Since way back in the 90’s, when home recording first started…
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Podcast Recording Software For macOS GarageBand. GarageBand is a free DAW (digital audio workstation) if you have a Mac. This is a great choice for first-time and even experienced podcasters. You can easily create separate tracks for music, intros and outros, ad spots, and more. Podcast Recording Software For macOS GarageBand. GarageBand is a free DAW (digital audio workstation) if you have a Mac. This is a great choice for first-time and even experienced podcasters. You can easily create separate tracks for music, intros and outros, ad spots, and more.
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And the earliest versions of the modern DAW began emerging…
People have always argued about which one is best.
And as the options continually improve, the debate rages on.
For beginners starting out, that makes for a tough decision, doesn’t it?
So to help you guys with the all-too-common problem…
For today’s post I’ve created an in-depth guide covering the best DAW’s.
But before we get to it, let me first answer the one question you’re all probably wondering…
Free vs Paid DAW’s
Are there free DAW’s out there? Yes.
Should you use them?
In my opinion…No.
But if you can’t take my word for it, try one out for yourself.
Personally, I recommend checking out Audacity, as it’s the most popular free DAW on the planet.
Now at this point, you have two choices:
- Waste 2 weeks playing with Audacity, only to decide you need something better.
- Or skip that part, and get something better now.
If you chose option 1, I’ll see you back here in 2 weeks.
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If you chose option 2, let’s move on…
Limited vs. Full Versions
Rather than using a free crappy DAW…the smarter plan is to use a “limited” version of a paid DAW instead.
Many companies offer these versions specifically to accommodate smaller home studios on a budget.
Most are cheap, some are even free, yet they still include 95% of the same features of the full version.
Since only advanced engineers tend to use the “premium” features, you probably won’t even miss them.
And if you want to upgrade to a professional platform one day in the future, you can do so without having to learn an entirely new DAW from scratch.
So if you want to start off with something free (or at least cheap)…THAT’S the plan I recommend.
Moving on…
The Top DAW’s
Poll 1000 studios to ask them which DAW they prefer…and you’ll hear a pretty wide range of opinions.
But listen to enough “expert” opinions, and the same few names appear over and over. Because they are the ones that have developed a strong reputation in the industry over many years.
And since each of these DAW’s has been used on countless hit recordings, they’re ALL perfectly capable of professional results.
So here they are, in no particular order, starting with…
1. Presonus Studio One 4
Long known in the audio industry for making quality hardware at affordable prices…
Presonus recently decided to add their own DAW line as well.
So with the help of several formal developers from Steinberg Cubase…
Presonus released the first version of Studio One back in 2009.
Since then, it has quickly risen to become a serious competitor of other top DAW’s.
Click below to check out each version.
- Studio One PRIME – (free download)
- Studio One ARTIST – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Studio One PROFESSIONAL – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
Bedroom producers find this DAW particularly appealing, because Studio One Artist, is included free with any of the following audio interfaces:
- AudioBox USB – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- AudioBox iTwo – (Compatible with iPad) – (Amazon/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Audiobox 44VSL – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
Up next…
2. Cakewalk SONAR
While it’s probably my least favorite option on the list…
Cakewalk Sonar has ranked among the top DAW’s for years now…
And is definitely worthy of mention.
But here’s why I don’t care for it:
These days, virtually every top DAW is cross-compatible on both Windows and Mac…
Yet for some reason, Sonar is a Windows only program.
PC lovers might not care, yet no one can argue that a HUGE percentage of musicians are Mac users.
And if you EVER plan to collaborate with any of them…Sonar is probably NOT your best option.
Having said that, here are 2 things I like about Sonar:
- The X3 and Studio versions are insanely affordable.
- Sonar uses serial numbers to unlock their software, rather than the complicated USB dongles required by most DAW’s.
Click below to see prices/reviews for each version.
- Cakewalk Sonar ARTIST – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Cakewalk Sonar PROFESSIONAL – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Cakewalk Sonar PLATINUM – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
UPDATE: it seems the development of Sonar has now stopped — officially, but still continues as a freeware, meaning the developer is not the former one anymore. And for that reason I would no longer recommend it as one of the top DAW’s, as its development and updates might not be reliable anymore .
Up next…
3. FL Studio
Formerly known as Fruity Loops…but after a run-in with Kelloggs, who thought people may confuse it with their breakfast cereal…
Over a decade ago, Image-Line officially changed the name of their classic software to FL Studio.
