Head-to-head comparison
Pro Tools vs SOUND FORGE Pro
Two of the editing tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
The industry-standard DAW behind most major scripted podcasts.
Best for: Studio post-production
Long-running stereo audio editor that remains a standby for mastering and detailed cleanup.
Best for: Detailed stereo edits
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
Pro Tools
Pros
- Industry-standard .ptx session file for handoffs
- Fastest editing workflow once shortcuts click
- Massive plugin ecosystem
Watch-outs
- Subscription adds up fast
- Overpowered for solo podcasters
- Steep learning curve vs Logic
SOUND FORGE Pro
Pros
- Precise sample-level stereo editing
- Mature batch processing tools
- Mac version exists alongside Windows
Watch-outs
- Just acquired by Boris FX — upgrade path unclear
- Stereo focus, not multitrack DAW
- UI still shows its radio-production lineage
Which one should you pick?
Pick Pro Tools if
You’re building around studio post-production. Pro Tools is the standard at every major scripted podcast studio because that's where the senior editors learned the keyboard shortcuts — not because it's actually better at dialogue than Hindenburg. Unless you're delivering session files to a post-production house, you're paying $35/mo for prestige.
Pick SOUND FORGE Pro if
You’re building around detailed stereo edits. SOUND FORGE was a household name in radio production decades ago. Note for 2026: Boris FX acquired it from Magix in March, so the ownership story changed.
Also worth comparing
Or see all Pro Tools alternatives.
Frequently asked
What does Pro Tools do better than SOUND FORGE Pro?
Pro Tools's standout is "Industry-standard .ptx session file for handoffs". SOUND FORGE Pro doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Precise sample-level stereo editing" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Pro Tools; if the second does, pick SOUND FORGE Pro.
What are the trade-offs?
Pro Tools: subscription adds up fast. SOUND FORGE Pro: just acquired by boris fx — upgrade path unclear. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Pro Tools and SOUND FORGE Pro together?
Both are editing tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using Pro Tools for one show or episode type and SOUND FORGE Pro for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.