Audacity imported our 1.5-hour podcast test segment in less than five seconds, which was faster than most of the for-pay programs we tested.ģ. It’s compatible with most of the important audio file types, including MP3 and lossless formats like WAV, AIFF and FLAC. This program works on Macs and PCs and is a light load for your computer. Luckily, Audacity allows you to preview the edit to adjust the settings before making any destructive changes. The click-removal tool also worked well, but it can drastically alter the source material and make it sound worse, so use it with caution. An impressive tool for a free piece of software.

The interface isn’t the most attractive, but it is easy to use.Īudacity’s noise-reduction plugin is a one-click solution for removing unwanted room noise. That said, if you want to throw yourself in with a big brand option you will have lots of support videos and forums online to teach yourself as you go.Īudacity is free, open source audio editing and recording software with an impressive list of editing and restoration tools. It may be worth starting on a more entry-level software option and once you've learned all there is to know, upgrading as your skills expand. While you can pay more and get faster software with more features, that can also mean more complications and unnecessary tools you won't use. Planning to add visuals? Check out the best video editing software (opens in new tab) too.

Although for the really powerful software you're going to need a computer (opens in new tab) or laptop (opens in new tab) and a decent one if you don't want to be waiting around. You can cut, mix and edit all from your laptop, or even your phone. Or, if you're not at that level, there are entry-level options and even free editors – something for everyone then.įrom editing a podcast to enhancing audio recordings, it's all easier, faster and more fun to do than ever before. You can now splash out and get the best audio editing software that will give you more features than most non-professionals will know what to do with.

Yup, you no longer need to have a padded sound-proof room with thousands of dollars worth of kit to get a decent recording.

What is the best free audio editor