A top choice for Hip-Hop, EDM musicians and DJ’s…
It’s a big hit with ‘in-the-box’ producers due to its:
- spreadsheet-like Playlist
- flexible Piano roll
- extensive automation capabilities
One of the coolest things about FL Studio is…it’s the only DAW on the list offering FREE lifetime updates.
Purchase either the Producer or Signature bundle and you’ll never have to give them money…ever again. Awesome, huh?
Click below to see prices/reviews for each version.
- FL Studio 20 FRUITY – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF)
- FL Studio 20 PRODUCER – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF)
- FL Studio 20 SIGNATURE – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
NOTE: the Fruity Edition does not have audio recording…So avoid it unless you ONLY produce electronic music.
They also offer a cool mobile version known as FL Studio Mobile.
Up next…
4. Propellerhead Reason
Much more than just your average DAW…
Propellerhead Reason offers one HUGE feature that the others don’t.
In addition to being a solid stand-alone DAW…
It also functions as a suite of virtual instruments that can be used in combination with other DAW’s.
With Reason, electronic musicians can easily collaborate with producers working on virtually any platform.
For those who prefer the look and feel of REAL analog gear…
Its visual interface mimics the design of an actual studio rack, even allowing rear access for cable patching.
So if you like virtual instruments, Reason is definitely worth a closer look.
Click below to see prices for each version.
- Reason 10 INTRO – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Reason 10 (FULL) – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
Up next…
5. Ableton Live
What makes Ableton Live so unique…
Is the fact that it was originally designed as an instrument for live performances.
And while it has since evolved into a complete recording package…
Seamless live performing is still one of its primary goals.
This fact is clearly demonstrated, first, with a visual interface that fits entirely on a single laptop screen.
And second, by the MANY 3rd party hardware controllers designed specifically for the software.
The most popular ones include:
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- Ableton Push 2 (w/Live 9 Intro) – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Akai Professional APC Mini – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Novation Launchpad – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
If a live performance tool is what you need, Ableton Live is what I recommend.
Click below to see prices/reviews for each version.
- Ableton Live 10 INTRO – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Ableton Live 10 STANDARD – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Ableton Live 10 SUITE – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
Up next…
6. MOTU Digital Performer
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One of the oldest DAW’s in existence…
The first version of Digital Performer appeared way back in 1990…
Originally as the front-end of a Digidesign system that would later become Pro Tools.
Earlier “MIDI only” versions of the software existed as far back as 1984.
Throughout that time, Digital Performer was known famously as the “Mac only” option.
Which is big deal, since back then, and even more so today, the large majority of audio professionals love Apple.
Still, for that reason, they probably missed out on a lot of potential users. But no more…
Because with their latest release, they’ve finally made themselves cross-compatible with Windows as well.
I suppose it’s about damn time, huh? ?
- Digital Performer 9 – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusicianF/Thomann)
Moving on…
7. Steinberg Cubase
The OTHER “old-timer” on this list…
The original version of Cubase was released by Steinberg back in 1989, which at the time, was MIDI only.
Not long afterward in 1992, they released TWO major advancements to the software…
Adding BOTH support for audio, and Windows compatibility.
From that point forward, they continued to refine the technology, contributing several major advancements to the music industry along the way.
Their greatest claim to fame was their introduction of VST plugins in 1996, and VST instruments in 1999, both of which became industry standards for many years after.
And even today, Cubase has managed to somehow remain just as relevant as they have been for the past several decades.
Click below to see prices/reviews for each version.
- Steinberg Cubase Elements 10 – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Steinberg Cubase Artist 10 – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
- Steinberg Cubase Pro 10 – (Amazon/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann)
Next up…
8. Cockos Reaper
Founded back in 2004…
The developers from Cockos Incorporated began the process of building Reaper (Rapid Environment for Audio Prototyping and Efficient Recording)…
With a unique bootstrapping business model that quickly positioned them as the top “alternative” to the mainstream DAW’s.
With no advertising budget, Reaper was able to build its popularity almost entirely through word-of-mouth from enthusiastic users who loved in the product.
The first big selling point of Reaper is its extremely frequent update releases, which add improvements based on the feedback of users.
The second selling point is its price structure. As of now, there is only one version of Reaper, which can be downloaded for free, and offers full unrestricted use with no time limit.
Their only request, is that after 60 days of using their software…you purchase either a $60 discounted license for private use, or a $225 commercial license if your business is making money.
And yes…I said “request“. Their entire business model is based on the honor system of their customers. Yet somehow, Reaper is still far cheaper than virtually any other DAW on this list.
To download the free trial, or purchase a license, click here.
