Podcasting is a booming industry that has become incredibly popular in recent years – both among budding content creators looking to start their own, and amongst fans who enjoy nothing more than consuming hours of content.
With this, there are also a plethora of free, high-quality online tools that can be perfect for anyone looking to get started in the podcasting industry, and are great whether you are looking to learn the basics, or if you are an established podcaster.
But what tools are there, and what benefits do they hold?
| 🏆 Best Overall  | 🥇 Best Hosting  | 🚀Growing  | 🎤 Distribution  |
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What Are The Best Podcast Tools?
There are now countless great resources that can be great for podcasting – be it for an up-and-coming project, or one that is already established – with each offering something a little different to the process.
Podcast Microphone
Whether you need an XLR or a USB mic, podcast microphones are essential for recording high audio quality. Podcast mics come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and shotgun styles (also see, ‘USB Mic vs XLR‘).
USB mics make it easy to plug into your computer or mobile device without any additional equipment. XLR mics require an audio interface or mixer to connect them to the recording device but often produce higher-quality sound.
| Professional Quality  | Most Versatile  | Content Creators  |
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| $169.00 | $84.99 | $84.99 |
When selecting a podcast mic, consider the size of your recording area and whether you need to record multiple voices at once for podcast interviews or conversations.
You should also think about what type of sound quality and features you expect from the microphone such as sensitivity, frequency response range, and polar pattern selection.
With so many options on the market today, it’s easy to find a microphone that fits your needs and budget.
Podcasting Headphones
Having a good pair of headphones is just as important as having the right microphone when podcasting. Headphones allow you to hear yourself and any guests you may have on the show while recording without any audio bleed into the recording itself (also see, ‘Best Headphones For Podcasting‘).
Headphones can also be used as monitoring devices during post-production and editing of your podcast episodes. For the best sound quality, look for headphones with an extended frequency response range, low distortion, and a closed-back design.
Additionally, look for features such as detachable cables and a comfortable fit to ensure that your recording sessions are pleasant and distraction-free. With so many models available today, you’re sure to find the perfect pair of headphones for your podcasting needs.
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| $349.99 | $99.99 | $129.97 | $154.99 |
Audio Interface
An audio interface is an essential podcast tool in any creator’s setup. An audio interface acts as a bridge between your recording device and microphone, allowing you to capture the highest quality sound possible for every podcast episode.
The interface will typically have one or more inputs and outputs for connecting your microphones, headphones, monitors, and other external devices.
Look for an interface with ample inputs for your podcasting needs, and consider whether you need an interface with preamps or direct monitoring features for your own podcast.
Additionally, look for other features such as a zero-latency headphone output, USB connectivity, and low noise floor. With the right audio interface, you can ensure that your audio recording will sound as professional as possible.
What’s The Best Podcast Mixer?
| The Best Solo Quality  | Best for Home Studios  | Best for Professional Studios  |
| Primary Rating: 4.5 | Primary Rating: 4.6 | Primary Rating: 4.2 |
| $159.14 | $249.99 | $599.99 |
Podcast Recording Tools
Recording software is the backbone of any podcast production workflow. It’s where you record your audio file, edit it, and mix your episodes.
Popular choices for podcast recording software include Audacity (free), Adobe Audition (paid subscription), and Pro Tools (paid license). Some options offer more features than others, so take some time to explore which one best meets your needs.
When selecting podcast recording software, look for features such as noise reduction, multi-track capability, and built-in effects like equalization (EQ) and compression.
Also, consider the user interface and whether you prefer a more traditional desktop program or a cloud-based platform that allows you to record remotely.
No matter what type of podcast you’re producing, there’s a recording software solution that will help make your episodes sound professional and polished.
Skype
This is perhaps an obvious one, but Skype can be great for co-hosting podcasts when both hosts are far away from each other.
What’s more, they have a great range of packages, including a free tier, which is one of the best around.
It’s easy to use, reliable, and great for connecting with remote guests on your podcast.
Skype is the perfect tool for any podcaster looking to get started without breaking the bank.
Audacity
If you are looking for a powerful piece of audio editing software that won’t cost you anything then Audacity might be just what you need.
It has a range of features that make it useful for podcasting and editing audio recordings, and it can be used on both Macs and PCs.
What’s more, it is open source software so you don’t have to worry about paying any subscription fees either.
Audacity is great for cutting out background noise or adding sound effects, and it is also great for mastering your audio files.
It is an intuitive piece of software that is useful for any podcaster looking to increase the production value of their podcast.
GarageBand
If you are a Mac user, then you might consider using GarageBand for your podcasting.
This is great for recording sound, editing your podcast together, and has a large catalog of sounds that are available for you to use.
What’s more, if you are a Mac user, then this piece of software comes as standard with your computer or laptop, making it a sensible and useful choice for budding podcasters.
Google Hangouts On-Air
If you are looking to live stream certain episodes of your podcast, then Google Hangouts On-Air is a great tool for you to use.
Not only is it free, but it is also compatible across Mac and Windows, and all people will need is a Google account on their browser.
