This year is another bumper one for podcasts with global listenership growing by a whooping 40+ million, from 2022 to 2023 according to the Influencer Marketing Hub. What’s more, in the U.S. alone, it’s reported that 62% of all consumers listen to podcasts, equating to a doubling in listenership numbers in just 10 years. There’s no doubt that podcasting is on an exciting trajectory, and even moreso now with the advent of sophisticated remote podcasting software platforms enabling content creators to connect with their audience, no matter where they are. These tools have revolutionized the way content creators produce and distribute their podcasts, breaking down geographical barriers and opening up a world of possibilities. Among these, SquadCast’s innovative features and user-friendly interface has made it easier than ever for creators to produce studio quality podcasts at the touch of a button.

In this article, we guide you through the process of selecting the best remote podcast software for your needs in 2023. So, whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or a budding content creator, read on to discover how you can harness the power of remote podcasting.

 

What to Look for in a Remote Podcasting Software?

Choosing the right remote podcasting software is a game-changer. It can mean the difference between a smooth, professional-sounding podcast and one plagued by technical glitches and poor audio quality. You need to consider:

High-Quality Audio Recording

When it comes to podcasting, audio quality is paramount. Your listeners may forgive the occasional slip-up in your speech or a minor factual error, but poor audio quality can be a deal-breaker. It can make your podcast difficult to listen to and can detract from the value of the content you’re sharing. High-quality audio recording is, therefore, a non-negotiable feature of any remote podcasting software. The software should be capable of capturing clear, crisp audio that is free from background noise, echo, or distortion. This is particularly important for remote podcasting, where you and your guests may be recording in different environments with varying levels of ambient noise.

Look for software that offers high-definition audio recording, ideally in a lossless format, like WAV. This will ensure that the audio is captured in the highest quality possible, preserving all the nuances of your voice and your guests’ voices.

Guaranteed Reliability

The last thing you want is to lose an entire episode due to a software crash or a lost internet connection. That’s where features like progressive uploads and backups come into play, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Progressive uploads are a feature that allows your audio data to be continuously uploaded to the cloud while you’re recording. This means that even if your recording session is interrupted — say, by a sudden power outage or internet disconnection — you won’t lose the content you’ve already recorded. As soon as your connection is restored, the upload resumes from where it left off, ensuring that every word is safely stored and ready for editing.

Backups, on the other hand, are your safety net. A good remote podcasting software will automatically create backups of your recordings, storing them securely in the cloud. This protects your content against potential data loss scenarios. 

Number of Remote Guests

The ability to host multiple guests simultaneously opens up a world of possibilities for your podcast. You can host panel discussions, roundtable debates, or simply have more voices contributing to a topic. This can add depth and diversity to your content, making it more engaging for your listeners.

SquadCast excels at this and is known for its high-quality audio recording and reliable performance, which allows for a session to have up to 10 people total: 1 Host and up to 9 Guests. This makes it an excellent choice for podcasts that often feature multiple guests, or for hosts who like to mix up their format with solo episodes, interviews, and group discussions.

Non-Destructive Mixing Features  

These features allow you to make changes to your audio files without permanently altering the original track. This means you can experiment with different effects and edits, knowing you can always revert back to the original if needed. Non-destructive mixing features can include a range of tools designed to enhance the quality of your audio. For instance, some software may offer features to remove plosives, clicks, pops, hisses, and other interference from your recordings. 

Additionally, some remote podcasting software may offer live editing capabilities. This allows you to make edits to your audio in real-time, saving you time in post-production. You can upload and insert intros, outros, ads, and other effects as you record, so you don’t have to add them later.

Ability to Save Files Locally

Local file saving means that the audio files are stored directly on your computer or chosen local storage device. This has several advantages. Firstly, it ensures that you always have access to your files, even if you’re offline or experiencing internet connectivity issues. This can be particularly important if you’re recording in a location with unreliable internet access.

Secondly, local file saving provides an additional layer of security for your files. While cloud storage providers typically have robust security measures in place, having a local copy of your files means you’re not solely reliant on the cloud for your file storage. 

Finally, saving files locally can provide more control over your file management. You can organize your files in a way that suits your workflow, making it easier to locate specific episodes or segments when needed.

Broad Compatibility and Integrations 

Broad compatibility ensures that your podcasting software can work seamlessly with a range of devices and operating systems. Whether you’re using a Mac, Windows, Linux computer, or recording on a smartphone or tablet, your software should be able to support it. This also extends to audio equipment – the software should be compatible with a variety of microphones, headphones, and audio interfaces.

