05-10-2021

iTunes is going places.

  • Open Podcasts for me. In the Podcasts app on your Mac, click Listen Now (or any item) in the sidebar. Hold the pointer over the show or episode you want to play, then click the Play button. When the episode plays, you see the playback controls at the top of the Podcasts window. Best music production and podcast software for Mac (Free).
  • Spreaker Studio – available for smartphones (iOS and Android) and desktop (Mac, Windows, Chromebook), this free podcast creator app is a quick-and-easy tool to record, add sound effects, and crop & trim your audio. It also publishes and distributes your podcast to all the listening platforms out there.

Download macOS Catalina for an all‑new entertainment experience. Your music, TV shows, movies, podcasts, and audiobooks will transfer automatically to the Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Books apps where you’ll still have access to your favorite iTunes features, including purchases, rentals, and imports.

You can always download iTunes 12.8 for previous versions of macOS,
as well as the iTunes application for Windows.

Hardware:

See Listen to podcasts on all your devices. Open Podcasts for me. In the Podcasts app on your Mac, click Listen Now (or any item) in the sidebar. Hold the pointer over the show or episode you want to play, then click the Play button. When the episode plays, you see the playback controls at the top of the Podcasts window. The fundamental of the app is such a phenomenal idea. One place to record your podcast that covers distribution. I’ll admit I’ve been on the edge of starting a podcast for some time now, and hearing Gary Vee talk about this app is what inspired the download and the start of my podcast. However, and this is a massive however. If you would like additional tools to help create your podcasts, like sound effects and audio enhancements, check these Mac apps. Power Prompter Express (Free, paid version): Teleprompter app. Sound Effects (Free, in-app purchase): Sound effects app. The Levelator (Free): Automatic audio adjustment app.

  • Mac computer with an Intel processor
  • To play 720p HD video, an iTunes LP, or iTunes Extras, a 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo or faster processor is required
  • To play 1080p HD video, a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo or faster processor and 2GB of RAM is required
  • Screen resolution of 1024x768 or greater; 1280x800 or greater is required to play an iTunes LP or iTunes Extras
  • Internet connection to use Apple Music, the iTunes Store, and iTunes Extras
  • Apple combo drive or SuperDrive to create audio, MP3, or backup CDs; some non-Apple CD-RW recorders may also work. Songs from the Apple Music catalog cannot be burned to a CD.

Software:

  • OS X version 10.10.5 or later
  • 400MB of available disk space
  • Apple Music, iTunes Store, and iTunes Match availability may vary by country
  • Apple Music trial requires sign-up and is available for new subscribers only. Plan automatically renews after trial.

iTunes

Download the latest version for Windows.

The latest entertainment apps now come installed with macOS Catalina. Upgrade today to get your favorite music, movies, TV shows, and podcasts. You can join Apple Music and stream — or download and play offline — over 75 million songs, ad‑free.

iTunes

Download the latest version from the Microsoft Store.

The latest entertainment apps now come installed with macOS Catalina. Upgrade today to get your favorite music, movies, TV shows, and podcasts. You can join Apple Music and stream — or download and play offline — over 75 million songs, ad‑free.

Hardware:

  • PC with a 1GHz Intel or AMD processor with support for SSE2 and 512MB of RAM
  • To play standard-definition video from the iTunes Store, an Intel Pentium D or faster processor, 512MB of RAM, and a DirectX 9.0–compatible video card is required
  • To play 720p HD video, an iTunes LP, or iTunes Extras, a 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo or faster processor, 1GB of RAM, and an Intel GMA X3000, ATI Radeon X1300, or NVIDIA GeForce 6150 or better is required
  • To play 1080p HD video, a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo or faster processor, 2GB of RAM, and an Intel GMA X4500HD, ATI Radeon HD 2400, or NVIDIA GeForce 8300 GS or better is required
  • Screen resolution of 1024x768 or greater; 1280x800 or greater is required to play an iTunes LP or iTunes Extras
  • 16-bit sound card and speakers
  • Internet connection to use Apple Music, the iTunes Store, and iTunes Extras
  • iTunes-compatible CD or DVD recorder to create audio CDs, MP3 CDs, or backup CDs or DVDs. Songs from the Apple Music catalog cannot be burned to a CD.

Software:

  • Windows 10
  • 64-bit editions of Windows require the iTunes 64-bit installer
  • 400MB of available disk space
  • Some third-party visualizers may no longer be compatible with this version of iTunes. Please contact the developer for an updated visualizer that is compatible with iTunes 12.1 or later.
  • Apple Music, iTunes Store, and iTunes Match availability may vary by country
  • Apple Music trial requires sign-up and is available for new subscribers only. Plan automatically renews after trial.

iTunes is going places.

