The podcast industry continues to boom.
As more creators enter the space, the need for reliable, high-quality recording solutions has never been greater.
While Zoom became the go-to platform during the pandemic for its accessibility and ease of use, podcast professionals are increasingly recognizing its limitations when it comes to audio quality, reliability, and podcast-specific features.
Whether you’re just starting your podcasting journey or looking to upgrade your current setup, moving beyond Zoom can significantly enhance your production value and streamline your workflow.
The following alternatives offer superior audio quality, more flexible recording options, and features tailored specifically for podcasters who want to deliver professional content to their growing audiences.
Take a look.
1. Riverside.fm
Riverside.fm has quickly become a favorite among professional podcasters, and for good reason.
Unlike Zoom, which relies on internet stability throughout the entire call, Riverside records locally on each participant’s device, then uploads the files to the cloud.
This approach, known as “progressive uploading,” ensures pristine audio quality regardless of internet fluctuations.
Key Features:
- Local recording up to 48kHz WAV audio files
- Separate audio and video tracks for each participant
- Automatic backup recordings in case of connection issues
- Studio-quality sound with lossless audio
- Video recording in up to 4K resolution
- Producer mode that allows a non-recording participant to manage the session
- Mobile app for guests who don’t have access to a computer
- Live streaming capabilities to YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook
Riverside.fm’s intuitive interface makes it accessible even for non-technical guests.
The platform also includes a “green room” feature that allows participants to test their equipment before joining the recording session, minimizing technical issues during your actual podcast.
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2. SquadCast
SquadCast has built its reputation on reliability and ease of use.
Like Riverside, it records each participant locally to prevent audio degradation from internet connectivity problems.
One standout feature is SquadCast’s patented Backup Recording™ technology, which creates multiple backup recordings to ensure you never lose an episode due to technical glitches.
Key Features:
- Progressive local recording for pristine audio quality
- Up to 10 participants per session
- Video recording capabilities with separate tracks
- Cloud-based backup system
- Green room for equipment testing
- Audio visualization to help prevent crosstalk
- Integration with popular DAWs like Adobe Audition and Logic Pro
- Unlimited recording time on higher-tier plans
SquadCast’s visual interface shows when each participant is speaking, helping to reduce interruptions and maintain a smooth conversation flow.
The platform also offers excellent customer support, making it a great choice for podcasters who value reliability and service.
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3. Cleanfeed
Cleanfeed brings professional broadcast studio capabilities to your browser.
Developed by radio professionals, it offers uncompromising audio quality that makes it particularly well-suited for music-focused podcasts, interviews with musicians, or any content where audio fidelity is paramount.
Key Features:
- Studio-quality audio recording up to 48kHz
- Professional mixing console interface
- Advanced audio routing capabilities
- Echo cancellation and noise reduction
- Recording matrix for complex multi-person setups
- Support for external audio devices and mixing boards
- Optional video for communication (audio-only recording)
- ISDN replacement features for broadcast professionals
Cleanfeed Pro adds additional features like multi-track recording, which gives you maximum flexibility in post-production.
While it has a steeper learning curve than some alternatives, the platform rewards users with exceptional audio quality and professional-grade control.
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4. Cast
Cast distinguishes itself by offering an all-in-one platform that handles recording, editing, and publishing.
The integrated approach makes it an excellent choice for podcasters who want to streamline their workflow and maintain everything within a single ecosystem.
Key Features:
- Browser-based recording with separate tracks
- Built-in editing tools for quick post-production
- Direct publishing to major podcast directories
- Episode analytics and listener metrics
- Custom website for your podcast
- Remote guest invitation system
- Unlimited storage for recordings
- Basic sound processing tools
Cast’s publishing tools make it especially valuable for new podcasters who might be overwhelmed by the technical aspects of distribution.
The platform handles RSS feed creation and maintenance, allowing creators to focus on content rather than technical details.
5. Remotely.fm
Remotely.fm was built from the ground up with podcasters in mind, focusing on reliability and simplicity.