Up next…
9. Apple Logic Pro X
Back in 2002, a small company known as Emagic built the first version of Logic…
Which must have looked promising to Apple…
Because they bought it soon afterward.
And it turned out to be a great investment, because since then Logic has grown to become one of the top DAW’s in the world.
No surprise, it is the only DAW on this list NOT compatible with Windows.
And while PC users might complain, Mac users can rejoice. And here’s why:
By keeping it a “Mac only” platform, Logic users are assured that virtually any audio interface compatible with Mac OSX will work with Logic as well.
And since these days Macs are so damn popular with musicians…
Audio interface makers know that OSX compatibility is a MUST. Ultimately this means a TON of interface options for the end users.
For the latest version of Logic Pro X, you need to visit the App Store and purchase the digital download.
Up last on the list, the king of all DAW’s…
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10. Avid Pro Tools
In this day and age, Pro Tools has practically become a household name.
Because for many years now…
![Daw Daw](/uploads/1/3/3/9/133902188/280121464.png)
It has been the industry standard in music recording.
Everyone uses it…in pro studios, and home studios alike.
And that alone, is a strong argument why you might want to use it as well.
Be aware though, that Pro Tools also has more haters than any of the DAW’s on this list (and some of them may even have valid points).
But all this really means is that no DAW is perfect, and each one has both its stronger and weaker points.
So is Pro Tools right for everyone? Of course not. But if you’re a complete beginner, and you really have no idea what to start with, I’d strongly recommend it as a good default option.
Currently, there are 3 versions of Pro Tools available:
- Pro Tools First – the beginner version, which is totally free, and can be downloaded here.
- Pro Tools – the intermediate version, ideal for independant musicians
- Pro Tools Ultimate – the professional version, which offers much more features then the regular version and is ideal for professional recording studios.
I recommend starting with the regular version of Pro Tools if you can afford it. And if not, use Pro Tools First instead.
Anyways so that’s the list, hope you enjoyed it. ?
What’s Next?
Once you’ve chosen a DAW for your studio, next comes the difficult process of actually installing it.
And when I say difficult, I mean DIFFICULT!
My first time took me a full two days of work before finally getting things working. Ask any old-timer what his first time was like, and he’ll probably have a horror story for you as well.
Just know that a little frustration here is typical, and it does NOT mean your DAW sucks. That’s just how they are.
Be patient, and know that you only have to do this once.
Then again, it’s been years since I’ve had to do it myself, so maybe it’s no longer as hard as it once was.
Good luck ?
Best Free DAWs for music, sound design, and anything audio. These are the best free daws for Windows (pc), Mac & Linux in 2019!
There are even some free daws for mobile and online (browser).
A Digital Audio Workstation is an essential tool for the modern audio engineer or producer, so why not learn what's out there?
Chart of the best Free Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
DAW Name | Plugin Support | OS Support |
---|---|---|
Bosca Ceoil | N/A (built-in) | Windows, Mac, Linux, Online |
LMMS | VST, SoundFont, LADSPA (64 & 32-bit) | Windows, Mac, Linux |
Tracktion T7 | VST & AU (64 & 32-bit) | Windows, Mac, Linux |
Ohm Studio | VST | Windows, Mac, Linux |
SoundBridge | VST (64 & 32-bit) | Windows |
Cakewalk | VST (64 & 32-bit) | Windows |
Garageband | AU | Mac |
Qtracktor | LADSPA, DSSI, NativeVSTi, LV2 | Linux |
Rosegarden | LADSPA, DSSI, VSTi, VST, LV2 | Linux |
Audiotool | N/A (built-in) | Online |
Soundtrap | N/A(built-in) | Online |
Audacity | VST, AU, LADSPA, Nyquist (64 & 32-bit effect plugins only) | Windows, Mac, Linux |
MixPad | VST (64-bit effect plugins only) | Windows, Mac |
WavePad | VST, DirectX (64-bit) | Windows, Mac |
Now, it's worth mentioning if you have a plugin that isn't supported by a DAW that you want to use it with, there are ways around it.
By using a plugin wrapper, you can load (for example, a VST plugin into a DAW that only supports AU). You can even turn 64-bit plugins into 32-bit, and vice-versa. It all depends on what the plugin wrapper can do.
Top FREE DAWs For any OS
Bosca Ceoil
Supported Plugin Formats: N/A
Bosca Ceoil is not only a downloadable DAW but it can also be used directly on your browser. This DAW is dedicated to chiptune and other low-bit styles of music, and it's got some pack to its punch.
