Can't open version 2.4.2.0

Hello and help! I currently use Audacity 2.3.3.0 on my Macbook Pro running OS X El Capitan 10.11.6

I want to start using the newer version of Audacity 2.4.2.0, but when I follow the instructions and left click open it from the Apps list, it says, “The application Audacity can’t be opened.” I followed all the install steps correctly, so I don’t know what else to do.

Note: I have not deleted the old version from my machine yet, because I use it so much, I’m afraid to delete it, if the new one won’t open/work. Could that be the problem – that I do need to delete the old version first? I am NO tech wizard over here, so I’d appreciate 3rd grader level help instructions, please.

One reason I want to start using the newer version is that I get digital glitch noises sometimes when I’m recording, so I’m hoping the newer version will remedy that.

I apologize in advance if this has been asked/answered elsewhere on this forum. I spent the last 1/2 hour reading posts, but couldn’t find this particular question, and I didn’t understand the tech answers to the posts with similar questions.

Thank you in advance!

It’s safe to remove it. Old versions of Audacity are still available on FossHub.


Yes that could be the problem, though you do not normally need to delete the old version first. Normally you would overwrite the old version and that will update it to the new version.

I’d suggest that you uninstall all versions of Audacity from your computer, and then install Audacity 2.4.2.

Thank you! :slight_smile: