The hottest Audio Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Self-recommending

In My Tribe • 136 implied HN points • 17 Feb 26
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Two former high-school classmates recorded a podcast interview together.
  2. The interviewee was very tired, but the host kept a good pace and the conversation turned out better than expected.
  3. The episode is shared for listeners to check out and enjoy.

Train Surgery

atomic14 • 692 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Four AA batteries were replaced with a single 18650 Li‑ion cell plus a charger/protection/boost module set to about 5.5 V, making the train rechargeable.
  2. A potentiometer was put in series with one speaker lead to act as a simple volume control, and a homemade knob was added so the control is accessible from outside.
  3. The conversion achieves rechargeable power and adjustable volume, but the drivetrain’s plastic gears still make loud mechanical clatter at low volume.

Goodbye to the Age of the Book

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 565 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Audio
  1. Reading long books has declined in cultural importance, with fewer people reading for pleasure and fewer whole books assigned in schools.
  2. Digital snippets on smartphones and oral formats like podcasts, YouTube, TikTok, and audiobooks are replacing deep reading as the dominant way people consume information.
  3. Even so, long books still offer unique depth and remain well worth the time for those who seek it.

How The Dossier will stand out in a sea of AI slop

The Dossier • 89 implied HN points • 09 Feb 26
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. AI is flooding the internet with quickly generated, low-quality content that often looks like human writing, so creators must adapt or get lost in the noise.
  2. Authentic video and audio—especially podcasting—are the clearest ways to prove a real human is behind the work and to stand out from AI-generated “slop.”
  3. Pairing traditional writing with verifiable multimedia keeps journalistic quality while highlighting genuine human insight, turning the AI surge into an opportunity for creators who can prove they’re real.

The Headphone Revolution: Sony’s MDR Series Through the Years

Obsolete Sony’s Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Sony has a long history of headphone innovation, starting from the 1960s with their first closed stereo headphones, the DR-4A. This set new standards in comfort and sound quality.
  2. In 1979, Sony changed the game with the MDR-3, which was lightweight and came with the original Walkman. This allowed people to listen to music anywhere, making portable audio popular.
  3. The introduction of noise-canceling headphones began in 1995 with the MDR-NC10, marking a huge advancement in listening technology. It helped users enjoy their music without distractions from their surroundings.
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Budget Little House

Disaffected Newsletter • 1039 implied HN points • 04 Nov 23
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Generosity from others helped the author recover from a flood disaster. It’s important to reach out for support when facing tough times.
  2. Creating a budget for living expenses is crucial for maintaining financial stability. Managing money wisely can help prevent financial difficulties in the future.
  3. Personal stories and experiences can bring people together and foster a sense of community. Sharing challenges and achievements can inspire others.

Reasonably Happy, Intelligent Partner, NYC event

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 757 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Even with new technologies, people in America aren’t feeling happier overall. Our social lives are falling apart, which seems to take away from any advances we might have made.
  2. Babies need to be close to their caregivers to feel secure, a trait built into us over thousands of years. They often have trouble sleeping alone because of this natural instinct.
  3. Younger people today seem to have a more negative view of certain groups compared to older generations. This shows a shift in attitudes over time that might be concerning.

I am righting a book

LOL (lots of links) • 884 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Audio
  1. The author is writing a book about Wikipedia's cultural history with goofy content.
  2. The author shares cool things they like, such as trademarked exclamation points, Zoom hangouts, and Jeopardy audio as a podcast.
  3. The author also talks about fake reviews in history, events at libraries, and their experience of feeling like they're getting away with writing a book.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 60

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. New Zealand has a lot of potential for AI growth because of its unique resources and recent changes in rules.
  2. Many people can't tell the difference in audio quality between high-quality files and regular MP3s, which can be surprising.
  3. Using lotteries to offer people cash can encourage them to make better life choices and do positive things.

On writing audio - Action sequences

Development Hell • 394 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Audio
  1. Writing for audio engages the listener actively, sparking imagination and partnership, similar to a novelist-reader relationship.
  2. In audio, the audience is called to conjure visuals in their mind's eye based on the sound cues provided, making it a participative experience.
  3. Subscribing to Development Hell offers a 7-day free trial to access full post archives, encouraging readers to continue exploring audio storytelling insights.

New Release: Complete Series Box

The Reader Crew • 196 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
📚 Literature Audio
  1. New box set by Daniel is available for just 99 cents, with over 1,400 pages of action.
  2. Virtual voice audiobooks and paperback editions for Artifact, Invasion, and Relic series are now available.
  3. Exciting new series from Daniel and project updates are coming soon.

