Audacity 4: a glimpse of a new, more modern UI for the free audio editor

Audacity always had some appealing features, not least of which being free and open source. But a glimpse inside the design work being done on Audacity 4 suggests it could become something else: a slick, efficient wave editor that just happens to be free. This UI breakdown will be of interest to anyone pondering UI/UX in creative tools.

Cluster v3, Sinevibes’ multi-filter sequencer, goes deep

The simple, immediate UI of Cluster, the fourth plug-in in Sinevibes’ Dynamic Collection, belies a deep engine. Yes, this is a multi-filter with a sequencer, and yes, with the same ability to sketch in ideas quickly or roll the dice. But you can push the filters inside to open up worlds of sounds.

Peter Kirn - September 29, 2025

Soundtoys 5.5 update, free window resizing, everything explained

Soundtoys is here with the 5.5 upgrade of their flagship suite, plus a free update for everyone with resizable UIs. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new, what’s free, what’s paid, and more. And there’s a sale on, too.

Peter Kirn - July 23, 2025

Max 9: new coding and livecoding, new visuals, and Ableton’s sound tools

Peter Kirn - October 30, 2024

Bitwig Studio now has some gorgeous themes, thanks to user mods

Peter Kirn - July 11, 2024

Ableton Live 12: a guide to everything that’s new

Peter Kirn - November 14, 2023

Make Ableton Live easy on the eyes in low light – with a retro 80s & 90s look

Peter Kirn - October 4, 2023

Arturia FX the latest to get the Elisabeth Homeland Ableton Live wrapper treatment, and whoa

Peter Kirn - April 26, 2023

Someone tried redesigning Ableton Live, and he’s getting lots of attention

Peter Kirn - June 23, 2017

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