Nuendo vs WaveLab
Nuendo
steinberg.net
WaveLab
steinberg.netSide by side
| Figure | Nuendo | WaveLab |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 3 |
| Spec score · Audio Editing Software | 8.8 (#9) | 9.1 (#4) |
| Spec score · Audio editors | 8.8 (#3) | 8.9 (#2) |
| Spec score · Game Audio Editors | 8.4 (#7) | 8.3 (#9) |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Multitrack editing | Yes | Yes |
| Operating systems | The listed supported operating systems are 64-bit Windows 10 version 22H2 or later, Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, and macOS Sonoma, Sequoia, or Tahoe. | WaveLab 13 downloads are available for Windows 10 64-bit version 22H2 or newer, Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer, and macOS 14, 15, or 26. |
| Purpose | Steinberg describes Nuendo as an audio post-production solution for film, TV, game audio, and immersive sound professionals. | WaveLab is an audio mastering and editing suite with audio editing, audio montage, batch processing, and spectral editing tools. |
| Support | Nuendo 15 is available through Steinberg's downloads page, which provides general information and installation utilities. | Steinberg’s imprint says technical support is available only to registered users. |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS |
| Third-party plugins | Yes | Yes |
Plans
Nuendo
- Nuendo 15 Full VersionPriced on request
- Nuendo 15 CrossgradePriced on request
- Nuendo 15 Crossgrade$799.99, paid once
- Nuendo 15 Full version$999.99, paid once
WaveLab
- WaveLab LEFree
- WaveLab Elements 13$99.99, paid once
- WaveLab Pro 13$499.99, paid once
In their own words
WaveLab
WaveLab is an audio mastering and editing suite for Windows and macOS. Its tools cover audio editing, audio montage, batch processing, and spectral editing, with multitrack editing, noise reduction, and video synchronization also listed. It supports VST 3 plug-ins from other manufacturers. The edition comparison lists podcasting integrations with SoundCloud, Spreaker, Podbean, Buzzsprout, and Castos, and says Pro and Elements can replace audio in video.
WaveLab Pro 13 includes Dolby Atmos mastering tools for ADM file editing, loudness control, and album assembly. It supports sample rates up to 384 kHz and more than 1,000 audio tracks; Elements 13 supports up to 96 kHz and eight tracks. Downloads are listed for Windows 10 64-bit version 22H2 or newer, Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer, and macOS 14, 15, or 26. The pricing note is From $99.99 · 60-day trial. A free WaveLab LE copy is available with qualifying hardware and a Download Access Code. The Pro trial requires signing in or creating a Steinberg ID.