Adobe Podcast AI Sounds Bad

Introduction

In this article, we'll explore Adobe Podcast AI, a beta tool that allows users to upload audio files — either WAV or MP3 — and process them to improve sound quality. The primary goal of this service is to remove background noise and make audio recordings sound as though they've been captured in a professional studio. I've demoed several recording scenarios to evaluate its performance, and here are my findings.

Part One: Demos and Tests

Test One: Recording in Less than Ideal Environments

For this test, I recorded my audio from six feet away using a Rode VideoMic Go. Here’s the raw audio from this setup. After processing it with Adobe Podcast AI, the background noise is minimal, with most issues relating to room reverb and microphone distance evident. I alternated between the raw and processed audio for comparison.

Test Two: Recording on the Go

In the second test, I recorded audio using the native voice memo app on my iPhone, capturing sound directly through the device. Again, I processed this audio with Adobe Podcast AI. The raw voice memo audio is noticeably inferior to the processed version — but how does it measure up?

Test Three: Phone Call Quality

Next, I simulated a poorly recorded phone call. The raw audio of this call sounded dreadful, and I hoped Adobe Podcast AI could help salvage it. However, it didn’t significantly improve the quality and the audio still sounded bad post-processing.

Test Four: Mic Technique Issues

I used a Blue Yeti microphone set to cardioid mode but spoke into it from the incorrect angle. I presented the raw audio first and then processed it through Adobe Podcast AI. While the results were mixed, the AI still made the audio sound somewhat robotic, rather than natural.

Test Five: Clipping and Distortion

For the fifth test, I recorded with the gain too high, creating distorted and clipped audio. I processed this through Adobe Podcast AI. Unfortunately, while it was an ambitious effort to fix the audio, the results were disappointing compared to raw audio.

Final Test: Good Quality Audio

Lastly, I recorded audio using a well-set-up system with good equipment and levels. Once processed through Adobe Podcast AI, I questioned whether it improved or degraded the audio.

Part Two: My Thoughts

Adobe Podcast AI excels at background noise rejection and can effectively remove distractions like keyboard sounds, fan noise, and room reverb. However, it struggles with clipping and cell phone audio. One of the biggest downsides is that the processed voice sounds overly robotic, reminiscent of a poor text-to-speech program.

For audio that is already recorded well, I find that Adobe Podcast AI doesn't add much value; instead, it often detracts from the quality. In scenarios where audio quality is lackluster, it may prove useful but should be used sparingly to preserve natural sound.

Part Three: Words of Warning

New tools like Adobe Podcast AI may tempt users to become lazy in audio recording practices. Remember: “garbage in, garbage out.” Always strive for the highest quality recordings prior to processing.

FAQs

1. What is Adobe Podcast AI?

Adobe Podcast AI is a beta tool that processes audio files to improve sound quality.

2. How does Adobe Podcast AI work?

Users upload audio files, and the AI processes the recordings to remove background noise and enhance clarity.

3. Can Adobe Podcast AI fix poorly recorded audio?

While it can mitigate some background noise and room reverb, it often fails to salvage badly distorted audio.

4. Does Adobe Podcast AI make audio sound robotic?

Yes, one of the downsides is that processed audio tends to sound overly mechanical, losing its natural tone.

5. When should I use Adobe Podcast AI?

Use it as a last resort if you have excessive background noise that is distracting for your audience, but it's usually better to capture clean audio initially.

Keyword

• Adobe Podcast AI
• Audio processing
• Background noise rejection
• Robotic voice
• Clipping
• Recording quality
• Audio enhancement

In summary, while Adobe Podcast AI presents intriguing possibilities for enhancing audio quality in challenging environments, its current limitations, particularly the robotic quality it often imparts, make it a tool to use cautiously. Focus on achieving high-quality recordings from the outset to make the most of your audio production efforts.