Dipping into the editing world can seem overwhelming for the average podcaster but don't let that put you off. Throughout this article, we will discuss some of the best radio show and podcast editing software options for you and help you find the most efficient ways to edit your show.
What is a DAW?
A digital audio workstation is a piece of software that you can manually record and edit your podcast on. Your microphones will be plugged into audio interface (this converts microphone signals into a digital format so your computer can read them) which will then be connected to your computer. From here you can load your microphone track into the daw and get ready to record.
The majority of DAWs can have editing, mixing and mastering facilities, however these do depend on which software you use. Below is a list of some different DAWs that you might want to consider for your show, ranging from beginner to advanced.
Audacity
One of the most popular, free audio editing software is called Audacity. Audacity is an open-source DAW used by many people in the podcast and editing industry. It runs on both macOS and windows and you can download it right here. You'll be able to do all the major editing tasks on your audio including; recordings multiple tracks, using effects to clean and process, as well as exporting it in whatever format you wish.
We usually advise on an mp3 320kbps format as the majority of hosting platforms cant handle much higher quality. If you are new to audio editing then this is a great option for you to get started with. Audacity is free, easy to learn, and provides all the basic processes you will need.
Logic pro x
For all the Apple lovers out there, Logic pro is a great choice to edit your shows on. With a one off payment of around £200 when you initially download, this is a great option for more advanced podcasters looking to level up their shows. Once you learn the basic tools within the software you will be able to utilise its features and will greatly increase the efficiency of your editing. There are many free online tutorials that will give you all the information you require to teach yourself. Logics' ability to change the playback speed will allow more advanced users to quickly skim episodes if you are on a tight time schedule. The software also includes a range of plugins from EQ's to compressors that will leave your show with a
professional touch. You can always add more specialist third-party plugins as you learn, RX-8, and Waves are just few of the brands that I would reach out to on a daily basis. So, if you have used Logics free version 'Garage band' then this is a great upgrade and will make the transition to more advanced podcast editing easier.
Hindenburg PRO
The Hindenburg PRO is a DAW specifically designed for radio journalists and podcasters. It will cost just £8 a month or a one off payment of £299, to use. Taken straight from their website, it says their software has a 'Focus on storytelling' and its features are designed to benefit
spoken word recordings. So fortunately for new podcasters this is a great option as they
have streamlined their software to make it less daunting for beginners, compared to other advanced DAW's. You will find you can edit a show that has multiple tracks, intros, outros and use other effects
with ease and leaves you with a professional sound. If you have the budget for this DAW this is another great option as it is designed for vocal recordings.
Adobe Audition
Adobe Audition is our last recommendation and is another fantastic option for podcast editors. You have everything you need here to produce your shows to the highest standard. This software includes noise clean-up, EQ's, compressor and mastering plug-ins.
Their multitrack recording feature is great for when you have more than one guest. We have used this function in the past and it allowed us to layer the tracks with sound fx and jingles without the need for our other expensive third-party plugins. However, there is a lot more to learn in this software which means we wouldn't usually advise it for beginner producers and
editors. Like most of Adobes programs they only offer a monthly subscription, starting at around £19.97 per month. If you have the budget for this software and are ready to sit down and learn the basics of this DAW, your shows will greatly benefit
.
What's your favourite DAW?
Audacity
Logic Pro x
Hindenburg
Adobe Audition
All the DAWS we have listed above are used by editing professionals. Everyone has their personal preference, but this is to give you information and help to decide what would best suit your needs. Most of these offer free trials on their website so be sure to avail of them before committing. As always if you don't want to learn, don't have the time or just want to outsource your editing you can contact us here to see how we can help.
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