Write it, then read it aloud

Substack • 995 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Using voiceovers can help writers connect better with their readers. It makes the content feel more personal and engaging.
  2. Writers who add audio or video to their posts tend to grow their audience and income faster. This shows how important diverse content is.
  3. Voiceovers can also provide bonus material for subscribers. This adds value to the content and encourages people to support the creator.

A Roundup (April 2024)

polymathematics • 59 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Podcasts can offer great insights. Listening to interviews with authors, directors, and creative professionals can inspire new ideas and spark interesting conversations.
  2. Reading different types of content helps us understand complex topics. Exploring articles about technology and history can give us new perspectives on current issues.
  3. Sharing personal projects and tools can be motivating. It's fun to discover new ways to express creativity and reflect on personal achievements.

MCU land, part 10: blocks all the way down

lcamtuf’s thing • 1224 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Using a 32-bit MCU was necessary for storing graphics assets like bitmaps and ensured smooth gameplay.
  2. The display quality is not just about resolution; advancements in technology like camera sensors and display panels also play a crucial role.
  3. Game development on microcontrollers involves considerations like random number generation, handling rapid player inputs, and optimizing rotations for a smooth gameplay experience.

Progress Report for Paid Subscribers #4

Trantor Publishing • 79 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
📚 Literature Audio
  1. The author is updating paid subscribers on the progress of exclusive content, like a short story, despite setbacks from family issues.
  2. There's a proposal to let subscribers decide on focusing efforts on finishing Gigaheroes, a popular serial, rather than returning to the regular schedule after disruptions.
  3. The author shares updates on completed audio chapters for The Domes of Calrathia and Gigaheroes, along with links to playlists for listeners.

Technically 2026 Last-minute Gift Guide

Technically • 18 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Audio
  1. Choose well-made, practical gifts that elevate everyday routines, like a smooth rollerball pen or a dependable chef's knife.
  2. Give audio gear to music lovers — a quality turntable plus good powered speakers and a subwoofer makes listening feel special.
  3. Think across budgets: comfortable, supportive shoes suit daily life, while neo-vintage watches or hand-finished knives offer lasting style and value.

There Are Now High-Quality Video Versions Of My Articles For People Who Prefer Video Format

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 544 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Caitlin Johnstone now offers high-quality video versions of her articles for those who prefer video format.
  2. The videos feature subtitles, a reading of the articles by her husband Tim, relevant screenshots, and occasional light-hearted moments.
  3. Caitlin Johnstone also provides audio versions of her articles on platforms like Soundcloud, Spotify, and other major podcast platforms.

The future of social media 🔮

The Digital Native • 137 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. The history of social media platforms reveals how they evolved over time from the first websites to the current popular ones.
  2. The future of social media is shifting towards more video content, engagement with photos, the rise of podcasts, and the importance of authentic self-expression.
  3. New platforms like Threads are emerging, offering unique ways for users to connect and share content, hinting at a return to more honest and less curated social media trends.

Tales from the jar side: Uncensored Java AI, Pirate audio in text messages, LangChain4J used my video 😀, and the usual tweets and toots

Tales from the jar side • 39 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. A Java project called the Ollama project allows you to run uncensored AI models locally, without sending data offsite.
  2. An application was created to generate pirate insults in audio files using the Twilio API and Text-to-Speech capability of OpenAI.
  3. LangChain4J, a competitor to Spring AI project, now has a website with tutorials, including a video featuring Ken Kousen.

Complete Visual Guide to Sony MiniDisc Blank Media (1992-2004)

Obsolete Sony’s Newsletter • 2 HN points • 18 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Sony's MiniDisc format started in 1992, offering basic models with different recording times, such as 60 and 74 minutes. This was the beginning of their journey into the MiniDisc market.
  2. Over the years, Sony introduced various colorful and uniquely designed MiniDiscs. Each new series often featured innovative designs and enhancements to attract users and improve functionality.
  3. By 2004, the Hi-MD format emerged with enhanced features and greater storage capacity. However, it struggled to compete with newer technologies and was discontinued a few years later.

Edge 444: Learn About Movie Gen: Meta AI's Amazing Audio-Video Generation Model

TheSequence • 77 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Meta has launched a new model called Movie Gen for generating audio and video, which is a big step for open source technology. This means more people can access and use advanced tools for media creation.
  2. Many video generation tools are still closed source, but there are some open-source projects like Stable Video that are trying to compete. However, they don't match the quality of commercial models just yet.
  3. Creating video AI models is harder than other types because it needs larger and more complex datasets. This makes it a challenging area for open-source developers to enter.

It’s a Media Roundup!

