Podcasting expert Andy Affleck is back with a new version of his Take Control of Podcasting on the Mac ebook. This new version 2.1 is fully updated for GarageBand ’09, so if you own the latest version of iLife, you can now follow along properly in GarageBand as Andy provides provides start-to-finish guidance on rolling your own podcast.

The 121-page ebook leads off by discussing how to plan a podcast's topic, format, and polish. Then you'll learn the practical details of choosing the right microphone and audio software, followed by step-by-step instructions for recording using Audio Hijack Pro, GarageBand, Sound Studio, WireTap Studio, and Ubercaster, with advice about conducting interviews by phone, iChat, and Skype. Once your audio is in the can, Andy explains how to use audio plug-ins to make it sound better, complete with downloadable sound files to supplement the text. He also explains how to edit out any awkward bits, plug in additional audio, and mix tracks. Finally, Andy walks you through how to encode a podcast, add useful tags and chapters, find a publishing tool, and publish your podcast for the world to hear.

The ebook also includes a coupon worth $3 off on either Audio Hijack Pro or Fission. Or save $14 off both.

If you already own version 2.0, click Check for Updates on the first page of the version 2.0 PDF for a free update.

Listen to Andy talk about the ebook.

—Posted by Adam C. Engst on July 10, 2009