Audacity 4.0 Launches With Major Overhaul and Long-Awaited Dark Mode

Muse Group has released Audacity Version 4.0, marking the most significant update to the free, open-source audio editor since Version 3.0 five years ago. The new release introduces a redesigned interface alongside a suite of advanced editing features, aiming to modernize the software while preserving usability for long-time users.

The most visible change is the addition of a dark mode, giving the interface a more vibrant appearance with colored audio clips and enhanced accent colors on elements like gain sliders. Users who prefer the traditional aesthetic can still enable the classic look during the initial setup process.

Editing capabilities have been substantially expanded with non-destructive workflows, allowing audio clips to overlap without permanent alteration. Trimming beyond the original bounds reveals the hidden audio, and users can now group multiple clips or trim them simultaneously by dragging a single handle.

Audacity 4.0 also introduces an envelope tool familiar to professionals using digital audio workstations like Ableton Live or Pro Tools. This allows for precise, draggable control points for parameters such as gain, with real-time waveform visualization to help users monitor levels and avoid clipping.

Additional updates include a new one-click splitting tool, sample-level editing through deep zoom, and individual track meters to identify which tracks are affecting the mix. While the controversial sync-lock feature has been removed, its functionality can now be replicated using new keyboard shortcuts.

The update also brings improved plugin support, further closing the gap between Audacity and expensive professional audio software. For more detailed information, Muse Group has published a dedicated webpage and an accompanying YouTube video outlining the changes.