There are many reasons you might need audio editing software. For instance, you might need it to record a podcast, edit a voice recording, or add audio effects to a video. Whatever the case, editing audio can be tedious without help from the best audio editor on the market.
No matter what you need audio software for, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about picking the right one.
What Makes A Great Audio Editor?
When shopping for the best audio editor, you’ll have to keep in mind the type of audio you want to edit and what you plan to do with it. Otherwise, here are a few things you should consider.
Editing features and plugins: If you’re working on a more complex project, you may need professional audio editing software with advanced features like multi-track editors, effects, and normalization.
Format support: You should have high-quality and high-compression output options when exporting a completed audio track.
Recording options: Some software allow you to record with external devices and on separate channels.
Budget: If you’re looking for software with additional features, be prepared to pay a higher price.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Audio Editors?
Whether editing audio for public consumption or as training for your employees, audio editing software programs can benefit you in the following ways.
Eliminate imperfections like stutters, coughs, or mic bumps
Add segments like an intro, outro, or sound effects
Improve clarity on muffled audio
Create a positive first impression with high-quality output
This Mac-only multi-track audio editor enables batch processing, a wide range of effects, and large-file processing. TwistedWave boasts advanced audio editing features like pitch shifting and multi-channel editing compared to other Apple-specific software.
Pros
Smart silence detector: Detect silence in audio files, exporting only the remaining audio as a final file.
Batch processing: Apply an entire library of effects and plugins in a single click.
Cons
Steep learning curve for non-Apple users: If you are a fan of Windows devices, using TwistedWave on a Mac may take some getting used to.
Pricing
You can buy TwistedWave for a one-time fee of $79.90.
Adobe Audition CC is the perfect music editing software for recording live music. Functioning as a single and multi-track mixer, you can layer sounds seamlessly and restore broken audio. Note that Adobe Audition CC undergoes annual updates, so expect new, prominent features every year.
Pros
Save frequently used actions: Edit and mix wisely by setting specific actions as your favorites and applying them to multiple soundtracks in just one click.
Multiple editing layouts: Easily switch between video editing, radio production, and dual-monitor tabs.
Cons
Not beginner-friendly: Because Adobe Audition CC is a complete digital audio workstation, getting used to its advanced functions can be tricky.
Pricing
A single app plan costs $20.99/month (billed annually).
Audacity is an open-source audio editing software for Mac and Windows users. For a free application, it comes with impressive features like destructive waveform and automatic repair tools that you’d typically only find with paid tools.
Pros
Support for external audio effects: Use VST, AU, LV2, and LADSPA format sound generator plugins.
Many audio formats: Export your work as FLAC, M4A, Ogg Vorbis audio files, and more.
Cons
Cluttered interface: While Audacity is generally straightforward, you might struggle with its clunky interface.
If you’re looking for professional audio editing software to make quick and easy edits, ocenaudio is for you. This free single-track editor has a minimal interface that simplifies basic trimming and editing.
Pros
Memory management: Apply your favorite actions on large files without compromising software performance.
Real-time previews: Hear your applied effects in real-time when editing a track.
Cons
No multi-track support: If you’re after multi-track editing, you won’t get it with this open-source software.
Are you a fan of effect chains? If so, Acoustica Standard Edition supports external plugins that you can chain together, save, and deploy across multiple files. Like any other music editor, it boasts must-have audio restoration, mixing, and trimming features.
Pros
Unlimited tracks: This multi-track editor allows users to edit unlimited tracks without lag or compromise to performance.
MIDI support: Record MIDI tracks with Acoustica Standard Edition.
Cons
Hit-or-miss separation tools: Ultimately, how well your tracks separate on Acoustica Standard Edition will depend on the quality of your file in the first place.
Pricing
You can purchase a license to Acoustica Standard Edition for $59.90.
Amadeus Pro describes itself as the “swiss army knife of sound editing,” and it’s not wrong. This excellent tool has an impressive batch processing module and other essential tools, like splitting stereo recordings or implementing effects.
Pros
Repair Center: Automatically scan for imperfections and repair them. You can listen to a preview of your enhanced audio recording before fully processing it.
Built-in burning: If you’re a die-hard fan of mixtapes and CDs, you can burn your output directly onto a disk, given that your device has an optical drive.
Cons
May not be best for advanced users: While Amadeus Pro’s straightforward interface and easy-to-use features make it an ideal option for beginners, it may not be best suited for more experienced pros.
Pricing
You can purchase Amadeus Pro for $59.99.
What’s The Best Audio Editor For You?
What you consider the best audio editor will depend on:
What type of audio you’re working with (e.g., live recording, MIDI file, vocal track, etc.)
Whether you use a Mac or Windows device
Your experience level
Your budget
Overall, we recommend Audacity for beginners on a budget. For live music, consider Adobe Audition CC. For quick edits, try your hand at ocenaudio.
In Conclusion
If your audio files could use a bit of cleaning up, we hope these six software solutions have the powerful tools you need to create the output you need.
Do you want to make your multi-track editing experience even more seamless? Automate functions using Integrately, compatible with over 600 apps!
Are there any audio editing software programs that are functional without internet access?
Most audio editing software programs are functional without internet access. However, you may need an internet connection to download and install external plugins.
Is there any audio editing software good for beginners?
Audio editing softwares like Audacity or Garageband are good for beginners without prior experience. Even with a learning curve to some software, you’re likely to find extensive resources on how to use advanced tools online.
How much does audio editing software cost?
The costs you pay for an audio editing software will depend on whether you are looking for something with additional features or can make do with something basic. Premium options with advanced audio editing tools can cost anywhere between $100 and $800, while professionals can expect to spend over $1,000.
Author - Abhishek A Agrawal
Abhishek is the founder of Integrately, CompanyHub, and Dreamwares. He is passionate about technology and entrepreneurship. He is always looking to leverage technology for the growth of the business. He has a deep understanding of how businesses work and uses this knowledge to build products that help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
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