Free music production software! Sounds like a big no. Right?
What if we tell you that there are some open source or free music production software that can make your music production career come true?
Sounds interesting? Let’s start reading.
This article is about free music production software that works on various OS like Windows, Mac, Linux, and more. Plus, we have also included free virtual instruments/VSTs and more that help you compose, mix, and master.
So if you like to make music on a computer or are trying to find some free software and plugins to start with. Your journey starts here.
So what is the best music production software in 2023?
Free Digital Audio Workstations (DAW):
Waveform Free
Waveform 12 Free, crafted by Tracktion Corporation, stands as a testament to the prowess of free digital audio workstations (DAWs). As the cornerstone of any music production software setup, Waveform Free offers an exceptional array of features without costing a penny.
Link – https://www.tracktion.com/products/waveform-free
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Waveform Free caters to a broad audience, available on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. Its versatility ensures accessibility for users on different operating systems.
Plugins:
Supporting VST plugins, Waveform Free empowers users to diversify their sonic palette with a plethora of third-party effects and instruments.
Features:
This DAW provides a comprehensive toolkit for audio creation. With unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, automation capabilities, a range of built-in effects, and virtual instruments, Waveform Free is a powerhouse for recording, editing, and mixing.
User Interface:
Recognized for its user-friendly and intuitive interface, Waveform Free caters to both novices and seasoned producers. Its design aims to streamline the music production process, fostering a creative and efficient workflow.
CPU Recommendations:
Waveform Free maintains moderate system requirements, ensuring accessibility for a broad range of users. While the exact demands may vary based on project complexity, it generally offers a smooth experience on a variety of setups.
Additional Notes:
As a stripped-down version of the full Waveform DAW, Waveform Free presents a compelling option for those seeking a feature-rich free DAW. It allows users to explore its capabilities before deciding to dive into the premium version.
BandLab
BandLab, a collaborative platform for music creation, extends its offerings with a robust free digital audio workstation (DAW). Positioned at the forefront of accessible music production, BandLab’s free DAW provides a collaborative and feature-rich environment for creators.
Link – https://www.bandlab.com/?lang=en
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
BandLab’s free DAW is platform-agnostic, supporting both online use and desktop applications. Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, or navigating through the web, BandLab ensures a seamless experience.
Plugins:
With a focus on community collaboration, BandLab integrates a variety of virtual instruments and effects directly within the platform. While it may not support external VST plugins, its internal offerings cater to a wide range of creative needs.
Features:
BandLab’s free DAW is more than just a recording tool; it’s a social platform for musicians. Features include a multi-track editor, virtual instruments, and collaborative functionalities, allowing users to create and share music effortlessly.
User Interface:
Known for its user-friendly interface, BandLab’s DAW welcomes both beginners and experienced musicians. The collaborative nature of the platform encourages users to connect, create, and inspire.
CPU Recommendations:
BandLab’s free DAW is optimized to run smoothly on various systems, ensuring a user-friendly experience without imposing heavy system requirements.
Additional Notes:
Beyond its DAW capabilities, BandLab offers a collaborative space where musicians can create, edit, and share their music in real-time, fostering a dynamic and engaging community.
Garageband
GarageBand, an Apple-exclusive gem, is a free digital audio workstation renowned for its seamless integration with macOS and iOS devices. As a testament to Apple’s commitment to creativity, GarageBand serves as an accessible entry point for musicians.
Link – https://www.apple.com/mac/garageband/
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Exclusive to the Apple ecosystem, GarageBand is a pre-installed DAW available on macOS and iOS devices. Its integration with Apple’s hardware and software enhances the overall user experience.
Plugins:
GarageBand comes equipped with a suite of virtual instruments and audio effects. While it may not support external VST plugins, its built-in offerings cover a wide spectrum of musical genres.
Features:
Designed with a user-friendly interface, GarageBand offers an array of features for music creation. From virtual instruments and loops to audio recording and editing, GarageBand is a versatile and intuitive tool.
User Interface:
GarageBand boasts a user-friendly interface tailored for Apple users. Its design aligns with the simplicity and elegance characteristic of Apple software, making it accessible to musicians of all skill levels.
CPU Recommendations:
Optimized for Apple devices, GarageBand runs smoothly on a range of Mac and iOS configurations. Its performance is finely tuned to deliver a responsive and efficient music production experience.
Additional Notes:
GarageBand’s seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem extends its functionality, allowing users to easily transition to more advanced DAWs like Logic Pro X as their skills evolve.
Ardour
Ardour, an open-source digital audio workstation, emerges as a powerful and versatile tool for music production. Developed by a dedicated community, Ardour stands out for its professional-grade capabilities and commitment to an open and collaborative ethos.