Visit the iTunes Store on iOS to buy and download your favorite songs, TV shows, movies, and podcasts. You can also download macOS Catalina for an all-new entertainment experience on desktop. Your library will transfer automatically to the new Apple Music app, Apple TV, and Apple Podcasts. And you’ll still have access to your favorite iTunes features, including your previous iTunes Store purchases, rentals, and imports and the ability to easily manage your library.

Music, TV, and podcasts
take center stage.

iTunes forever changed the way people experienced music, movies, TV shows, and podcasts. It all changes again with three all-new, dedicated apps — Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Podcasts — each designed from the ground up to be the best way to enjoy entertainment on your Mac. And rest assured; everything you had in your iTunes library is still accessible in each app. iCloud seamlessly syncs everything across your devices — or you can back up, restore, and sync by connecting the device directly to your Mac.

The new Apple Music app is the ultimate music streaming experience on Mac.1 Explore a library of over 75 million songs, discover new artists and tracks, find the perfect playlist, download and listen offline, or enjoy all the music you’ve collected over the years. And find it all in your music library on all your devices.

The Apple TV app for Mac is the new home for all your favorite movies, shows, premium channels, and Apple TV+. Watch everything directly in the app or enjoy it offline, and discover the best of what’s on in the Watch Now tab. You can even pick up where you left off on any screen, across all your devices. And for the first time, 4K2 and Dolby Atmos3-supported movies are available on Mac.

More than 700,000 of the best entertainment, comedy, news, and sports shows are now available on your Mac with Apple Podcasts. Search for podcasts by title, topic, guest, host, content, and more. Subscribe and be notified as soon as new episodes become available. And in the Listen Now tab, you can easily pick up where you left off across all your devices.

iTunes Support can help answer your questions

Get help with syncing, updating to a more recent version of iTunes, or with an iTunes Store purchase — and much more.

Free Podcast App For Mac

Learn more

Looking for a previous version of iTunes?

Download earlier versions of iTunes to work with compatible operating systems and hardware.

Find previous versions of iTunes

There's a variety of recording software available for both new and experienced broadcasters. Some come with unique features like built-in instruments and music editing. In contrast, others come with the essential elements of noise reduction and leveling for a clear audio clip.

Thankfully, there are both free and paid options to choose from. Many free programs will get the job done well, but their paid counterparts are useful for automated or finetuning tools.

What to Consider Before You Choose a Podcast Recording Software

Multiple podcast recording software can offer great options, but people will still prefer one or the other based on their needs. Here are some considerations to pick your fit.

  • Solo or Multi Mic
  • Music
  • Automation
  • Price

Below, we'll break down each in more detail.

Solo or Multi

Some audio workstations can only register one microphone's audio. If your podcast has interviews, you should check that your recording software can record multiple tracks.

Music

Programs like Garageband have built-in 'digital' instruments. Others let you directly connect tools like MIDI pianos. Sometimes, programs will be more pricey because of their instrument pack features, but they may not have the clearest voice recordings. Consider which one is more important to your podcast.

Recording or Editing

Some podcast software lets you upload an MP3 and edit it to perfection. But, their built-in voice recording capabilities aren't as good. Make sure your program emphasizes that it can record clear, crisp audio.

Price

Paying a full price upfront can be more affordable than a monthly subscription for some programs. Consider that option if you plan to have a podcast for a long duration.

The Best Free Podcast Recording Software for Windows / Mac

Several standard streaming tools also double as audio recording software. Look below to see what programs you can take advantage of for your podcast.

Audacity

Audacity is a great free podcast recording software that works with microphones or computer audio. It has necessities like noise reduction and equalizer features available.

One downside to this free audio workstation is that it only does destructive podcast editing. So, it's unideal if you want to play with many different effects, such as in a mixtape. You also might need plug-ins like the Nyquist Noise Gate to remove breathing sounds.

Still, Audacity is reliable for recording, free, and get's the job done.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • GNU/Linux

Pros:

  • Aggregate multiple audios
  • Community support
  • Compact program size

Cons:

  • Clunky UI
  • Destructive editing

Zoom

Zoom isn't just good for online meetings. It's also an excellent free podcast recording software. You only need to hit a few buttons to record a zoom meeting, and it accommodates remote speakers.

When you download the audio, it automatically splits participants' audios for you. That gives you the flexibility to adjust every person's voice as needed.

