Podcasters, DJs, editors, TikTokers, and media producers are constantly editing audio files to make their content sound high-quality. Whether you are a professional musician looking to refine your recordings or simply want to enhance the quality of your voice memos, there are plenty of user-friendly and completely free programs available for you to use.
While there are a lot of useful paid options, this article will focus more on the best free audio editing software tools. However, some of these options will have drawbacks like a lack of multi-track mixing or restoration tools. Plus the free versions may only have single stereo/mono files.
1.) Audacity
Audacity is one of my favorite audio editors as it is a free and open-source tool with hundreds of useful features. It offers multi-track editing features and cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports two-track editing and you can also tap into a comprehensive library of plugins. Plus the platform’s non-destructive audio editing saves time and makes it more robust.
2.) Ocenaudio
Ocenaudio has a simplified workflow and intuitive interface that enables users to preview sound effects in real-time. And it can import files from cloud servers or the user’s local storage. Another useful feature is the ability to adjust the playback parameters from the timeline without modifying the original audio file when editing. Plus it supports keyboard shortcuts to save time. This software is great for beginners.
3.) WavePad
WavePad is a free audio editing tool that supports a wide array of formats of sound. WavePad also offers tutorial videos to quickly learn how to use the platform. Known as one of the best all-rounders for general audio editing, you can choose from the app’s selection of cut /copy/paste/delete/insert/etc. options to modify the audio accordingly.
4.) GarageBand
GarageBand is one of the most popular free audio platforms. However, it is only available for macOS (downloadable via the App Store). Features include audio recording, visual software instruments, guitar features MIDI editing, and music lessons.
The GarageBand music sequencer can record and play back multiple tracks of audio. And the built-in audio filters that use the AU (audio unit) standard enable users to enhance the audio track with various effects, including reverb, echo, and distortion amongst others. GarageBand also offers the ability to record at both 16-bit and 24-bit Audio Resolution but at a fixed sample rate of 44.1 kHz. Plus an included tuning system helps with pitch correction and could imitate the Auto-Tune effect when tuned to the maximum level.
5.) AudioDirector
AudioDirector is a popular free audio editing platform for Windows that features vocal balance and a removal tool for extracting acapella or instrumentals from any song. Besides having a user-friendly interface for sound recording, editing, mixing, and restoring, it also works well for cutting/trimming and adding special effects. Plus it works well with direct soundtrack editing through PowerDirector integration.
