users. Anchor for free remote recording.

The “Podcasting Mastered “course is a blueprint to give you the best chance of succeeding in the increasingly competitive B2B podcasting space. This means that we don’t leave any stone unturned. 

Our goal is to help you make the best decisions to improve your odds of generating quality leads, standing out in your industry, and taking your brand to the next level. This comprehensive guide on the best software for audio recording is designed with the same goal in mind—and we hope you find long-term value from it.

Don’t know where to begin? Get started with our free B2B Podcasting course.

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