Podcast Plugins 101: What They Are and How to Use Them Like a Pro 🎙️

If you're producing a podcast, you’ve likely heard of audio plugins - but what exactly are they, and how can they elevate your sound quality?

Whether you're using basic built-in tools or have never touched a plugin before, this guide will walk you through the essentials, helping you transform raw recordings into polished, professional audio.

What Are Audio Plugins?

An audio plugin is a virtual tool that enhances, fixes, or manipulates sound inside your digital audio workstation (DAW). Think of them like filters on Instagram - they improve, correct, or completely change the way something sounds.

While DAWs like Reaper, Pro Tools, and Audacity come with basic processing tools, dedicated plugins offer way more control and precision.

Types of Podcast Plugins: The Must-Have Categories

🔹 Noise Reduction – Removes background hum, fan noise, or distant traffic sounds.

🔹 EQ (Equalization) – Balances and shapes the tone of voices.

🔹 Compression – Smooths out volume inconsistencies, making speech more even.

🔹 De-essing – Reduces harsh "S" and "T" sounds for a smoother listen.

🔹 Reverb/Room Tone – Adds subtle warmth or space to recordings when needed.

Essential Plugins for Podcasters 🎛️

1️⃣ RX 11 Standard (iZotope) – The Audio Lifesaver

👉 Best for: Removing background noise, clicks, plosives, and improving overall clarity.

Most podcasters struggle with background noise, mic pops, and inconsistent vocal clarity - this is where RX 11 shines. With tools like Voice De-noise and De-plosive, it can clean up almost any audio issue automatically.

✅ Why you need it: Even the best mics pick up unwanted noise—this plugin makes your audio sound crisp and clean.

2️⃣ Waves Clarity VX – AI-Powered Voice Enhancement

👉 Best for: Isolating voice from background noise without losing quality.

A game-changer for podcasters who record in non-studio environments. Unlike traditional noise reduction, Waves Clarity intelligently enhances speech without making it sound robotic.

✅ Why you need it: Perfect if you record at home, in coffee shops, or with unavoidable background noise.

3️⃣ FabFilter Pro-Q 3 – The Gold Standard for EQ

👉 Best for: Balancing vocal tone and removing muddiness or harshness.

EQ is essential for getting that rich, radio-quality voice. FabFilter Pro-Q 3 is an industry-standard tool for shaping vocals without distorting them.

✅ Why you need it: If your podcast sounds boomy, hollow, or dull, this fixes it.

4️⃣ Accentize dxRevive – AI-Powered Dialogue Restoration

👉 Best for: Restoring poor-quality recordings or removing room echo.

If you’ve ever had a guest with a bad mic, Zoom audio, or excessive reverb, dxRevive magically cleans it up. Using AI, it makes voices clearer and fuller - even from low-quality sources.

✅ Why you need it: Saves bad recordings and makes them sound pro-level.

5️⃣ FabFilter Pro-C 2 – The Ultimate Compressor

👉 Best for: Controlling volume levels and making speech sound polished.

A compressor helps maintain consistent volume, making sure your podcast doesn’t have quiet whispers followed by loud peaks. FabFilter Pro-C 2 gives you full control over smoothing out your audio.

✅ Why you need it: Keeps voices even and pleasant to listen to.

How to Use Plugins in Your Podcast Workflow 🎛️

1️⃣ Record as cleanly as possible – Plugins help, but good mic technique is still key.

2️⃣ Use noise reduction first – Remove hums, clicks, and background noise before adding anything else.

3️⃣ Apply EQ to shape the tone – Reduce muddiness, add warmth, and make speech stand out.

4️⃣ Compress for balance – Keep all voices at a consistent volume for easy listening.

5️⃣ Final touches – Light de-essing for sharp "S" sounds, and a little reverb if needed.

Final Thoughts: Plugins Make Your Podcast Sound Pro

The difference between an amateur podcast and a professional one is in the details. Using smart plugins like RX 11, Waves Clarity, and FabFilter can instantly elevate your production quality.

🚀 Need help optimizing your podcast sound? We offer professional editing services starting at just $49. Let’s make your podcast sound amazing!

🎙️ Ready to level up? Contact us today!