There is not really a "best". Everyone thinks different, has an own point of view.
That doesn't take away there are standarts

.
There are a lot of produce-softwares wich are also very good to record with. Examples: Ableton live, cooledit(now adobe audition), and so on.
(correct me if i'm wrong)
I use Nero Wave Editor.
PS. I think this topic would have a prettier life in the forum
Producers Studio