This software may not have the most appealing interface, but don't let that put you off right away as it does offer a fair deal for the price.

It's very easy to use, and can read and write the following formats: WAV, AU, SND and RAW. Download an additional free plug-in and it can also cope with MP3 files.

All the usual editing functions are available, including trim, cut, paste, equalise, modulate, stretch etc. It also allows you to draw directly onto the wave form for manual editing, which is good for removing noise or adding special effects.

Sampling rate support is good, with anything from 1KHz to 200KHz accepted, and the sound format can be switched between mono and stereo, or 8- and 16-bit.

The maximum size for an audio file is 2GB, which isn't as much as some programs, but this is enough to handle a three-hour audio file.

A neat feature for newcomers to the world of audio editing is the on-screen help text, which offers guidance whenever you do something. This is pretty subtle, so it won't affect usage when you become more experienced.

A free CD ripper is available from the FlexiMusic website, which can be integrated into this editor.