Audacity 1.2 Freeware is a digital audio editor and sequencer that is free for all users. I had no compatibility issues with my configuration, as this software is offered for all types of set ups. The interface of the software is very easy to follow, as it really just has the basic functions you look for in a digital audio editor like this. I don't have a manual for this, but I think you can probably download one when you download the software. However, if you have any previous experience with software of this nature, you won't need a manual as it is straightforward and easy to operate.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

I have run Audacity on two different systems. One is a Mac Book Pro that has a 2.2 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processor and 4 GB of RAM, and the other is a Hewlett Packard Pavilion dv8000 lap top that has a 3.0 Ghz processor and 2 GB of RAM. On both of these computers I have never had a problem running a good amount of tracks with effects in this software. It has always run stable, even though I haven't ever had the need to run more than six or eight tracks at once within this software.

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using Audacity 1.2 for about three years or so, and have found it useful for those looking for a piece of freeware software that has all the powerful options that digital audio editing offers. This is probably the best free piece of software in terms of digital audio, and is great for new users to get their feet wet with digital audio before upgrading to something more powerful like Apple Logic or Pro Tools. Overall, highly recommended to those looking for digital audio software but don't want to pay, or want to just get their feet wet with digital audio.