Plenty of features to edit audio files

Audacity is a powerful audio editor to play, import, export, and record a wide range of file formats, including WAV, AIFF, and MP3. The feature-packed software is open-source and free to use. You can even use the tool to edit audio files, mix multiple tracks, apply effects to sound recordings, and do a lot more to create all kinds of music. With this audio editing software, you also enjoy features like the customizable spectrogram mode, frequency analysis, amplitude envelope editor, Bass Boost, VST plug-in effects, Noise Removal, Wahwah, etc.

Easy to use, free, and open-source

Audacity is an excellent audio editing tool for Microsoft Windows PCs. If you’re a beginner in the field of audio editing, this will be an ideal choice. It’s perfect for anyone starting out in podcasting or music recording. The popular audio editor comes with a simple interface, so you can learn from scratch without much trouble. Since it’s a lightweight program, it won’t slow down your computer and will run in the background.

Considering the open-source development of the software, Audacity has been able to build a huge community. You’ll therefore be able to browse through loads of information, insights, and tips to learn everything about audio editing. Additionally, although it’s a free program, it comes with a wide range of features, some of which match the toolset of expensive software like Adobe Audition.

What can you do with Audacity?

The Windows version of the program is easy and simple to use. It comes with a clean interface, listing every feature in preset menus. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert sound editor, Audacity doesn’t feel overwhelming. You can use the accessible wizard to learn the tricks of the trade. With a simple layout and format, the audio editing software makes it easier to add files (audio or track) to the program by either opening existing downloads on the computer or using the microphone to record a new track.

You can also import files directly from a mixing board. This feature is quite useful for professional artists and DJs. Each file is visible as a waveform, clearly depicting the various elements in the track. Audacity lets you merge multiple files to create music. However, you can also choose to edit each file individually or work on multiple tracks in different windows simultaneously.

Compared to Lexis Audio Editor and WavePad, it’s easier to work with audio files in Audacity. All the buttons, including play, pause, back, forward, record, and stop, are viewable in large-sized icons. Just like with an analog recorder, you can conveniently create and listen to tracks. In the waveform, you can draw a line to listen to a particular section of the file.

The program comes with a cut tool, which lets you remove specific sections from a file. Similarly, the paste tool can be used to insert multiple clips or sections in a track. As mentioned earlier, you can also use the merge function to combine different tracks to create amazing mixes and music.

Once you download Audacity, it lets you manage audio files with multiple fade effects and options. The program has a built-in equalizer and several distortion settings, giving you good control over mixes. Unlike most of the free sound mixing programs, Audacity features an ‘auto duck’, which allows you to set a function to lower the volume on a particular track whenever another is played. It’s a powerful feature for podcast recordings, which usually have a mix of live audio with the background score.

With Audacity, you can conveniently reverse tracks or audio clips, play around with volume control, trim silence, and set timers for recordings. The audio editor lets you stack one track over another,  simplifying the process of creating mixes. Unfortunately, the program still has a few bugs, which can cause occasional lags with heavy files.

Does Audacity support plug-ins and microphone?

Audacity lets you record from the PC’s microphone and playback options. Considering the high-quality audio, sample rates can reach as high as 192,000 Hz. During sound recordings, level meters automatically monitor the track’s volume to identify certain issues. The audio editing software also supports 24-bit depth sound recording.

While Audacity is a power-packed tool, you can use multiple plug-ins to add more functionalities. For instance, the software integrates well with other applications to add new effects. With this program, you can work on all kinds of audio projects. Whether you want to create music, podcasts, or simply record sounds, Audacity will be a great choice.

Does Audacity support multiple file formats?

Compared to MixPad Multitrack Recording Software, Audacity supports various file formats, including OGG, FLAC, MP3, WAV, AIFF, MP2, and more. In fact, some plug-ins can offer you support for additional file formats, such as MP4, M4A, and AC3. Apart from importing certain file formats, Audacity can also be used to convert file types.

After importing files to the audio editor, you can adjust different filters and effects too. You can remove hissing, humming, and other disruptive noises. The tool is perfect to build a high-quality and hassle-free recording environment.

Lastly, Audacity easily alters frequencies with Notch Filter Effects, High/Low Pass, Equalization, and Treble/Bass. Moreover, you can use the compressor to adjust the volume with ease. There are also other important features, such as amplification, fade in/out, customizable fade effects, and formalization.

An excellent audio editor for your PC

The latest version of Audacity comes with various features for Microsoft (10 and 11) Windows. The simple interface of the program allows even beginners to start working with mixes and audio files. Since the program supports different file formats, you can use Audacity to create stunning music. Overall, this audio editing software won’t disappoint.