Changes include:
- Unicode interface (supports international file and folder names)
- Accelerated processing and multiprocessor support for some effects
- Integrated GWVoice effects (Auto Gain, Censor, Auto Offset Removal, Voice Over)
- Cleaner polyphase resampling
- Higher resolution frequency visuals
- 32-bit colour visuals
- Updated FLAC and Vorbis codecs
- "Loop point" playback option
- Automatic download and install of MP3 encoder
- Gradient colour option for Sound windows
- Many fixes and improvements
- Any GoldWave plug-ins must be updated to work in the new version
- DirectX support is not included. The plug-in must be installed separately
- Images and figures for the manual are now included and do not have to be installed separately
- Windows 98 and ME are not supported
- The program icon has been updated, but may not be displayed by Windows because it caches the old icon. The old WAVE logo must not be used anymore.