What Is Cool Edit?

Cool Edit Pro is a computer software programme which creates and edits audio files. It is used mainly by broadcast journalists to produce radio packages but is also used to create and edit music files. It allows the user to record sound from an external device (such as a digital or mini disk recorder), from the internet, or directly from a microphone inserted into the system.

Its distinctive functions include the ability to cut, mix, amplify and normalise sound. It also has a multi-track feature which allows the editor to lay different sounds and music over each other at the same time. When a package is complete, it's easy to burn a copy onto CD or save it as a wav or mp3 file, meaning audio can be sent via email or downloaded to an MP3 player. But, like all programmes of this nature, they don't come cheap. The latest version costs no less than £800.