In the 1950s, it was very complicated to do a recording with multiple instruments, and if someone in the band played his part wrong, everyone had to go from the beginning. Now, with the help of advanced technologies, every single error can be easily fixed, and there is no need to sacrifice the rest of the recording. You can easily record your podcast on separate tracks and channels, manipulate the volume, add effects, and combine audio recorded in other places. Now you have access to a wide variety of multitrack recording options due to various hardware and software solutions.
What is a multitrack recording?
A multitrack recorder is a perfect solution for recording separately different sound sources. For example, while creating a song, you can record the singer, the electric guitar, the drums, and other instruments on separate tracks, and it will save your time and make accessible the editing process. The same is for podcasts. With the help of multitrack recording, you can record each speaker on separate tracks and also add additional tracks for effects or music, then combine them all in one.
There are two types of multitrack recording: Analogue (Hardware) and Digital (Software).
Hardware Multitrack
Hardware multitrack recorders are devices that allow you to record several tracks sequentially to line up your audio and create a perfect concoction. These physical pieces of hardware are more straightforward in use. It could seem a bit irrational to use a hardware multitrack recorder in a world where software is leading. But software may be complex and confusing to use, especially for a newbie. Multitrack recorders offer a simple variation to record an inspired work. Our top recommendations for beginners are:
1. Tascam DP-006 6-Track
This portable 6-track recorder can hold up to 32GB and offers cd quality sound. You'll have two mono tracks and two mono/stereo switchable tracks that will allow you to mix several tracks into different mix placements.
+ Portable/lightweight
+ Simple user interface
+ 2 Built-in Mics
+ 6-track recorders
2. Zoom H4N PRO Digital
This four-channel recorder includes built-in stereo X/Y microphones, records at a 24-bit capacity, and has 2 XLR/TRS inputs. All your records will be stored directly on the 32 GB SD card.
+ Portability
+ Built-in condenser mics
+ 32GB memory
+ 4 Channel recording
Software multitrack
If you prefer a digital recorder and a more modern way of recording, there is a wide variety of multitrack software recorders. Today all laptops, computers, and phones are capable of recording audio with their built-in sound cards, but for podcast recording, it is better to consider an audio interface. Let's check a few top options of multitrack software recorders below:
Podcastle
Podcastle is a new AI-based Podcast recording app with several handy built-in features that will allow you to produce a qualified podcast. With Podcastle you can record multitrack remote interviews or from several mics in person. Then Podcastle will automatically provide a single transcript, and you will be able to edit every track and work on each individually.
Audacity
Audacity is an open-source and free multitrack audio recorder and editor. It is easy to use without having a learning curve. With Audacity, you will be able to record live audio, splice, cut, and edit it in one place and then export your finished episode into different file formats. You can check detailed tutorials that will guide you on doing it.
Adobe Audition
If you need a premium option available for both Mac and PCs, Adobe Audition is a perfect choice. This software provides both single and multitrack recording and includes built-in presets to make qualified audio.
GarageBand
GarageBand is another popular audio recorder and editor. While it’s more focused on musical recording, it also works for vocal-dominated podcasts.
GarageBand has a simple user interface and lets you delete and edit sections of your audio file or slide to reorder segments. The addition of sound effects and music overlays, combined with compression and visual equalization, will enhance the quality of your recording.
Riverside
Riverside is a web-based podcast recording tool that captures high-quality audio and video. It provides multitrack recording, which is mandatory for podcast recording. It helps to record each speaker separately, stores the files on each person’s computer, and later syncs them together. You can edit them individually during the postproduction and produce a superb overall recording. Riverside also works directly with your browser, so you don’t need to download additional software.
Squadcast
Squadcast is another browser-based multitrack recording option. This tool focuses on recording high-quality audio and now also includes mobile recording features. Another outstanding feature is their video capabilities, allowing you and your co-host or guest to see each other as you record.
Zoom
This is an excellent option for conducting interviews and conferences for free. All you need to do is provide your guest with a link, and they'll get access to the chat room directly from their browser. Zoom offers a great recording, even if your connection isn't perfect. This option also allows multitrack recordings and lets you store your audio locally by selecting the “record on this computer” setting.
Alitu
With Alitu, podcasters can record their co-hosted shows and interviews easily. It includes excellent features that will let you clean up automatically, from noise reduction to leveling when the call is finished. Then, the recordings are dropped directly into the Alitu episode builder. The host can add intros and outros, edit the recordings, add adverts or transitions, and then export the episode.
Conclusion
Recording a multitrack podcast will help you produce high-quality audio, save your time, give you better control and flexibility during editing, and make your life easier.
Good Luck!
