Zencastr is a web-based podcasting platform that enables users to record, edit, and publish professional-quality podcasts entirely online. Originally built for remote podcast recording, Zencastr has expanded into an all-in-one podcast production suite that includes studio-grade audio and video capture, automatic post-production, transcription, and publishing tools.
It is designed for podcasters of all levels—from solo creators and interview hosts to full production teams. With its browser-based approach, there’s no need for software downloads or complex setup. All participants need is a link to join a session and start recording.
Features
Zencastr offers a range of features designed to simplify podcast production while maintaining high-quality output.
Studio-Quality Remote Recording
Zencastr captures each participant’s audio and video locally in lossless quality, then uploads the files to the cloud. This avoids issues caused by internet lag or dropouts.
Video Podcast Recording
Users can record high-definition video podcasts with separate tracks for each guest. This allows for more control in editing and a polished final product.
Separate Audio Tracks
Each speaker is recorded on an individual track, making post-production cleaner and more manageable. Background noise and interruptions are easier to isolate and remove.
Built-in Post-Production
Zencastr offers automatic enhancements like volume leveling, noise reduction, and audio mastering with just a click, saving hours of manual editing.
Cloud Backup and Instant Upload
All recordings are saved locally and then instantly uploaded to the cloud, reducing the risk of data loss during remote sessions.
Transcription
AI-powered transcriptions make it easier to create show notes, captions, or repurpose episodes into articles and blogs.
Publishing and Hosting
Zencastr provides free podcast hosting, including RSS feed generation and distribution to major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
Live Editing and Soundboard
Users can insert intros, outros, and ad spots during recording using a built-in soundboard, allowing for faster turnaround and less editing later.
Collaboration Tools
The platform allows for multi-user sessions and project collaboration, useful for teams working together on production.
Browser-Based Interface
No need to download software. Hosts and guests join through a browser link, making setup easy for all parties.
How It Works
To start, users create an account on Zencastr and set up a new recording session. Hosts can invite guests via a shareable link. Once everyone joins the session, Zencastr begins recording audio and video directly from each participant’s device.
During recording, files are saved locally to avoid internet disruptions and automatically uploaded to the cloud. After the session, users can apply automated post-production enhancements or manually download the raw files for editing in external software.
With built-in hosting, podcasters can publish their episodes directly from the Zencastr dashboard, making the entire workflow—from recording to release—completely seamless.
Use Cases
Zencastr supports a wide range of content creators, professionals, and organizations.
Podcast Creators
Independent podcasters use Zencastr to record interviews, co-hosted shows, and solo episodes with top-quality audio and video.
Content Creators and YouTubers
Creators can record video podcasts or repurpose the content for YouTube, reels, and other visual platforms.
Remote Teams
Companies use Zencastr to produce branded podcasts and internal communications across distributed teams.
Journalists and Media Outlets
News and media professionals use the platform to record remote interviews, expert commentary, and panel discussions.
Agencies and Production Studios
Audio producers use Zencastr to streamline remote client sessions, reduce editing time, and ensure professional output.
Educators and Trainers
Teachers and trainers use Zencastr for course content, lectures, and interviews with subject matter experts.
Pricing
Zencastr offers several pricing plans to meet the needs of both casual podcasters and professional studios.
Free Plan
Includes unlimited audio recordings, up to two guests, basic post-production, and cloud backups.
Creator Plus Plan
Offers multitrack video recording, unlimited guests, full post-production tools, and advanced editing capabilities.
Professional Plan
Designed for teams and agencies, this plan includes team collaboration, live editing, and priority support.
Add-ons
Additional storage and transcription hours can be purchased based on usage.
For the latest and detailed pricing information, visit the Zencastr pricing page.
Strengths
Zencastr offers multiple advantages that make it a go-to solution for podcasters and content creators.
High-Quality Audio and Video
The platform records locally and uploads in high resolution, resulting in studio-level clarity without needing a studio setup.
Easy to Use
No technical skills are required. Guests can join via a link, making it easy for non-technical users to participate in episodes.
All-in-One Platform
From recording to editing and publishing, Zencastr covers every step of the podcast production process in one place.
Post-Production Automation
Automatic noise reduction and audio leveling reduce the time and expertise needed to produce polished content.
Reliable Cloud Storage
Recordings are automatically backed up to the cloud, minimizing the risk of losing content.
Great for Remote Teams
Designed with remote collaboration in mind, it’s ideal for teams working from different locations.
Drawbacks
While Zencastr is robust, a few limitations might be worth noting.
Browser Dependency
It works best in Google Chrome. Users on other browsers may face compatibility issues.
Limited Live Streaming
As of now, Zencastr does not support live broadcasting to platforms like YouTube or Facebook.
Advanced Editing Limitations
Although it includes post-production, users requiring detailed edits may still need external tools like Audacity or Adobe Audition.
Storage Limits on Free Plan
Long-term storage and advanced features require a paid subscription.
Occasional Sync Issues
Some users report minor syncing issues in longer recordings, though these are usually resolved by recording locally.
Comparison with Other Tools
Compared to tools like Riverside.fm and SquadCast, Zencastr offers similar quality and ease of use but stands out for its integrated post-production and free hosting features.
Unlike Zoom, which is not designed for high-quality podcasting, Zencastr delivers professional-grade audio and video specifically for creators.
Against Descript, which focuses heavily on editing and transcription, Zencastr is more streamlined for capturing and publishing podcasts with minimal effort.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Podcasters consistently praise Zencastr for its sound quality, ease of use, and professional recording features. Independent creators highlight the convenience of browser-based recording and the ability to collaborate remotely without compromising quality.
Teams appreciate the all-in-one approach, which reduces the need to juggle multiple tools. The addition of video recording and hosting makes it an increasingly attractive option for creators looking to expand their reach.
Common positive feedback includes the reliability of local file backup, the clarity of separate audio tracks, and the simplicity of post-production automation.
Conclusion
Zencastr is a powerful, user-friendly platform for podcast creators and remote teams that want to record, edit, and publish high-quality content without complex workflows. With its browser-based interface, local recording technology, and integrated hosting, Zencastr streamlines the entire podcast production process.
Whether you’re just starting a podcast or looking to upgrade your remote production setup, Zencastr delivers the tools you need to sound professional and work efficiently.