Unfortunately, Zoom has to compress its audio for downloading. So, while it gets the job done, it doesn't have the clearest sound. It's a worthwhile option for remote podcast recording.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS

Pros:

  • Simple set up
  • Remote interviewing
  • Good noise cancellation

Cons:

  • No editing features
  • Average sound quality

Ardour

Ardour markets itself as an affordable digital audio workstation for musicians. It offers a free/demo version that supports up to 10 minutes of audio. After that, it might periodically go silent during editing.

Although it's not completely free, you can pay a small per month subscription to avoid that problem. It'll also give you access to developer updates.

Ardour's strong suit is that it has MIDI input support. Musicians will find versatile tools for recording, mixing, and live performance management here.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux

Pros:

  • Connects to MIDI
  • Non-destructive audio editing
  • Versatile features

Cons:

  • Difficult setup
  • Big learning curve

Ocenaudio

Ocenaudio is one of the more user-friendly podcast recording software free on our list. At first glance, it looks like a simple, colorful audio editor. In action, it gives you handy features like customizable commands.

With VST support for plug-ins, this has become a popular digital podcast recording software. Plus, if you're working in linguistics, you can use its spectral analysis feature. However, you should know it doesn't support CD burning.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux

Pros:

  • Real-time effects previews
  • Non-destructive editing
  • Easy and colorful UX/UI

Cons:

  • Irregular updates
  • Few English tutorials

Garageband

Garageband is Apple's built-in digital audio workstation. It comes included in newer iPad and MacBook purchases.

One neat feature it has is built-in digital instruments. Since it integrates with iOS, you could record your podcast on your phone and edit it on your Macbook later.

Its multitrack recording seemed to be tricky for users, so you might need to watch tutorials. But it's worth a shot if you already have a Mac.

Supported OS:

  • macOS
  • iOS

Pros:

  • Digital 'instruments'
  • Easy splicing
  • Voice effects

Cons:

  • Tricky multitrack editing
  • Not for advanced users

The Best Paid Software for Podcast Recording on Windows / Mac

Paid audio recording software can save you time and stress for making long podcast episodes. Consider one of these programs if you need special tools like voice effects.

Adobe Audition

If you already have Adobe Creative Suite, then you have access to Audition. To get it solo, it'll cost you per month.

This podcast recording software is one of the most advanced yet user-friendly programs out there. It's ideal if you use multiple microphones in your podcasts or mixing.

Audition's specialty is editing and producing audio. It doesn't come with music support tools like those for MIDI. It does come with advanced features like quick batch processing and an FX system.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS

Pros:

  • Repairs damaged audio
  • Great for fine-tuning
  • Presets and templates available

Cons:

  • No music creation
  • Learning curve

Spreaker Studio

A free account on Spreaker's website lets you host multiple podcast episodes. You get maximum storage of 5 audio hours before it asks you to upgrade.

Free Podcast App For Mac Computer

Spreaker's built-in recording system makes your voice sound clear and professional. You have the option to live stream, too.

Once you've finished a project, Spreaker streamlines the process of posting it to hosting sites like Deezer. Plus, the paid version gives you an analytics dashboard and monetization tools.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • iOS
  • Android
For

Pros:

  • Free hosting
  • Intuitive design
  • Cross-platform apps

Cons:

  • Need to pay for advanced support
  • Limited customer service

Hindenburg Journalist

Hindenburg Journalist is one of the best podcast recording software for storytelling. It automatically levels audio as you speak. So when you play it back, extra noises like air conditioning and breathing are already gone.

It has a unique ClipBoard feature that's useful if you need to combine many snippets. You can save several audios on the clipboard to edit in later.

These features make Hindenburg Journalist popular for radio broadcasters and podcasters. It's pricey but a worthy investment for serious recorders.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS

Pros:

  • Crystal clear voice processing
  • Many tutorials available
  • Auto-leveling function

Cons:

  • Little support for music
  • Expensive plans

Reaper

Reaper finds a balance between price and quality. Its basic package has tools for beat making, songwriting, and film scoring. If you don't want to buy it immediately, it has a 60 day trial period.

Another unique feature is how customizable it is. Its user interface is simple, but you can download skins to personalize your workspace.

Reaper's team responds to user requests fast, so you get frequent updates. Some people feel overwhelmed by how many features it has, but that's part of what makes it worth the view.

Supported OS:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux

Pros:

  • Live streaming capabilities
  • Lightweight, fast speed
  • Multitrack recording

Cons:

  • Few tutorials
  • No mobile app

Alitu

Alitu's main strength is an automated DAW. After uploading or recording your audio, it'll offer features like noise and hum reduction for you automatically.

