Our verdict: Sound Forge is a precise, fast editor for working on one audio file at a time: cutting, repairing, metering and mastering. It is aimed at broadcast, post-production and mastering work rather than music arrangement, and it is deliberately not a multitrack DAW. The trial is complete but short, and it requires a Boris FX account and launcher.
About Sound Forge
Sound Forge is now developed and sold by Boris FX, which also makes Vegas Pro. It records up to 32 channels at once, edits down to the sample level and includes plug-in suites for EQ, dynamics, restoration and mastering, plus VST2, VST3 and ARA support.
The 15-day trial is fully functional and needs no credit card, but you fill in a form, sign in with a Boris FX account and install Sound Forge through the Boris FX Hub app. After 15 days you must buy or subscribe to keep using it. Boris FX lists subscriptions from $24.95 per month and perpetual licenses from $299.95.
What it does well
- Sample-level editing. Zoom past individual samples and cut, copy and paste audio like text.
- Audio repair. Removes clicks, crackle and broadband noise and repairs clipped recordings.
- Multichannel recording. Records up to 32 channels with automatic start by level or time and a prerecord buffer.
- Mastering and metering. Wave Hammer dynamics and accurate peak and loudness meters for delivery specs.
- Batch converter. Applies effects and converts many files in one automated run.
Who it is for
Good fit
Audio engineers, broadcasters and podcast editors who need precise editing and repair of individual files.
Look elsewhere
Musicians looking for a multitrack DAW, and anyone who wants to try software without creating an account.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Very precise waveform editing
- Good repair and mastering tools
- Perpetual license still offered
- Records up to 32 channels
Cons
- Trial lasts only 15 days and needs an account
- Not a multitrack DAW
- Expensive compared with free editors
How to install Sound Forge
The trial is not a direct download: fill in the form on the Boris FX page, download the Boris FX Hub, sign in or create an account, request the Sound Forge trial and install it from the Hub. Choose Start Free Trial when Sound Forge first opens.
Questions about Sound Forge
Is Sound Forge free?
No. Boris FX offers a fully functional 15-day trial with no credit card, but it requires a Boris FX account and the Boris FX Hub. After the trial you must buy a perpetual license (from $299.95) or subscribe (from $24.95 per month).
Can Sound Forge record multitrack projects?
No. Sound Forge is designed for editing single audio files; Boris FX recommends pairing it with a DAW for multitrack work.
Does Sound Forge support plug-ins?
Yes. It supports VST2, VST3 and ARA plug-ins alongside its own effect suites.
