10 Best Music Production Software – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Software for Music Production – Guide & Comparison

 

This article will help you find the best music production software, especially if you haven’t got the time to browse all the websites you can find on this subject. Our team did all the research for you and after carefully looking at some of the most popular pieces of software and seeing what experts and users had to say, we came to the conclusion that Propellerhead Reason 10 is the digital audio workstation that you should be looking for. This is a good choice for any aspiring producer, as it has an interface that is easy to follow. It is also a piece of software that is versatile and offers many possibilities. Furthermore, it has a huge library of loops and effects that you can use to create some great music. If you can’t find our first recommendation, you should look for the Samplitude Music Studio Version 2021, which is another easy music production software.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Music Production Software (Reviews) in 2021

 

 

We had a look at what users and experts had to say about the best music production software for Windows and also music production software for Mac, and we found out that there are some pieces of software that work great on both platforms. We could say that the following are our favorites for plenty of reasons, so check them out.

 

 

1. Propellerhead Reason 10 Multitrack Recording Software

 

This is Propellerhead’s newest and most performant DAW (digital audio workstation) and it will help you solve many issues in the studio. If you had the experience to use previous Reason iterations, you will be pleased to find out this one comes with the same accessible user interface.

It is not an ugly software, although it is a production software that puts more emphasis on efficiency and functionality rather than style. It’s an ideal piece of software for smaller screens as it offers you all you need to know in a small frame. When it comes to features, this software has always been a great asset for those looking for a recording software or to mix the sound, but it can also do well if you want to create music from nothing.

The tenth variant of this software focuses on new instruments and effects that you can use in your music. You get two new synthesizers on it, and also a lot of improvements when it comes to synth sounds, but also other sampled instruments and loops. The DAW will offer you enough flexibility to experiment with different patterns.

You get over 3GB of sampled instruments and loops, so you can have everything you need to create your own music from scratch.

 

Pros

It has an easy-to-understand interface and even though you didn’t work with the previous versions, starting with this one will be easy.

The product offers everything you need if you’re looking for audio recording software or mixing potential.

With the introduction of the new synthesizers, you will be able to find new sounds for interesting pieces of music.

You can always make use of the huge library of loops and sampled instruments, and that helps you when creating music from scratch.

The software also offers the possibility to increase its range of sounds and effects with different plugins that can be installed.

You also get the possibility to stretch or slide across your audio file as you see fit.

 

Cons

The main flaw of this software is that it uses a basic theme and the layout will leave you with little space to work on, which can be a problem for bigger projects. 

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2. Samplitude Music Studio Version 2021

 

2020 may not have had the best start but it may give you the perfect opportunity to experiment with new sounds and create quality music, even if you’re on lockdown. 

The 2021 version of the popular recording software grants you access to hundreds of acoustic and electric musical instruments, loops, and effects, so you can experiment with new sounds and start creating your own tracks like a professional. 

The software is suitable for Windows users and can be installed if you meet the minimum system requirements, including a Microsoft Windows version 7 and above, 4 GB Ram (64-bit), and about 10 GB of free space. To complete the installation process and validate the program, you’ll also need an Internet connection. 

The latest version of the Samplitude Music Studio software includes 10 new virtual instruments, 6 sound pools, and hundreds of new sounds and loops to experiment with. The user-friendly interface and instructions will guide you through the installation process and help you quickly discover your way around the software. 

 

Pros

The 2021 version of the popular software throws in several new instruments, sound pools, loops, and sounds to experiment with so that you can create the perfect music.

It comes with a user-friendly interface and is easy to work around, even by inexperienced players and musicians. 

The Samplitude Music Studio 2021 has minimum system requirements and works perfectly on the newest versions of Windows, 7, 8, and 10. 

Included in the package you’ll also Automation Lanes for optimal control and overview of your track automation data, as well as a plug-in browser to locate your plug-ins faster. 

 

Cons

Unfortunately, this virtual recording studio is only available for customers in the United States and will only work on Windows PC. Mac users will have to look for additional programs and software if they want to record music on their computers. 

The program also requires a one-time registration but doesn’t guarantee free updates and upgrades when they will become available. 

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3. Image Line FL Studio 20 Producer Edition

 

FL Studio has always been known as a very colorful piece of software, and this edition is no different. The number 20 in the name shows that the software has been useful for musicians around the globe for 20 years. Artists like Avicii, Martin Garrix, or Afrojack all have used this software.

