GoldWave
Audio editing software
Music making software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$19 per year
Free Trial
Free version unavailable
Small
Medium
Large
- Public sector and nonprofit organizations
- Information technology and software
- Arts, entertainment, and recreation
What is GoldWave
GoldWave is a desktop audio editor for recording, editing, restoring, and converting audio files. It targets individuals and small teams that need waveform-based editing for tasks such as trimming, mixing, batch processing, and applying effects to spoken-word or music audio. The product focuses on local, offline editing with a broad set of built-in effects and utilities rather than browser-based collaboration or AI-driven voice/video workflows.
Comprehensive waveform editing tools
GoldWave provides standard waveform editing functions such as cut/copy/paste, multi-clip mixing, time selection editing, and level adjustments. It includes a range of built-in effects (for example, EQ, dynamics, reverb, and noise reduction) suitable for common cleanup and enhancement tasks. This makes it practical for users who prefer traditional audio editing over text-based or AI-assisted editing approaches.
Batch processing and conversion
GoldWave includes tools for batch processing that can apply effects, normalize levels, and convert formats across many files. This supports repetitive production tasks such as preparing podcast episodes, voice recordings, or music stems for distribution. For users handling many assets, this reduces manual effort compared with editing files one by one.
Offline desktop workflow
GoldWave runs as a local desktop application, which can fit environments where cloud processing is not desired. Local processing can simplify handling of sensitive recordings because files do not need to be uploaded to a web service for editing. It also supports use cases where reliable internet access is not available.
Limited collaboration features
GoldWave is primarily designed for single-user desktop editing rather than multi-user collaboration. It does not emphasize shared projects, browser-based review, or team workflows common in newer content production tools. Teams may need external processes for versioning, approvals, and handoffs.
Not a full music production DAW
While it can edit and mix audio, GoldWave is not positioned as a full digital audio workstation for composing and arranging music with MIDI instruments and advanced sequencing. Users focused on music creation may need additional tools for virtual instruments, MIDI editing, and complex arrangement workflows. As a result, it fits better for audio editing and restoration than end-to-end music production.
Fewer AI-assisted capabilities
GoldWave focuses on conventional audio editing rather than AI-driven features such as automatic transcription-based editing, voice generation, or automated dubbing. Users seeking rapid content repurposing workflows may find they need separate tools for transcription, synthetic voice, or multilingual localization. This can increase toolchain complexity for modern creator workflows.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| One Year License | $19 (one-year license) | License valid for one year; upgrades free for one year; includes GoldWave Infinity (iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS). |
| Lifetime License | $59 (one-time) | License never expires; free upgrades; includes GoldWave Infinity; works with all versions of GoldWave. |
| Evaluation (trial) | Free (fully functional evaluation) | Fully functional evaluation version available that expires after a "generous amount of use" (not a permanent free tier). |
