I'm wanting to produce a pro level sounding "audio CD" of my recorded arranger keyboard + vocal songs. Most of these are in WAV file (stereo) format. I'd like to optimize (sweeten) the sound/mix (eq, efx, etc) of my WAV (or MP3) files. What software program is BEST recommended for 2 track audio WAV/MP3 file editing & optimization:

Sony Soundforge Audio Studio $299

Goldwave v5.13 $49

Nero Wave Editor 3

Sony Soundforge 8

Other?

I currently own Nero Ultra 6, so assume upgrading to Nero Utra 7 would include 'Nero Wave Editor3' with it. Do I need to spend a lot of money for Soundforge8 ($299) or will the other below cheaper software options work as well. Curious what Soundforge 8 (industry standard) includes that Nero Wave Editor3 and Goldwave don't.

Also, do I need a special dedicated software program to create RED BOOK quality CD's from my wav files? I assume Nero Ultra 7 should cover this, right?

Thanks in advance for feedback, and your best recommendation.

Scott

you have mail

you have even more mail...

Scott,

I've used previous versions of WaveLabs and have been very satisfied with it.
http://www.steinberg.net/128+M52087573ab0.html

Claude

I forgot to mention, the price is higher than any of the products you've mentioned. ($699) but just depending on your needs and considered than you'll probably buy this only once, i still think it's worthwile.

It is Red Book-compatible for mastering all your CDs as well as DVD-A authoring capable.

However, for a 'lite version', you may also want to consider 'Wave Labs Essential'. http://www.steinberg.net/127+M52087573ab0.html

($149.99 retail).

Cheers,
Claude

Thanks Donny


Sorry Al, never received it. Did you send it to the address listed in my profile?



Curious how Wavelab COMPARES with Soundforge? Does SoundForge 7 support Red Book-compatible mastering of CDs & DVD-A Authoring as well?

Scott

Over the last 10 years..Sound Forge has been the go to software in studios[commercial]..

hey Scotee - You might want to give adobe audition a try...

I believe that SoundForge 8 includes the Sony CD Architect application which handles the red book burning....

Adobe Audition is formerly known as the good old Cool Edit Pro with some new enhancements. I haven't heard of red book support on Adobe Audition.

Claude

Sound Forge 8 is one of my most used and indespensible applications. I started with SF5 and stayed with it through 8, which has ASIO support. Got friends hooked on it too. I never tried any other programs because I didn't need to.

Thanks to all for all the good suggestions. Ok, sounds like, at least so far, Soundforge's the 'all around' favorite here.

Perhaps some of you audio engineering experts here could share which specific 'post production' audio editing software 'features/techniques' (track normalizing, eq types, effect types, etc) you recommend using to ENHANCE (sweeten) the sound of 2 track audio recorded song (wav)files. Thanks in advance.

Scott

I'll agree Sound Forge is a great program....I enjoy using it for my needs & its not too complicated to use too!
Scot I can't wait for the release of your long awaited "New CD" also......
Good Luck!!