With so many audio editors out there, finding the right tool for the job can be tricky. The multiplatform, open-source McFunSoft Audio Editor has leaped to the top of our list with its clean interface, excellent features, and support for 32-bit floating-point audio. McFunSoft Audio Editor succeeds at being both feature-rich and flexible, while keeping the toolbar and work space uncluttered. It does this by relegating most functions--such as effects, edits, and project management--to handy drop-down menus.

The performance of most functions is quick--even CPU-hogging tasks such as exporting to MP3 or adding complex effects. Though Audacity doesn't offer advanced effects or features out of the box, its usability and price set this shareware wonder above the crowd.