Audacity AI

Free open-source audio editor with bundled AI cleanup and separation effects

AI Audio & MusicFree planOverseasβ˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† 3.0

What is Audacity AI?

Audacity is a long-standing free, open-source audio editor for recording and editing on Windows, macOS and Linux. Recent versions add optional AI-assisted effects, including noise suppression and music separation for isolating vocals from a mix, which run locally after a one-time model download rather than sending your audio to a server. Multitrack editing, spectral view, effect chains and batch macros cover the usual podcast, interview and music editing jobs. It is not a polished commercial product: the interface is utilitarian and the AI features are a small, still-evolving part of a much larger traditional editor.

Last updated: 2026-09-20. This site only provides an index; for exact features, pricing, and licensing, see the official website.

Key features

  • Multitrack recording and editing of common audio file formats
  • Optional AI noise suppression that runs locally after a model download
  • Music separation effect for isolating vocals and other parts
  • Spectral view for locating and repairing specific frequencies
  • Macros and batch processing for repeating an effect chain
  • Extensible through plug-ins and a large community library

Pros & cons

Strengths

  • Completely free and open source with no account or limits
  • AI effects run locally, so audio never leaves your machine
  • Mature editing toolset covers most podcast and music jobs

Watch out for

  • The interface feels dated next to modern commercial editors
  • AI effects need a separate model download and decent hardware
  • Cleanup and separation quality trails dedicated paid tools

Best for & use cases

podcast editing, quick audio cleanup, vocal removal experiments and free multitrack work

If you're comparing similar products, check the alternatives below, or browse all tools in the AI Audio & Music category.

FAQ

Are the AI features really free?

Yes. Audacity itself and the optional AI effects cost nothing, which is unusual in this category. The trade-off is that you do the setup yourself and the models are general-purpose rather than best in class.

Which effect should I use for noise?

Start with noise suppression for steady background sound such as fans or hiss, and use the classic noise reduction effect when you can capture a clean sample of the noise on its own. Separation is the right choice for removing a voice from a mix.

Can it replace a paid audio editor?

For editing, recording and basic restoration, often yes. Work that needs spectral repair precision, advanced metering or professional plug-in support is better handled in a commercial suite.