You can use its theme music builder to add branding to your podcast. However, it is browser only. While it can record your audio without internet access, you may want to do it under strong WIFI for better quality.

Alitu offers a monthly or yearly subscription. If you don't mind the browser-format, then this is worth a shot.

Supported OS:

  • Fully web-based

Pros:

  • Intro tutorials included
  • Theme music maker
  • Automated edits

Cons:

  • Browser only
  • Not customizable

The Best Podcast Recording Apps for iPhone and Android

Now podcast recording is not limited to a fancy studio with professional devices. You can make podcasts anywhere as long as you installed the best podcast recording app on your iPhone or Android phone. These applications work as excellently as the software above. And some even have set up creator-friendly communities for you to grow more audiences.

Anchor

Anchor, developed by Spotify, is devoted to providing users the easiest way to make podcasts. It gets popular among beginners and hobbyist podcasters for its one-stop shop for podcasting. In Anchor, you can record, edit, distribute, and monetize podcasts on iPhone and Android without a steep learning curve.

Besides general audio recording from the mic of your phone, you can import audio files from the built-in audio library. And it even allows you to co-record with up to 4 guests, which makes it the best app for interview podcasts.

And its intuitive editing platform helps many beginners to add background tracks, sound effects, and transitions without switching to professional software.

Supported OS:

  • iOS
  • iPadOS
  • Android

Pros:

  • Completely free on iPhone, iPad, and Android
  • Compatible with most external microphones and devices
  • Distribute podcasts to Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts with one tap

Cons:

  • Only record podcasts in M4A format
  • Not ideal for complex music and instruments podcasts

PodBean

PodBean is a famous podcast app on mobile devices built with a professional audio recorder. While recording the broadcast, you can add vivid effects and background music, tweak the tone, and adjust the volume in real-time.

And it comes with a simple post-production tool. When the recording is finished, you can merge, split, and trim the audio file in just a few taps.

To bring your story to the world instantly, you can connect your accounts on other social media platforms to this app. Then it'll share your podcast as soon as you finish the post-editing.

Supported OS:

  • iOS
  • iPadOS
  • Android

Pros:

Best Podcast Software For Mac

  • Rich background music stock
  • Engaging audio live streaming services
  • Real-time report of your podcast performances

Cons:

Best podcast editing software mac
  • Annoying ads on unsubscribe version

SoundCloud

SoundCloud, one of the largest music and audio streaming platforms, has gathered many artists, musicians, writers, and sports celebrities, etc.

The free version of SoundCloud is mainly designed for listeners. If you are going to record and publish podcasts on this platform. You need to upgrade to SoundCloud Go which costs $5.99/month.

Free Podcast Software For Mac

Since it's developed for sharing pre-made high-quality music, its native podcast recorder and editor are less versatile than its peers. It only allows you to record via the mic of your smartphone, shorten the recorded podcast, and add fade-in/-out effects to the recording.

Supported OS:

  • iOS
  • iPadOS
  • Android
FreeBest free podcast app for mac

Pros:

  • Simple and intuitive
  • Create for indie musicians to promote their works

Cons:

  • Limited post-editing features
  • Can't record a podcast longer than 3 hours

Online Podcast Recorders

Some podcast tools operate solely online. Shaky WIFI doesn't have to deter you from recording on them, though. Here are a few honorable mentions for web-based audio recording software, and how to use them.

Zencastr

Zencastr can record your Skype and Google Hangout interviews with Zoom-like tools. Currently, you can download it on Google Chrome and Firefox.

The instructions are simple:

  • Send your meeting link to your guest.
  • Hit record.
  • Hit Stop Recording when you've finished.
  • Wait for the audio to completely process before closing the browser.

When the video is complete, you'll have two separate audio files.

Squadcast

Squadcast's strength is how crisp and clear its audio quality is when you compare it to Zoom and Skype. It also offers a fair price per month. To record a video, you have to:

  • Go to your dashboard.
  • Create a new session
  • Send your guest the invite link/input their email
  • Hit Record, then Stop when you're finished.
  • Download your video as a WAV or MP3

Best Podcast App Mac

If you want to save space on your computer, you can also choose to view the audio as a browser link.

Podcast App

Final Words

Ultimately, your podcast's content is more important than what audio software you use. Still, certain DAWs make the recording process much easier. Because of that, podcasting becomes more enjoyable. Make your choice based on what will make podcasting recording easiest for you and your needs.