Integrations, on the other hand, refer to the software’s ability to connect and work with other applications. This can include everything from cloud storage services, to audio editing software, to social media platforms. Integrations can streamline your workflow, allowing you to easily transfer files, share content, and even schedule podcast episodes directly from your podcasting software.

For instance, some podcasting softwares offer integrations with popular audio editing tools, enabling you to send your recordings directly to the editing software with just a few clicks. Others may integrate with social media platforms, allowing you to share your episodes directly to your social channels.

User Friendliness 

The best tools are those that are easy to use. A user-friendly interface not only makes the podcasting process more enjoyable, but it can also save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating great content.

One aspect of user friendliness is the ability to schedule sessions and send invites. A good remote podcasting software should make it easy for you to schedule recording sessions, send out invites to your guests, and manage these sessions. This can be particularly useful if you’re dealing with guests in different time zones, as the software can automatically adjust the invite to the guest’s local time.

Another important feature is the ability to organize your files and sessions. The software should provide an intuitive way for you to manage your recordings, making it easy to find past sessions, sort episodes, and keep track of upcoming recordings.

Support

Even with the most user-friendly software, you may occasionally encounter issues or have questions about certain features. That’s where strong customer support comes into play. 

A comprehensive support center is a valuable resource. This could include a knowledge base with articles and guides on how to use the software, troubleshoot common issues, and make the most of its features. Video tutorials, FAQs, and community forums can also be helpful, providing answers to common questions and offering tips and advice from other users.

Email support is another important aspect. The ability to reach out to a support team and receive a timely and helpful response can make a big difference, especially if you’re dealing with a technical issue or need assistance with a complex feature. Some software providers may also offer live chat or phone support for immediate assistance.

 

What’s the Best Remote Podcast Software in 2023?

In 2023, your remote podcasting software should provide a balance of quality, reliability, flexibility, and ease of use, ensuring you can create the best possible content for your listeners with your final decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Best Remote Podcast Software – Audio Only

For podcasters who prefer to concentrate solely on the auditory experience, choosing a remote podcast software that excels in audio recording and editing is crucial.

Cleanfeed

Cleanfeed offers high-quality audio recording capabilities and is compatible with a wide range of devices and browsers. 

  • Pros: Cleanfeed requires no software downloads and can be easily shared with guests who can use almost any device. The software offers crisp, clear sound with no interference or interruptions, making it perfect for interviews and podcasts. Finally, the ability to split and record each remote input individually gives you greater control over your audio editing process.
  • Cons: There have been reports of occasional connection issues, with some guests unable to connect or experiencing audio issues during the session.
  • Who it’s best suited to? It’s easy-to-use interface and high-quality audio make it a great choice for both novice podcasters and more experienced creators. However, if you frequently host guests and are concerned about potential connection issues, you may want to thoroughly test Cleanfeed before committing to it as your primary podcasting software.
  • G2 Score: 4.2

Spreaker

Spreaker offers a range of features designed to make it easy for content creators of all sizes to host and distribute audio content.

  • Pros: Spreaker’s podcast recording app, which is available for both iOS and Android, simplifies the recording and editing process. It also boasts an analytics tools which provides real-time insights into your podcast’s performance. This can be crucial if you plan to monetize your podcast.
  • Cons: While Spreaker does offer a free plan, it limits you to 5-hour audio storage and only 10 episodes. To unlock additional storage and unlimited episodes, you’ll need to upgrade. If you’re serious about podcasting and need advanced features like detailed statistics and monetization tools, you’ll need to consider the broadcaster plan, which comes at a cost.
  • Who it’s best suited to? Spreaker is a good fit for podcasters who want a comprehensive, all-in-one platform for recording, editing, and distributing their podcast. Its advanced mobile app makes it particularly suitable for podcasters who want to record on the go. However, if you’re just starting out and have limited resources, you may find the limitations of the free plan restrictive.
  • G2 Score: 3.5

Ringr

Whether you’re recording voice conversations over a telephone line or in person, Ringr is designed to make your audio sound amazing. 

