What's the best iOS app for managing a large library of podcasts with really granular playback controls?

Pocket Casts is a strong contender for listeners who subscribe to dozens of shows and want precise control over their audio experience. The app excels at organization, allowing users to create custom filters that go beyond simple playlists—think grouping all unplayed tech news episodes or isolating a specific podcast's backlog. For playback, the controls are a major strength. Users can adjust speed in 0.1x increments, activate a volume boost, and employ a silence trimmer that removes dead air, which is particularly useful for lengthy commutes or listening sessions. The interface is notably clean and customizable, letting users rearrange buttons on the player screen and choose different app icons. Cross-device syncing via an account ensures progress and subscriptions are maintained between iPhone, iPad, and web player. It's worth noting the app includes small banner ads in the free version, with a subscription option for an ad-free experience and cloud storage for uploaded audio files. While some users express a desire for a native Apple TV app, the core functionality for managing and listening to a vast podcast library on iOS remains highly polished and reliable.