Editing audio is a core function of radio production. While some lament the passing of razor blades and tape, computer-based editing is much quicker and certainly more flexible. Several software programs have become staples in radio production, including Adobe Audition, Sony Creative Software Audio Studio and Sound Forge and Steinberg Cubase. The top end of audio editing is likely Avid ProTools.

But for some stations, something less feature-rich, and typically less expensive, is needed for more routine work or the general station staff. A free program that seems to fir this bill is Audacity, which offers some useable tools without a steep learning curve. We decided to look around and see what else is available. We found plenty.

We looked for programs that offered at least single track editing and basic effects, such as equalization and dynamics. Some inexpensive programs offer fancier time-based effects, and some can accept plugins.

We looked for programs that offered at least single track editing and basic effects, such as equalization and dynamics. Some inexpensive programs offer fancier time-based effects, and some can accept plugins.

Ardour
OS: Mac, Linux
tracks: multi
formats: BWF, WAV, WAV64, AIFF, CAF
plug-in support: VST
features:MIDI control, video sync playback,
cost: free, donation requested
ardour.org

MP3DirectCut
OS: Windows, Linux
tracks: stereo
formats: MP3, MP2, AAC
features:edits MP3 without decompressing, ID3 tagging
cost: free
mpesch3.de1.cc/mp3dc.html

Power Sound Editor
OS: Windows
tracks: stereo
formats: MP2, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA, VOX
features:CD burning, ID3 tagging, import audio from video
cost: Free version, Deluxe $50
free-sound-editor.com

Traverso DAW
OS: Windows, Mac, Linux
tracks: multi
formats: WAV, WAV64, WavPack, OGG, FLAC, MP3, AIFF
plug-in support: LV2
features:CD burning
cost: free
traverso-daw.org

Wavosaur
OS: Windows
tracks: stereo
formats: WAV, MP3, AIF, OGG, RAW, AU/SND, VOX, WavPack
plug-in support: VST
features:Multiple files open in one session, tone generator, program skins
cost: free
wavosaur.com

WavePad Sound Editor
OS: Win, Mac, iOs
tracks: stereo
formats: MP3, WAV, VOX, GSM, WMA, AU, AIFF, FLAC, OGG, AAC, M4A
plug-in support: VST
features:audio restoration, sound effects library
cost: free (non-commercial), Standard $35, Master $60
www.nch.com.au/wavepad/