A method implemented in an audio editing device comprises retrieving, by the editing device, audio content and obtaining from a user via the user interface an effect to be applied to the audio content. The method further comprises determining a target number of samples based on the obtained effect, obtaining the target number of samples of the audio content, and identifying, within the obtained target number of samples, a maximum amplitude and a minimum amplitude. The method further comprises applying the effect to the obtained target number of samples and displaying on the user interface, a graphical representation of the obtained target number of samples with the applied effect, wherein the graphical representation depicts amplitude varying as a function of time, wherein displaying the graphical representation is performed prior to generating an audio output file with the effect applied to the audio content.