This new software incorporates everything the old FL Studio 12 had, including the super-fast features that were so intuitive to use. Beginners will be able to start this software and create some music right from the start. It also allows you to quickly edit MIDI information with the help of the piano roll, which shares information with the step-sequencer.

One of the main features the software is known for is the “quirky” graphics, which attract newcomers but it also looks a bit too playful for some. But this new DAW comes with improved and precise vector graphics that will look great on any monitor, including 4k models.

Furthermore, you can now edit, record, and mix audio signals more easily. You are also able to drag-and-drop items from your PC onto the project and they will be sorted automatically. Additionally, this new model is also compatible with Mac devices.

 

Pros

This is one of the most popular production software out there, as it is known for how versatile it is and that is why many artists use it.

You won’t find many other digital audio workstations that are easier to use than this one. The controls are intuitive and the software helps you in your work, making many aspects automatic.

The software offers you the possibility to use it on PC and Mac devices too, without running the risk of it crashing, as it used to do before when using emulators.

Usually, rendering a piece of music that you created can take hours, but with the help of the new rendering options of this software, you can do that fast.

 

Cons

Apart from the fact that the software is now compatible with Mac devices, users say that the improvements compared to previous releases are insignificant.

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4. Steinberg Cubase Pro 9 Recording Software Professional

 

Right from the start, this software has a nostalgic look, with a minimalist design. The workspace is neatly organized, and there is now a new lower zone that comes with added features. This zone makes it easier for users to go through the interface and navigate it with. Everything about this software is smooth, partly because of the minimalist look.

This is one DAW that is known for how many features it can offer. The 9th version of the software brings back old aspects, but it also revamps them and offers some new things too. There is a new Sampler Track, which will help you in your work with samples, making things more accessible.

After years of experience, the creators of this software listened to their customers’ feedback and ended up creating a product to please most of them. In terms of performance, this is one DAW that runs smoothly, and you won’t get crashes when using it.

Although the software is hard to master at first, those that have used previous editions will have an easy time getting accustomed to the new features. This piece of software is a versatile one and it does well in every aspect, from composing and recording to mixing and editing.

 

Pros

If you’re using one single monitor you will be delighted with the new lower zone that simplifies the navigation through the piece of music you are creating.

The new Sampler Track is a great tool for those that work with samples a lot and it is also intuitive to use by less experienced users.

The fact that this software can help you do pretty much everything in a studio is great for music producers that don’t have a great budget and are looking for something that can let them do everything.

Its simple design helps it run smoothly and makes it avoid crashes.

 

Cons

Newcomers will have little to no clue how to use the production software and it will take some time for them to get used to it.

There still are some minor quirks that need to be resolved but they don’t impact the creative process that much.

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5. NCH Software WavePad Audio Editing Software 

 

If you’re looking for a product that comes with all the features you’d expect from a professional audio editing software, but that it is still accessible to novices, this option fits the bill. It has a very intuitive user interface, and it comes with VST plugin support so that users can have access to thousands of additional effects and tools.

It is also worth praising the clean and inviting layout that this software has since even though it houses hundreds of different features and settings, it manages to remain very easy to navigate and find the right settings even for a first time user. It is compatible with all popular audio formats including MP3, WAV, WMA, FLAC, and many more.

You can add effects, such as noise reduction, echo, reverb, reverse, amplification, and more. Editing different projects at the same time is also possible since you can set bookmarks along multiple files.

 

Pros

You can load music files directly from a CD, and you can work with multiple files at the same time and on different screens.

The user interface is very clean, and this makes it easy to navigate even for a novice who has never used the software before.

It can extract the audio data from video files, and it is compatible with all the popular video file formats, including MP4, MPG, M4V, MOV, WMV, and DV.

Since the software includes integrated VST plugin support, users also have access to thousands of additional tools and effects.

 

Cons

The customer service needs a bit of work since the way it is right now, if you have any issue with your purchase, it can take a long time for it to get solved.

You can only record one audio source at a time, and it doesn’t offer support for multitracking by default, but there are plugins that give you this functionality.

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6. Reason Studios AB Multitrack Recording Software

 

This software can be used as a standalone studio since it comes with all the instruments, utilities, effects, and more available at just a few clicks away. You can record and edit your music in the sequencer section of the user interface, and here you can work quickly with unlimited audio and MIDI tracks.