The platform emphasizes a “what you see is what you get” approach, making it particularly accessible for those new to remote recording.
Key Features:
- Local recording with automatic cloud backup
- Separate tracks for each participant
- Intuitive, minimalist interface
- Real-time audio level monitoring
- Quick share links for guests
- Optional video for communication
- Automatic mic and speaker detection
- Minimal setup requirements for guests
Remotely.fm excels at creating a frictionless experience for podcast guests, requiring no account creation or software downloads.
This makes it ideal for podcasters who frequently interview non-technical guests or want to minimize pre-recording setup time.
6. Streamyard
While primarily developed as a live streaming solution, Streamyard has become increasingly popular among podcasters who want visually engaging content and seamless guest management.
Its studio-like interface makes it easy to create professional-looking shows with minimal technical knowledge.
Key Features:
- Broadcasting to multiple platforms simultaneously
- On-screen graphics and branded elements
- Easy screen sharing and media display
- Up to 10 on-screen participants
- Comment integration from streaming platforms
- Recording capabilities for later editing
- Custom backgrounds and overlays
- Interview scheduling system
Streamyard is particularly valuable for podcasters who want to repurpose their content across multiple channels, including YouTube and social media platforms.
Its visual production capabilities allow for creating engaging video podcasts with professional branding.
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7. Zencastr
Zencastr focuses on simplicity and reliability, making it an excellent choice for podcasters who want a no-frills solution that consistently delivers high-quality results.
Its streamlined interface prioritizes core functionality over advanced features.
Key Features:
- Browser-based recording with separate audio tracks
- Automatic local recording with cloud backup
- Simple, intuitive user interface
- Minimal bandwidth requirements
- Basic audio enhancement tools
- Easy file sharing after recording
- Quick setup for hosts and guests
- Recording quality indicator
Zencastr’s strength lies in its reliability and ease of use.
The platform is designed to work even on modest internet connections, making it a solid choice for podcasters or guests in areas with limited connectivity.
8. Podbean Live
From the established podcast hosting company, Podbean Live combines live broadcasting with recording capabilities, creating new possibilities for audience engagement.
It’s particularly well-suited for podcasters who want to incorporate listener participation into their shows.
Key Features:
- Live broadcasting with simultaneous recording
- Listener call-in functionality
- Chat integration for audience interaction
- Direct publishing to your Podbean-hosted podcast
- Co-host and guest management
- Sound effect board
- Monetization through virtual gifts
- Social media integration for promotion
Podbean Live creates opportunities for real-time audience engagement that traditional recording methods can’t match.
For podcasters looking to build community and interaction around their content, this platform offers unique advantages.
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9. Descript
Descript represents a radical reimagining of the podcast production process.
Rather than treating audio and text as separate elements, Descript transcribes your recordings and allows you to edit the audio by editing the text.
Delete a word in the transcript, and it disappears from the audio as well.
Key Features:
- Text-based audio editing
- Automatic transcription
- Studio Sound for automatic audio enhancement
- Overdub voice synthesis for corrections
- Filler word removal (“um,” “uh,” etc.)
- Collaborative editing capabilities
- Screen recording with transcription
- Audiogram creation for social media sharing
Descript’s innovative approach can dramatically speed up the editing process, particularly for interview-based podcasts that require significant editing.
Its Studio Sound feature also automatically enhances audio quality, addressing common issues like room echo and background noise.
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Conclusion
While Zoom served as an adequate starting point for many podcasters, particularly during the remote work revolution, these dedicated alternatives offer significant advantages in audio quality, reliability, and workflow efficiency.
The right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. Prioritize audio quality with Riverside or Cleanfeed, streamline your workflow with Cast or Descript, or engage with your audience using Podbean Live.
Many of these platforms offer free trials or tiered pricing, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect fit for your podcast.
As your show grows, the investment in specialized recording software will pay dividends in production quality and time savings.
Your listeners will appreciate the professional sound, and you’ll benefit from the streamlined workflows these podcast-focused platforms provide.
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