Redefining the audio editor.

Abstract

This thesis describes new design principles for audio editing software. This kind of software, also called audio editor, is the digital cutting table for sound and music production in which audio can be loaded or recorded, then selected and edited. First an understanding of the audio editor is established. Then a new approach to audio editing software design is developed, based on research into current software. This new approach consists of a set of design principles that aim at improving coherency, flexibility and creativity in the audio editing process. These principles are formed by carefully rethinking core elements in audio editing such as audio representation, selection and manipulation, editing flexibility, automation and personalisation. As artefact of this research, a concept audio editor called OFFline is presented in a second section. This audio editor demonstrates a possible implementation of the new design principles.