Under this broad category you'll find tools to help with the pre- and post-production of computer audio recording. Everyone manages and mangles their tracks and samples in different ways, so I've collected a variety of the best audio tools available.
If you're a musician or an audiophile, you'll find interesting and useful tools here. There are top-notch freeware audio editors and DJ software available to help you to play and record a live set or create a mix - and plenty of freeware you can use to improve (or destroy, your choice) the audio afterward.
ASIO4ALL
Universal low latency ASIO driver for WDM audio devices
Frequently outperforms many sound cards' built-in ASIO latency
64-bit compatible
Audacity
Cross-platform, open source, portable, large user base
Supports VST, can be used as a lightweight DAW
Simple interface for beginners
A little buggy on x64, not as full featured out of the box as WavePad
Free Audio Editor
Easily edit or record audio
Simple to use, intuitive "ribbon" GUI
Convenient, quality built-in effects, including text-to-speech recorder
Free version only supports WAV file output
Mixxx
Dead simple DJ software
Beat detection, timestretching, MIDI support, and more
Cross platform + native Windows x64 version
Paul's Extreme Sound Stretch
Amazing real-time, insane sound stretching
Apply post-processing effects
Make chill-out, ambient version of any song instantly
WavePad Sound Editor
Powerful audio editing and recording capabilities
Quality built-in effects, also supports VST effects
Force installs annoying promo links to company's other products
Wavosaur
Light-weight, single EXE (portable)
Supports VST effects; process in batch mode
GUI and ease-of-use not up to par with Free Audio Editor or WavePad