Ironic Sans • 248 implied HN points • 09 May 23
🎭️ Culture Audio
  1. David shares his recent media consumption including books, movies, TV shows, and video games.
  2. He enjoyed 'Red Team Blues: A Martin Hench Novel' for its unique protagonist and storyline.
  3. David also explores the disappointments and surprises in other media such as 'The Three-Body Problem' and 'Tetris', offering alternative suggestions and insights.

Exploring the world of social apps

SarHaribhakti's Newsletter • 254 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Anu Atluru discusses the intersection of creativity, risk-taking, and medicine in tech and startup worlds
  2. She shares insights on the complexities and nuances of the advice culture in the tech industry
  3. Anu highlights the importance of experimenting with new app mechanics in the consumer social landscape

Audio Dispatch for Paid Subscribers (6)

The Joyous Struggle • 19 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. The author shared an audio recording of their open letter to the human rights movement for a keynote talk at FORGE in NYU Law School, focusing on preparation and clarity in their arguments.
  2. The talk's title is 'The Inner Life of the Future: Governing with Collapse and Transformation in Mind', as the author prepares for a speech in New York.
  3. The author invites feedback on their audio reading and letter, emphasizing the importance of distillation and clarity in narrative.

Why Spotify’s Podcast Bet Failed

Divinations • 4 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Spotify's focus on exclusive podcast deals backfired because many users didn't find them worth switching apps for. Most listeners prefer a variety of content without being locked into one platform.
  2. Spotify ignored the core podcasting community and failed to provide the features creators wanted, like audience growth opportunities. Unlike YouTube, which supports creators with promotion and monetization, Spotify's approach was too limited.
  3. The company misjudged how listeners engage with podcasts. Instead of treating them as just another product, Spotify should have focused on building a community around podcasts and catered to dedicated fans.

The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu

Dan’s MEGA65 Digest • 11 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Audio can be generated on the MEGA65 through SID chips and Pulse-Code Modulation (PCM), which allows for reproducing real-world sounds but takes up a lot of memory space.
  2. The MEGA65 expansion board project aims to enhance the computer with features like component video output, Commodore user port, and tape port.
  3. Using audio DMA on the MEGA65, you can play digitized sound samples by controlling speaker membranes directly, even enabling playback of high-quality sound data and providing opportunities for creative sound manipulation.

Audio version of Letters from an American

Letters from an American • 10 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. Audio versions of 'Letters from an American' by Heather Cox Richardson are now available after years of requests.
  2. The audio versions will be free and accessible on Substack, Apple Podcast Channel, and other platforms.
  3. This initiative will be tested for three weeks, aiming to provide solid information leading up to the election.

CanJam 23 NYC: What's Ahead in Headphones

Resiliency Tech • 0 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. At CanJam, headphone enthusiasts are predominantly male, young, and willing to pay for small improvements in performance.
  2. Wireless Bluetooth headphones are improving but still lag behind wired models in performance.
  3. Headphone amplifiers are gaining popularity for driving hard-to-move drivers in headphones, yielding better performance at lower volumes.

Coming soon

Moral Mayhem Podcast • 0 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio
  1. A new podcast called Moral Mayhem is launching soon. It's likely to cover interesting and ethical topics.
  2. Listeners can subscribe to stay updated on new episodes. This shows there's a growing demand for discussions around morality.
  3. The podcast is linked to a Substack, which means there will be additional content and insights available. This can help deepen the understanding of the topics discussed.

Yet More On Decoupling, Part 2: ring the changes, change the rings

filterwizard • 0 implied HN points • 07 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. Using high-ESR capacitors helps control unwanted signals in power supplies, making circuits work better at high frequencies.
  2. Smaller decoupling capacitors can cause bigger voltage spikes when the load changes, which can affect circuit performance.
  3. In audio circuits, having a bump in regulator impedance can affect sound quality, and simply adding larger capacitors may not fix the issue.

The iPhone 15 has a better mic than the 11 Pro

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. The iPhone 15 has a better microphone compared to the iPhone 11 Pro. It captures audio more naturally and clearly.
  2. When using the iPhone 15, you can hear subtle details in voices, making recordings sound more lifelike.
  3. You don't need a fancy microphone to record good audio; the iPhone 15 is great for podcasting right out of the box.

Extracting Audio from Video

rtnF • 0 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Audio
  1. To extract audio from a video, use the command 'ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -vn -acodec copy output-audio.aac'
  2. After extraction, compress the audio with 'ffmpeg -i input.aac -map 0:a:0 -b:a 96k output.mp3'
  3. The process involves two steps: extraction and compression