It all comes as-is, so you won't be able to use any third party plugins or effects directly in the DAW, but it's not like you'll need any.
With its simplicity, this is a great tool for audio producers of any skill and even game developers who want to do their own music.
LMMS
Supported Plugin Formats: VST / SoundFont / LADSPA
Now, if chiptune or bit-music is your thing and you want to also use your own plugins or simply want to be in more of a standard DAW environment, LMMS has got you covered.
It comes with quite a few plugins that emulate those nostalgic video game sounds and is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It’s also said to be like FL Studio.
Tracktion T7
Supported Plugin Formats: VST / AU
Available on the 3 major operating systems, T7 is fully-featured free DAW has a nice UI. With unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, you won’t run into any roadblocks.
Ohm Studio
Supported Plugin Formats: VST
Ohm studio has an amazing feature that is really rare for a DAW to have. With Ohm studio, you can collaborate real-time with anyone, anywhere.
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This means you can work on the same project at the same time with more than one person from anywhere in the world. You can chat in the DAW and see what they're doing as well.
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Soundbridge
Supported Plugin Formats: VST
SoundBridge (previously known as Lumit) has a very unique and easy to understand interface, which is great for newcomers in audio especially.
It comes with a few stock effects and a powerful drum machine called Ritmix.
Cakewalk
Supported Plugin Formats: VST
Cakewalk by Bandlab is a free DAW that used to be a popular paid one called Sonar (by Cakewalk). This gives the DAW some great premium-grade features that were made to cost money.
FREE DAWs For Mac
Garageband
Supported Plugin Formats: AU
Sharing a near-identical User Interface with Apple's flagship DAW, Logic, you have a seamless upgrade path to one of the leading DAWs in the industry. Not to mention there is a Garageband app for IOS so you can make your music wherever you are.
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Its simplicity and arsenal of sounds will have you ready to produce even at entry-level. There is an abundance of resources to learn from, all interactive, all integrated into the DAW.
FREE DAWs For Linux
Qtractor
Supported Plugin Formats: LADSPA / DSSI / NativeVSTi / LV2
Qtracktor comes with many unlimited features and its open source, so its updates are virtually unlimited too.
This DAW is updated very frequently (~every few months) so you can look forward to more out of this as you develop your skill.
Rosegarden
Supported Plugin Formats: LADSPA / DSSI / VSTi / VST / LV2
If you understand sheet music or want to learn more about it and have access to a Linux computer, Rosegarden is definitely worth experimenting with.
It comes with a notation editor, so you can actually write a song using sheet music, or simply use the piano roll, which is the MIDI editor.
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FREE Online DAWs (Browser)
Audiotool
Supported Plugin Formats: N/A
If you'd rather make your music online or on the go, Audiotool is the perfect DAW.
With everything being cloud-based, you can collaborate and access your projects much easier, so you can go from your computer, to your phone, then to your friend's computer.
After you've made your music, you can actually publish it through Audiotool's built-in publishing platform.
Use Audiotool For Free Here (Press app on the navbar to launch.)
Soundtrap
Supported Plugin Formats: N/A
If you just can't sit still when you produce your music or like to work on-the-go, Soundtrap works on any device. Your phone, tablet, laptop or computer, you name it.
This is a good choice for those who just want to quickly get a song down without access to a professional DAW on a computer.
Audio Editors (Semi-DAWs)
Audacity
Supported Plugin Formats: VST / AU / LADSPA / Nyquist
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This audio editor is a go-to for anyone involved with podcasts or voice acting. It comes with plenty of effects built in. The use of plugins with Audacity is limited to effects.
Currently, there is no support for instruments. However, this DAW doesn’t come with the ability to edit MIDI and is focused on recording and audio editing.
MixPad
Supported Plugin Formats: VST
A simple free DAW that works on both Windows and Mac, this software can let you record multiple tracks at once. There is also a royalty-free sound library included with it.
In this, you can export files via many different formats or directly upload to SoundCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive.
WavePad
Supported Plugin Formats: VST / DirectX
With a similar feel to Audacity, this audio editor comes with some simple to use features for audio production. Although there is no support for virtual instrument plugins for this Digital Audio Workstation, it’s still a good way to edit and record live.
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There you go, a list of amazing free DAWs that you can use to start (or continue) making music with.
No excuses, go to the library and use a computer there if you have to.
If you'd like to check out some options that cost money, you might enjoy The Best Paid DAWs.
I hope you found this list insightful, don’t forget to share this article if you liked it. Thanks for reading!