Link – https://ardour.org/
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Ardour is available for Linux and macOS, catering to users in the open-source and Apple ecosystems. Its cross-platform nature promotes accessibility for a diverse range of music creators.
Plugins:
Supporting both LV2 and VST plugins, Ardour provides users with an extensive library of options to enhance their sonic palette. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a wide array of third-party effects and instruments.
Features:
Ardour shines with advanced recording, editing, and mixing capabilities. With support for unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, automation, and a rich selection of built-in plugins, Ardour stands as a robust solution for complex projects.
User Interface:
While Ardour’s interface is feature-rich, it maintains an intuitive design for ease of use. Its professional-grade layout accommodates the needs of both seasoned producers and those stepping into the realm of advanced music production.
CPU Recommendations:
Given its professional capabilities, Ardour benefits from a powerful system for optimal performance. Its resource demands may vary based on the complexity of projects, requiring a moderately robust setup.
Additional Notes:
Ardour’s open-source nature not only ensures accessibility for all but also fosters a collaborative environment where users contribute to its continuous improvement.
LMMS (Linux MultiMedia Studio)
LMMS, an open-source digital audio workstation, stands out as a dedicated platform for electronic music enthusiasts. Offering a comprehensive set of features, LMMS provides a creative space for users to delve into the world of electronic music production.
Link – https://lmms.en.softonic.com/
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
LMMS is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, ensuring accessibility for a diverse community of music creators. Its cross-platform nature aligns with the inclusive ethos of open-source software.
Plugins:
LMMS includes built-in instruments and supports LADSPA and VST plugins. This versatility empowers users to experiment with various virtual instruments and effects, expanding their creative possibilities.
Features:
Tailored for electronic music production, LMMS offers a range of virtual instruments and synthesizers. With a user-friendly interface, it provides essential tools for creating beats, melodies, and intricate electronic compositions.
User Interface:
Known for its straightforward design, LMMS caters to both beginners and experienced electronic music producers. Its simplicity encourages exploration and experimentation in the realm of electronic sound design.
CPU Recommendations:
LMMS maintains moderate system requirements, ensuring smooth performance on a variety of computers. Its efficiency makes it an accessible choice for electronic music enthusiasts with diverse setups.
Additional Notes:
As an open-source project, LMMS fosters a collaborative environment where users contribute to its development, enhancing its features and expanding its capabilities.
Tracktion T7
Tracktion T7, formerly known as Traction, represents a compelling option in the realm of free digital audio workstations. As a versatile and user-friendly platform, Tracktion T7 provides a clean interface and functionality across various operating systems.
Link – https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2018/09/tracktion-7-daw-free
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Tracktion T7 caters to Windows, Mac, and Linux users, offering a seamless experience across different operating systems. Its cross-platform compatibility ensures accessibility for a diverse user base.
Plugins:
Supporting VST plugins, Tracktion T7 allows users to expand their creative toolkit with a wide range of third-party tools and effects. This integration enhances the platform’s capabilities, providing users with ample options for sonic exploration.
Features:
Known for its clean interface, Tracktion T7 includes a variety of audio effects and virtual instruments. It strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, making it suitable for users with diverse music production needs.
User Interface:
Tracktion T7’s interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Its streamlined design aims to minimize complexity while offering essential tools, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced producers.
CPU Recommendations:
Tracktion T7 has moderate system requirements, ensuring optimal performance on a range of computers. Its efficiency allows users to engage in music production without the need for high-end hardware.
Additional Notes:
As a free DAW option, Tracktion T7 provides users with a taste of professional-grade features. It serves as a stepping stone for those exploring music production before delving into more advanced and feature-rich platforms.
Free Audio Editing Software
Audacity
Audacity, an open-source and versatile audio editor, has been a go-to choice for users seeking a robust yet simple tool for audio recording and editing. As a free and accessible solution, Audacity has carved its place in the realm of audio production.
Link – https://www.audacityteam.org/
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Audacity stands as a cross-platform solution, available on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its widespread compatibility ensures that users can harness its capabilities regardless of their operating system.
Plugins:
While Audacity has limited support for VST plugins, it compensates with a variety of built-in effects and essential processing tools. This allows users to enhance and modify their audio recordings without relying extensively on external plugins.
Features:
Audacity serves as a straightforward audio editor, providing essential recording and editing capabilities. It’s a versatile tool suitable for simple projects, offering a gentle learning curve for beginners entering the world of audio production.
User Interface:
Known for its simplicity, Audacity caters to users who prefer a clean and intuitive interface. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible to a broad audience, including those new to audio editing.
CPU Recommendations:
Audacity is notably light on system resources, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of computers. Its efficiency makes it an excellent choice for users with varying system specifications.
