Of all the various bits of multimedia we can add to our blogs and Facebook Fan Pages, it seems to me that audio is the least used. We could debate endlessly about why that is, but I don’t think we’d come to any consensus. The one thing I don’t think we can say anymore, however, is that there aren’t any options out there for hosted audio.
AudioBoo, a service that’s been used in the past by actor and comedian Stephen Fry and by tech podcaster Leo Laporte, provides an easy option for recording audio directly from an iPhone or from the Web. Just like YouTube, it provides an easy cut-and-paste block of code to help you embed an episode into your Website. And, just like nearly every social site in existence, it provides an opportunity to network with other audio bloggers and podcasters.
Cinch is an up and coming rival to AudioBoo that’s currently hyping contributors such as Bill Cosby and technology writer Robert Scoble. It allows users to record via an iPhone app or a computer, just like AudioBoo, but it also offers a dial-in option that can be accessed from any phone.
Utterli, though once a reliable option, is currently quite buggy. I can’t recommend it as a service right now, but I would keep an eye on it, in the event that they sort out their issues. It also offers a dial-in option.
So, now that you have some choices, the big question is: Why audio? Well, here are three reasons:
- Audio requires less prep. Yes, a good microphone (if you’re recording at your computer) is important. But, you don’t need to look your best if you’re recording audio only. And you don’t have to worry about lighting either.
- Audio can be consumed easier on the go. Audio is a perfect way to target customers and prospects when they’re running or driving. It’s also easier to consume in the background, while other work is getting done.
- Audio can be recorded just as easily as video. With the rise of the apps mentioned above, it’s now just as easy to record an audio program as it has been to whip out a Flip Cam and capture a clip for YouTube.
So, what do you think? Are you going to give audio a try on this Fun Stuff Friday?
