RecordPad Review

RecordPad is ideal for recording voice and other audio, and is very simple to use.

RecordPad Review

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

RecordPad misses the mark on file format compatibility, but has outstanding performance and functionality otherwise.

Pros

  • +

    Plenty of ripping and burning options

  • +

    Good for basic recording

Cons

  • -

    Extremely limited file format compatibility

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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 Review: Features

The 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.

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.

(Image credit: NCH Software)

RecordPad Review: Recording

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’re not going to work with those formats, then this isn’t 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.

(Image credit: NCH Software)

RecordPad review: Technical Help

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’s 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. And 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.

Suzanne Humphries

Suzanne loves reviewing, playing with and owning all-things tech, especially if it pertains to hardware or video games. When she's not hard at work, you can find her hard at play, travelling, taking photos, gaming, reading, and listening to punk & ska. She currently works as an Associate Editor at Review Geek.