RecordPad is from NCH Software, and as such is part of a much larger range of digital audio applications designed for a multitude of software and hardware platforms. It is a recording tool that supports audio feeds from multiple channels, and NCH Software has developed other audio applications to complement RecordPad. It sits among our list of the best voice recording software because it is easier to use, and has good ripping capabilities.
RecordPad: FeaturesThe audio recording software can support audio feed/input from all sources if you use the application default settings and the 'loop cable' method. Whether you just want to use a microphone to record your voice, or you want to capture audio via a line-in device, internet streaming or audio playback from the computer, this software can handle it.
NCH Software RecordPad subscription options:
12 month plan - $0 per month ($0 total cost)
RecordPad has the most impressive array of options for recording, ripping or burning audio of any application in our comparison. It allows you to set a record timer for a future recording, where you can specify things like a recording's starting point and duration. The voice-activated recording function is handy as it helps reduce or eliminate lengthy silences and even save space on your hard drive.
Analog and digital ripping are supported, though with slightly limited functionality, as RecordPad is a standalone recording application. Plugins are required to perform editing, conversion and burning functions.
You have access to plenty of filters and effects that you can apply to your audio files, including reverberation, pitch shifting, noise reduction, fades, equalizing, pop and click removal, and file compression. You can easily add and edit metadata and insert or remove a silence.
The one major shortfall of the program is its lack of compatibility with various file formats. It is limited to MP3, WAV and FLAC formats, whereas others, like BlazeMediaPro, are compatible with many more formats, including WMA, MIDI, M4A and AAC. However, if you know you are not going to work with those formats, then this is not a problem.
The software has a customizable interface and a large variety of options you can customize to make the program better serve your needs. It even has a bookmark function, which allows you to mark places within an audio file for easy reference in the future. RecordPad is easy to use and available for all recent versions of Windows and Mac OS X.
Besides the bundled help files, NCH Software's website features email and phone support, as well as other indirect informational resources such as a community user forum, a FAQs section and update support. From our tests, we were impressed by the software's abilities and performance, as well as the customer service, especially considering it is the least costly application in our comparison - besides Audacity, which is free.
The RecordPad program offers the most record, rip and burn options, as well as the widest input source options of any program in our lineup. In addition, even though it lacks a few audio editing options and only has limited file format compatibility, the program is solid overall and rather easy to use.
Pros
Plenty of ripping and burning options
Good for basic recording
Cons
Extremely limited file format compatibility
RecordPad misses the mark on file format compatibility, but has outstanding performance and functionality otherwise.