The editing tools are designed to be easy to use so that even someone who’s never used this music production software before can get started right away. Another great selling for this model is the mixer, which is modeled to look like an analog mixing desk to make it more familiar to the average user.

Moreover, the mixer includes all the features you expect, such as full dynamics, flexible routing, advanced effects handling, EQ, groups and parallel channels, full automation, and more. This is just scratching the surface since the software is filled with many other little details and features waiting for you to discover.

 

Pros 

The Reason Rack plugin gives the user access to a large selection of synths, effects, instruments, and sounds to use with any setup.

You can use this software as a plugin in your favorite DAW or as a standalone studio to produce music without having to use any other 3rd party software.

If you’re looking to experiment, the Reason Rack plugin also gives you access to modular-style routing of audio and control voltages.

With the help of the Reason sequencer, you can record and edit your music without distractions, and you can also use unlimited audio and MIDI tracks.

It is compatible with both Mac OS and Windows computers.

 

Cons

If you want to get access to more instruments, audio, and MIDI effects, you will need to pay and upgrade to the Suite version.

The box doesn’t include a disc, and instead, you will get a code inside that you can use to download the software on your PC.

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7. Magix Music Maker 2021 Premium Edition

 

Making music has never been easier with the help of the latest edition of the popular Magix music software. The 2021 edition is packed with customizable audio software that allows you to choose from different loops, instruments, sounds, and other features that are worth over $900 if you would purchase them separately.

The recording is made easily via keyboard, mouse, and record vocals. The software doesn’t only allow you to create new music but also allows you to mix it and finalize your track with the help of a wide array of professional effects.

It also delivers pro audio engine and multicore support for complex projects that require a higher level of expertise and professional recording equipment. What’s even better, the software is available in various languages aside from English, including Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Dutch.

This product allows you to receive regular updates for free and have access to the latest features.

 

Pros

The software consists of a massive collection of sounds and loops, allowing you to combine your favorite genres of music and creating unique sounds. All loops are available in 7 different pitches for increased customization.

You can control all virtual instruments (concert guitars, drum machines, and others) with the help of a standard or Midi keyboard, mouse, or the software’s Audio remote app.

Add more dynamics and power to your sound by finalizing the tracks with the help of the Mastering Wizard that includes more than 70 presets for different applications.

What we liked the most is that once you purchase the software, you will keep on receiving free updates to add more sounds, loops, effects, and fix bugs.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that the software is only compatible with Microsoft Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Newbies will have a hard time learning how to properly make use of all the features available.

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8. Acoustica Mixcraft 8 Home Studio

 

If you’re looking for affordable software that you can use to record music in the comfort of your home, the new Acoustica Mixcraft 8 seems like a reliable choice.

It allows you to record and mix audio and MIDI tracks with the help of professional synthesizers, multiple audio effects, virtual instruments, and thousands of sound effects and loops. From the first tunes to the final touches, your songs will benefit from the latest technologies in the field so you can ensure high-quality sounds.

Other features of the software allow you to play your tracks live, organize your samples, edit and score video files, and even add text titles and scrolling texts to your creations.

You’ll also have access to the new Alpha sampler to further enhance your sound. Arrange guitars, keyboards, vocals, MIDI data, and more to benefit from extended music customization and transform any original track into a fresh remix or create your own tracks.

 

Pros

The software is great for recording and mixing audio and MIDI tracks. It allows you to use high-quality synthesizers, various audio effects, professional loops, virtual instruments, and sound effects.

You can arrange keyboards, MIDI data, and guitars, as well as take a peek at the new Alpha sampler that helps you improve the sound.

By choosing this software, you’ll also have access to various features that allow you to organize your tracks and play your records live so you’ll get instant feedback from fans.

If you feel like remixes are your best shot at becoming famous, use this program to import tracks and record vocals over.

 

Cons

The product comes in the shape of a DVD so it won’t work on laptops of newer generations that don’t have a DVD port anymore.

The music library could use some updating as most of the samples provided have a very dark theme, not suitable for soft and pop songs.

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9. Acid Music Studio Version 11 Simply Creative

 

The first version of Acid was released two decades ago, becoming one of the pioneers of loop-based music production software systems. The new Studio 11 has perfected the core principles behind the original Acid and delivers increased user versatility, so you can experiment with new sounds and produce original music.

