I use the Audacity software to edit sound files. It’s open source, free, and the learning curve was not bad at all. Within 30 minutes I was creating my own custom ringtones for my Instinct.

Some tips on using Audacity

• DO download the LAME MP3 encoder (see this from the Audacity FAQ) – this allows you to export mp3 files
• If you use iTunes, you may need to convert your files from .m4a to .aac for import into Audacity
• Take advantage of the Zoom function to get more precise control of where you place your cropping marks

I then use the rumkin.com uploader to upload the ringtones to my phone.

At some point in time, you will need to upload files to your phone. There are many phone uploader apps on the web, I use the one from Tyler Atkins at

http://rumkin.com/tools/sprint/index.php

This allows you to upload games, ringtones, and applications to the appropriate place on your phone. Just enter your phone number, browse to the file on your PC, then upload. The website will send a text message to your phone, then using your phone, browse to the link and download the file.

Tyler provides this service for free, but his efforts deserve being rewarded – please consider donating to him while on his site.