Creating interactive and conversational audio with AI requires tools that excel in natural-sounding voice synthesis, real-time dialogue capabilities, and intuitive editing interfaces. The current landscape offers specialized platforms for different needs, from professional voiceovers to dynamic AI conversations. Four tools consistently emerge as leaders: ElevenLabs for its advanced voice customization and Actor Mode, Character AI for free interactive voice conversations, Wondercraft for its new Convo Mode enabling natural audio creation through dialogue, and Google’s NotebookLM for transforming written content into podcast-style audio. These tools stand out for their ability to generate human-like interactions, support multi-language outputs, and integrate with creative workflows.

Key findings from the search results:

• ElevenLabs dominates for professional-grade voice synthesis, offering fine-tuned control over tone and delivery through its Actor Mode ^[1][4][5]
• Character AI’s call mode provides free, highly interactive voice conversations with customizable voices, praised for its accessibility and realism ^[3]
• Wondercraft’s Convo Mode introduces a conversational AI agent (Wonda) that simplifies audio content creation through natural dialogue, ideal for podcasts and ads ^[6]
• Google’s NotebookLM is transforming content distribution by converting written material into podcast-style audio automatically ^[8]

Top AI Tools for Interactive and Conversational Audio

Voice Synthesis and Professional Audio Creation

For users needing high-quality, customizable voiceovers or interactive audio elements, ElevenLabs and Wondercraft lead the market with distinct advantages. ElevenLabs excels in precision control, while Wondercraft focuses on conversational workflows.

ElevenLabs stands out for its Actor Mode, which allows users to refine voice outputs by re-recording specific lines until they match the desired tone. This feature is particularly valuable for professional audio projects where consistency and emotional delivery matter ^[1]. The platform supports:

• Multi-language voice generation with over 29 languages and 120+ accents, enabling global content creation ^[5]
• Voice cloning capabilities that let users upload samples to create custom voices, useful for branding or character consistency ^[4]
• A free tier with 10,000 characters per month, making it accessible for individuals and small teams ^[4]
• Integration with creative workflows, such as pairing with ChatGPT-generated scripts for automated audio production ^[4]

Wondercraft, meanwhile, introduces Convo Mode, a feature that shifts audio creation from script-based inputs to natural conversations. Users interact with Wonda, an AI agent that guides the creation process through dialogue, eliminating the need for complex editing skills ^[6]. Key features include:

• Real-time audio generation from conversational prompts, ideal for podcasts, ads, and audiobooks ^[6]
• Team collaboration tools, allowing multiple users to contribute to projects simultaneously ^[6]
• Multi-language support with customizable voice models, including options for different tones and styles ^[6]
• A free starter plan, lowering the barrier for new users to experiment with interactive audio ^[6]

Both tools cater to professional use cases but differ in approach: ElevenLabs prioritizes granular control, while Wondercraft emphasizes ease of use through conversation. For example, a marketer creating an audio ad might prefer Wondercraft’s conversational flow, whereas a filmmaker needing precise voice acting would lean toward ElevenLabs’ Actor Mode.

Interactive Voice Conversations and Dynamic Audio

For applications requiring real-time interactive voice experiences, such as AI companions, customer service bots, or dynamic storytelling, Character AI and Google’s NotebookLM offer standout solutions. These tools focus on fluid, natural-sounding dialogues rather than pre-scripted outputs.

Character AI’s call mode enables free, voice-based interactions with AI characters, supporting:

• Custom voice creation, allowing users to design unique vocal profiles or select from pre-existing options ^[3]
• Real-time conversational responses, with the AI adapting to user inputs dynamically ^[3]
• No cost for basic use, making it accessible for casual users or developers testing interactive audio ^[3]
• Use cases beyond chatbots, including role-playing games, language practice, and interactive storytelling ^[3]

The tool’s strength lies in its accessibility and immediacy. Users on Reddit highlight its effectiveness for freeform conversations, though it may lack the polish of paid professional tools ^[3]. For instance, a language learner could practice speaking with an AI tutor, while a game developer might prototype dialogue systems without coding.

Google’s NotebookLM takes a different approach by transforming written content into AI-generated podcasts. This tool automates the conversion of documents, articles, or notes into audio formats, offering:

• Seamless integration with Google Workspace, pulling from existing documents to create audio summaries or full narrations ^[8]
• Automated voice selection and pacing, reducing the manual effort required for podcast production ^[8]
• Potential for scalable content distribution, enabling writers to repurpose blogs or reports into audio formats ^[8]
• Early-stage innovation, with users noting its disruptive potential for content creators ^[8]

While NotebookLM is not a traditional conversational tool, its ability to generate interactive audio experiences from static text positions it as a valuable asset for educators, marketers, and publishers. For example, a journalist could automatically convert an investigative article into a podcast episode, complete with AI-narrated sections and dynamic pacing.

Additional Tools for Specialized Needs

Beyond the top contenders, several other tools address niche requirements in interactive audio:

• Hume allows users to design voices from textual prompts, useful for branding or experimental projects ^[5]
• Speechify focuses on human-like cadence, ideal for audiobooks or accessibility applications ^[5]
• Descript combines voice generation with full audio/video editing, streamlining workflows for small businesses ^[10]
• Suno (honorable mention) shows promise in AI music generation, which can complement interactive audio projects ^[4]

These tools expand the possibilities for customization and integration. For instance, a small business could use Descript to create a voiceover for a promotional video, then enhance it with Suno-generated background music, all within a single workflow.