Additional Notes:
As a stalwart in the open-source community, Audacity continues to evolve, and its user-friendly interface makes it an excellent starting point for those venturing into audio editing.
Wavepad
WavePad, a powerful and accessible audio editing software, has earned its stripes as a reliable choice for users in search of a robust yet user-friendly tool for audio manipulation. As a free solution, WavePad has firmly established itself in the landscape of audio production.
Link – https://www.nch.com.au/wavepad/index.html
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
WavePad stands as a versatile cross-platform solution, seamlessly running on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its broad compatibility ensures users can tap into its features, regardless of their operating system.
Plugins:
While WavePad may have limited support for external VST plugins, it compensates with an array of built-in effects and essential processing tools. This enables users to enhance and tweak their audio recordings without heavy reliance on external plugins.
Features:
WavePad positions itself as a straightforward and versatile audio editor, offering essential recording and editing capabilities. It’s an adaptable tool suitable for a variety of projects, featuring a user-friendly learning curve ideal for newcomers to the realm of audio production.
User Interface:
Renowned for its intuitive design, WavePad caters to users who appreciate a clean and user-friendly interface. Its straightforward layout makes it accessible to a diverse audience, including those who are new to audio editing.
CPU Recommendations:
WavePad demonstrates efficiency by being light on system resources, making it compatible with a broad spectrum of computers. Its optimized performance makes it an excellent choice for users with varying system specifications.
Additional Notes:
As a stalwart in the world of audio editing, WavePad continues to evolve, offering a friendly interface that serves as an excellent starting point for individuals venturing into the realm of audio manipulation.
Ocenaudio
Ocenaudio, an intuitive and feature-rich audio editing software, has firmly established itself as a dependable choice for users seeking a powerful yet user-friendly tool for audio refinement. As a cross-platform solution, Ocenaudio has become a notable player in the realm of audio production.
Link – https://www.ocenaudio.com/en/startpage
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Ocenaudio stands as a versatile cross-platform solution, seamlessly running on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its wide compatibility ensures users can harness its capabilities across various operating systems.
Plugins:
While Ocenaudio may have limited support for external VST plugins, it compensates with an array of built-in effects and essential processing tools. This empowers users to elevate and modify their audio recordings without heavy reliance on external plugins.
Features:
Ocenaudio positions itself as an intuitive audio editor, providing essential recording and editing capabilities. It serves as a flexible tool suitable for a variety of projects, featuring a user-friendly learning curve ideal for those new to the world of audio production.
User Interface:
Renowned for its simplicity, Ocenaudio caters to users who value a clean and intuitive interface. Its straightforward design makes it accessible to a diverse audience, including those who are just stepping into the world of audio editing.
CPU Recommendations:
Ocenaudio showcases efficiency by being light on system resources, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of computers. Its optimized performance makes it an excellent choice for users with varying system specifications.
Additional Notes:
As a stalwart in the audio editing arena, Ocenaudio continues to evolve, offering a user-friendly interface that serves as an excellent starting point for individuals exploring the realm of audio refinement.
Wavosaur
Wavosaur, a lightweight yet efficient audio editing software, has emerged as a reliable choice for users in search of a streamlined yet powerful tool for audio manipulation. As a user-friendly solution, Wavosaur has earned its place in the toolkit of audio production enthusiasts.
Link – https://www.wavosaur.com/
Key Attributes:
Platforms:
Wavosaur stands as a versatile cross-platform solution, seamlessly running on Windows. Its compatibility ensures users can leverage its features on Windows operating systems.
Plugins:
While Wavosaur may have limited support for external VST plugins, it compensates with its lightweight design and essential processing tools. This allows users to enhance and tweak their audio recordings without overwhelming dependence on external plugins.
Features:
Wavosaur positions itself as a lightweight and efficient audio editor, providing essential recording and editing capabilities. It caters to users with straightforward projects, featuring a minimal learning curve ideal for those new to audio production.
User Interface:
Renowned for its simplicity, Wavosaur caters to users who appreciate a clean and minimalist interface. Its straightforward layout makes it accessible to a diverse audience, including those who are new to audio editing.
CPU Recommendations:
Wavosaur showcases efficiency by being light on system resources, making it a suitable choice for users with varying system specifications.
Additional Notes:
As a notable contender in the audio editing realm, Wavosaur continues to provide a straightforward interface, making it a convenient starting point for individuals venturing into the world of audio manipulation.
Summary
The free music production software article above is our way of helping musicians improve their music composition, mixing, and mastering games. As time in the studio progresses, you will develop your own sets of tools that will build your signature sounds.
Always remember, it is all about practicing your craft every day and becoming the best version of yourself. You need to master it all. Mastering a few only will make you better than the top 10% of producers.
Use the tools mentioned properly and keep creating good music.