This makes it easier for you to connect with your podcast listeners in real-time, and you can even record your live streams for future use.
It’s simple, easy, and free – the perfect tool for any podcaster looking to make their podcast a little more interactive.
Podcast Editing Software
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced podcast producer, having the right editing software is essential to making your podcast sound professional.
There are many great options available for editing audio and video files for both Windows and Mac users, such as Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, and GarageBand.
Look for software that includes features like multitrack recording with unlimited tracks, support for MIDI instruments, and built-in effects such as compression, EQ, reverb, and delays.
Additionally, consider whether you’ll need software that can help with podcast post-production tasks such as adding sound effects or creating jingles.
By investing in the right software for your production needs, you can ensure your podcast episodes are polished and professional-sounding.
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Podcast Hosting Platform
Once you’ve recorded your podcast, the next step is to find a good hosting platform for it. Choosing the right podcast hosting service can be daunting, but there are several factors to look at when selecting one.
Look for features such as storage space, episode streaming capabilities, analytics tracking and reporting, and support for multiple audio formats. Additionally, consider how much you’re willing to spend and whether you want a free or paid podcast hosting platform.
Ultimately, the right podcast hosting platform will depend on your specific needs. With so many options available today, it’s easy to find one that fits your budget and offers the features you need for your podcast.
Here are some popular hosting platforms to choose from.
BluBrry
If you want to keep track of your stats, then this podcast hosting platform is a great one to take advantage of.
Here you can check the number of streams, and downloads, as well as the number of bots that it has tracked, and other useful analytics.
You can also customize your hosting page, as well as the way that you deliver your podcast.
BluBrry also provides an extensive library of sound effects and royalty-free music for your podcast.
It even offers PodSafe Music Licensing to make sure you never run into any legal issues with using copyrighted music in your podcasts. And, it has a powerful podcast RSS feed generator that makes it easy to make and distribute podcasts for any podcasting platform.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced podcaster, BluBrry has everything you need to get started and grow your podcast audience. With its intuitive dashboard, reliable hosting solutions, high-quality audio, and analytics tools, BluBrry is an excellent choice for anyone looking to start a podcast.
It’s affordable, reliable, and user-friendly – making it a great choice for any podcaster.
Buzzsprout
Buzzsprout is a popular podcast hosting platform with features designed to make it easy for podcast creators of all levels. It offers unlimited storage space and automatically updates your show RSS feed when you publish new episodes.
It also offers a wide range of analytics tracking and reporting options, as well as advanced podcast statistics.
Buzzsprout also supports multiple audio formats and allows you to embed your player on any website or social media platform. The pricing plans are affordable and you can even get your first episode for free.
- Buzzsprout is recommended by Podcasters from beginners to experts.
- Podcast Hosting made easy!
Podbean
Podbean is another popular podcast hosting platform with features for podcast creators of all experience levels. It offers unlimited storage space, automatic RSS feed updates, and multiple audio formats.
It also has detailed analytics tracking and reporting capabilities as well as monetization options. Additionally, Podbean makes it easy to embed your player on any website or social media platform. The pricing plans are affordable and you can even get one month of hosting for free.
- Easily start your own podcast today!
- There is a reason Podbean is used by 570,000+ Podcasters!
Podcast Music and Sound Effects
Adding music and sound effects to your podcast episodes can help create a more enjoyable listening experience for your listeners. There are many sources available for royalty-free music and sound effects, such as Free Music Archive, Freesound, and Incompetech.
When selecting music and sound effects, consider the mood you want to evoked with your episode and look for sounds that fit this. Additionally, make sure you have the correct license to use the music and sound effects in your podcast.
With a careful selection of music and sound effects, you can help bring your podcast episodes to life and create a more engaging listening experience for your audience.
Free Music Archive
If you are looking for podcast audio files and sound effects, then Free Music Archive is the one for you.
They have countless free sounds you can download and use, and allows you to add a little humor and up the production value at the same time.
The platform also has a wide range of genres and styles ranging from classical to hip-hop.
This way, you can pick the perfect piece for your podcast without having to worry about copyright infringement.
Whether you need music for intros or outros, Free Music Archive is the best choice for any podcaster looking to spruce up their sound.
More Sources of Royalty-Free Music
Podcast Directories
Once you’ve recorded and edited your audio tracks, the next step is to get it out to listeners. Podcast directories such as Apple Podcasts (formerly iTunes), Google Play Music, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, and Spotify are great places to start.
Submitting your podcast to these directories is quick and easy, but make sure you follow all the guidelines before submitting. Additionally, always include artwork and a description of your podcast when submitting to these directories.
By submitting to podcast directories, you can make sure your podcast is easily discoverable by new listeners. This will help grow your audience and ensure more people have access to your amazing content!
- Stitcher is a podcast streaming platform.
- Offers on-demand access to podcasts and radio shows.
- Provides both free and premium services.
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about podcasting tools, and what benefits they can hold for new and established podcasters alike.
The widespread popularity of podcasting means that now more than ever there are countless free online resources that allow even the biggest amateur to achieve a high quality podcast at the click of a mouse.
