WavePad review

WavePad is a long-running audio editor from NCH Software that covers the classic tasks: cut, copy, paste, trim, silence and insert, plus effects such as amplify, normalize, equalizer, reverb and echo. Its strength is volume work. Batch processing applies effects to or converts thousands of files in one job, which helps anyone cleaning up a back catalog of recordings or converting formats. Restoration tools include noise reduction, click pop removal and AI powered noise removal, and the editor handles sample rates from 6 to 192kHz. It supports DirectX and VST plugins and a long list of formats from MP3 and WAV to FLAC, AAC and M4A. NCH says the free version does not expire, needs no signup and includes many of the features of the Master's Edition, but it is licensed for non-commercial use only, so a monetized podcast needs a paid license. Multitrack work happens in a separate app, MixPad. We could not confirm a USD price for the Master's Edition from the vendor page here.

Who it is for

home users who batch edit or convert many files

Price

Free for non-commercial use; Master's Edition: see vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Batch processing to apply effects or convert thousands of files at once
• Noise reduction, click pop removal and AI powered noise removal
• DirectX and VST plugin support
• Spectral analysis (FFT) and beat detection
• Sample rates from 6 to 192kHz at 8, 16, 24 or 32 bits

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free version does not expire and needs no signup
• Strength: Supports MP3, WAV, FLAC, OGG, AAC, M4A and many other formats
• Strength: Available for Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad and Android
• Weakness: Free version is licensed for non-commercial use only
• Weakness: Some effects and features are reserved for the paid Master's Edition
• Weakness: Single-file editor; multitrack mixing needs the separate MixPad app

Key facts

• Free version: Yes, non-commercial use only
• Paid upgrade: Master's Edition
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android
• Sample rates: 6 to 192kHz

Where it ranks

WavePad is No. 9 in our Best Free Audio Editing Software verdict.