Audacity
Create, edit and mix sounds on your PC with this excellent freeware tool - Open Source
Filesize: 19800KB
Licence: Freeware
Restrictions: None
System: XP/ 2000/ Vista/ Win7
Version: 2.0 (19/03/12)
Website: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
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PC Utilities review:
When it comes to freeware audio editors and recorders, few applications come close to the popular Audacity in terms of features. Through an uncomplicated, intuitive interface you can record, edit, cut and perform a number of effects on your audio. Audacity is easy enough for beginners to pick up, as well as having enough advanced features to satisfy more experienced users.
The program is able to open up sound files stored in WAV, MP3 and OGG formats. You can also record audio directly from whatever inputs you have installed on your system, such as a microphone, webcam or analogue input, for example. It's possible to mix multiple tracks together in a couple of clicks, add fades and volume effects, and much more.
When you've loaded in or recorded an audio track, you'll see both the left and right stereo tracks appear on screen. Use the zoom controls to take a closer look and click the green Play button at the top of the screen to listen to the sound file,. Under the Effect menu you'll find a whole host of different options for editing and enhancing the audio - to make these options active, you'll need to select part of the track itself or use Ctrl+A to select it all. Note that playback also needs to be stopped (rather than paused) to access these options. Many of the entries on the Effect menu have individual dialog boxes you can use to tweak and preview the changes. Using the tools in the top left corner it's also possible to edit individual samples and change the overall pitch and tone of your recording.
Use the File/ Export options to save your finished work. With its friendly interface and powerful array of tools, Audacity is an essential fixture in the software collection of any audio enthusiast.
Review last modified 16/04/09. Each month PC Utilities magazine reviews scores of great new programs. Have you considered taking advantage of our no-risk subscription offer?
User reviews:
gordon511060 says: Due to illness I?ve been basically grounded for over a fortnight so I?ve had some time to catch up. I've had a little play with this program and found it capable of far more than I was asking of it. Personally, I would recommend the program to anyone starting out as a music editor. (05/12/2008)
gordon511060 says: Due to illness I?ve been basically grounded for over a fortnight so I?ve had some time to catch up. I've had a little play with this program and found it capable of far more than I was asking of it. Personally, I would recommend the program to anyone starting out as a music editor. (05/12/2008)
DAGAZ says: ..and there is also a version for Linux. (29/05/2008)
cyberman says: Thoroughly agree with previous reviews. Its got a very professional interface and you wonder when the pop-up will appear to buy the full license. But of course there isnt one, its free, and its damn good. (29/02/2008)
kent@adkom.no says: Very very nice (11/08/2007)
manchester says: Audacity is powerful and easy to use. I have used it for two years with both WIN98 & WIN XP to edit and cut music for talent shows. Lots of features and GNU licensing (FREE) with no ads or invitations to upgrade to a paid version. You need this! (29/07/2006)
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