The right tools for the job

Gear recommendations

The Tools section of transom.org has a huge number of incredible reviews covering software, microphones, recorders, and more.

This Google Sheet called Podcast Gear List 2022-23 has recommendations of entry, intermediate, and expert level gear. Prices listed are in Indian Rupees.

If you’re doing a video podcast, be sure to get the best lighting that you can with your budget. The Audacity to Podcast! blog has some lighting recommendations with links for purchase. (They have recommendations for all sorts of things from video and audio to WordPress themes.)

This article on Just Creative about ring lights has great recommendations and tips for how to choose the right ring light for your needs.

Recording

Screen recording on an Apple device. If you use an Apple device for AAC, here’s quick instructions on recording your screen.

YR Media has a whole DIY resource page for reporters and producers. Check out their DIY Toolkit: Fundamentals Of Field Recording for great tips on getting great sound.

Editing

Reaper is an affordable, screen reader-accessible audio editor or Digital Audio Workstation. Check out this Reaper Accessibility Wiki with access to tutorials and info to get started with downloading and operating Reaper with a screen reader.

Audacity is a free, open source audio recording and multitrack editing application that works on Windows, macOS, and GNU/Linux. Many of the software’s features are screen reader accessible or work for editors not using a mouse. You can go to Muse Hub to get Audacity along with extra editing tools, free sound effects and musical sounds.

Descript is an AI-powered tool you can use to record, transcribe, edit, make clips, and publish your podcast all in one place. No audio editing experience needed to use it. Descript offers some accessibility features, but it is not fully optimized for screen reader compatibility such as NVDA or JAWS. Descript has made accessibility improvements over time and encourages feedback to enhance their tools for users with disabilities.

Hosting

TechRadar put together a list of some top podcast hosts and tips on how to choose the right one for you.