  • Pros: Ringr’s platform includes advanced editing abilities that can elevate the quality of your podcast audio. At a starting cost of $7.99 per month, Ringr is one of the most economical podcasting options available. Ringr also offers a free trial allowing you to test the software before committing to a subscription.
  • Cons: While Ringr offers enhanced audio capabilities, it does not have as many advanced features as other podcasting softwares. 
  • Who it’s best suited to? Ringr is best suited to podcasters who prioritize audio quality and are looking for an affordable, straightforward solution. It’s particularly beneficial for those who conduct a lot of remote or phone interviews as the software is designed to optimize the sound quality of these recordings.
  • G2 Score: N/A


Best Remote Podcast Software – Audio and Video

For podcasters looking to engage their audience on multiple fronts, choosing a remote podcasting software that supports both audio and video is crucial.

SquadCast

SquadCast is a remote podcasting software that stands out for its high-quality audio and video output. Designed with collaboration in mind, it offers a suite of features that make it easy to produce polished content that engages your audience.

  • Pros: SquadCast offers high-quality video and audio output, ensuring your final product impresses your audience. With SquadCast, you can host up to nine guests, making it easy to collaborate and create engaging content. Each participant receives their own individual file, simplifying the editing and mixing process to produce the best final product. The platform is easy to navigate, with clear instructions and tutorials available to guide you through the process. SquadCast offers reliable recording and progressive uploads, ensuring that your sessions are backed up and accessible at all times.
  • Cons: While SquadCast may not be the cheapest option on the market, its quality and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for serious podcasters and content creators. As with all remote recording software, internet connectivity can impact the conversation. However, thanks to SquadCast’s progressive uploads, the recordings will still be high-quality local recordings. A strong and stable internet connection is important for optimal results.
  • Who it’s best suited to? SquadCast is best suited to podcasters and content creators who are serious about remote recording and want to produce the best quality audio and video content possible. SquadCast’s reliability and top notch output make it a top choice for those who want to invest in high-quality video recording software.
  • G2 Score: 4.8

 

ZenCastr

Zencastr is a modern web-based solution for high-quality podcast production. It offers a fully featured suite of professional tools that allow podcast producers to quickly record their guests over the web in studio quality.

  • Pros: Zencastr’s platform is easy to navigate, and offers reliable recording, ensuring that your sessions are backed up and accessible at all times.
  • Cons: While Zencastr offers enhanced audio capabilities, it may not have as many advanced features as some other podcasting software. As with all remote recording software, internet connectivity can impact the conversation. 
  • Who it’s best suited to? For podcasters and content creators who are committed to remote recording and aspire to generate top-tier content, Zencastr is a great fit.
  • G2 Score: 3.7

 

Riverside

Riverside is a podcasting software that prioritizes sound and video quality. 

  • Pros: Riverside’s local recording function ensures high-quality audio and video output, making it a good choice for podcasters who prioritize quality. Riverside’s interface is also easy to navigate, making it a reliable choice for podcasters of all levels. 
  • Cons: Riverside lacks advanced editing features, which may be a drawback for podcasters who require more complex editing capabilities. Allowing for a maximum of seven guests, Riverside may be limiting for larger panel discussions or interviews. While Riverside offers a variety of plans, it can be difficult to switch between them.
  • Who it’s best suited to? Riverside is best suited to podcasters who prioritize sound and video quality and do not require advanced editing features. Its high-quality local recording and user-friendly interface make it a reliable choice for podcasters of all levels.
  • G2 Score: 4.8

 

Final Thoughts: Selecting Your Ideal Remote Podcast Recording Software

The right remote podcast recording software for you depends on your specific needs and goals. Whether you’re prioritizing sound quality, video capabilities, guest capacity, or user-friendliness, there’s a platform out there that can meet your requirements. Consider your budget, technical skills, and the specific features you need for your podcast. And don’t be afraid to test out different platforms and find the one that feels right for you. 

Why wait? You can dive into the world of professional podcasting and start your free trial with SquadCast today.

 

About SquadCast

As podcasting explodes in popularity, so does the demand for quality content. Enter SquadCast — the SaaS platform that empowers content creators to collaborate from anywhere in the world. This remote recording studio captures quality audio and video conversations, without audio syncing issues. With patented cloud-based technology that incorporates multiple back-up files, there are no lost recordings, which means no worries in the event of a power outage or disconnection issue. Fewer recording concerns means more time to have meaningful, studio-quality conversations, with simplified post-production and collaboration. Launched in 2017, SquadCast has customers in 220+ countries and municipalities, including marquee brands such as Microsoft, Spotify, ESPN, NPR, iHeartRadio, Kara Swisher, and Shopify. SquadCast is headquartered in Oakland, California. To get to know us better, check out our blog.