If you’re looking for a music production software with a user-friendly interface and plenty of samples to choose from, this product from Acid might represent the perfect choice for you. The 64-Bit support delivers complete creative freedom and allows you to create unique music sets on most devices.

You can choose from 8 different virtual instruments and 6 plug-in effects, as well as more than 2,500 customizable acidized loops, to finish your tracks and make them ready for the public. The premium remixing tools allow you to bring back to life old songs and give them a fresh sound.

 

Pros

The Acid software has been in the music producing industry for over 20 years, with its latest version encasing all the original principles and delivering increased versatility to users.

The product contains numerous high-quality tools for recording, remixing, and audio editing, allowing you to create DJ sets, new songs, and others.

All the loops provided by Acid contain pitch, transient data, and length so they can be modified according to your preferences.

It contains approximately 5GB of instruments and loops to practice and experiment with, so there is enough variety for all music genres.

 

Cons

It is only suitable for Microsoft users with OS 7, 8, and 10, so if you run on Mac OS, this product is not the right choice for you.

You’ll need a steady Internet connection for registering, validating the system and navigating through the individual program functions. Its offline features are limited.

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10. NCH Software MixPad Multitrack Recording Software 

 

This piece of software can be your music mixer and recording studio since it allows you to create complex audio productions with minimal hassle thanks to its intuitive and easy-to-use user interface. It lets you mix as many audio, music, and voice tracks as you want, and you can record single or multiple tracks at the same time.

Thus, while the user interface caters to the novice user, this software offers plenty of features to satisfy even the more experienced musicians. By using a single program, you get all the power of professional mixing and recording equipment at your fingertips.

It supports sample rates ranging from 6 kHz to 96 kHz, and you can export all the popular bit depths, all the way to 32bits. Furthermore, the built-in MIDI editor will let you expand your musical abilities so that you can create mashups, remixes, beats, as well as add effects to your own recorded audio.

 

Pros

You can mix as many audio, music, and voice tracks as you want so that your creativity does not get limited in any way by this software.

The user interface is very intuitive even for someone who’s never used audio editing software before since it is easy to navigate through the settings, and the drag and drop functionality is very useful.

If you’re not satisfied with the list of audio effects and instruments that MixPad has to offer, you can install additional plugins to get access to an even larger sound effect and music library.

It doesn’t require a lot of resources to run, which means that it will work smoothly even on older computers.

 

Cons

The software doesn’t seem to be able to let you highlight just a small portion of a file so that you can then compress or stretch it.

It is not the most affordable option out there.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Whether you’re looking for the best recording software, or you just want some generic music making software, you will have to think about a couple of things. First of all, you might consider your budget and how that influences your setup. Then, consider what others are using, but don’t necessarily follow them. The most important thing is to test the DAWs yourself and see which one of them is the top music production software for you.

Look for a popular software

Many aspiring music artists spend too much time searching for the perfect DAW, but most professional software do a decent job when it comes to music production. So you can just choose one of the pieces of software that you have heard of. If you want to create really complex and technical music you will need to try more of them.

You shouldn’t worry too much about the best beat making software, as no matter what you choose, it won’t impact your career too much. The important thing is how much effort you put into making your music. Furthermore, don’t worry about what users use. Some artists prefer specific software, while others do amazing things using another.

You shouldn’t forget that no matter how much you research something, the actual test is the practical one when you use the software and see what it’s capable of. That is why it’s best if you go online and download yourself a trial version of the DAW you would like to have. This is how you will see if you like the interface, the workflow, how the software responds before you go on and buy the real deal.

 

How practical is it?

One way to decide how suitable a music software is for you is to analyze the budget that you have, and set your long-term goal in mind, to see how that software will impact your budget and aspirations. Purchasing a piece of software will take some funds out of your wallet, but you also need to remember about renewing the license from time to time.

Additional plugins may be required too. There are cheap music production software that require very few plugins, whilst others will have you invest a lot more than you expected, so be careful what you choose based on that. Get all the information you can about those aspects and after that, start trying the software you like.

Also, don’t forget to get a piece of software that suits your equipment well. If you’re looking for the best music production software for beginners, chances are you’re not that willing to change your hardware because of new software. So if you have a Mac, make sure the software you choose is made for you. The same goes for PC users. Emulators work too if you have no other choice, but you know they slow things down significantly.

 

Are you a live artist?

Most of the popular production software is great in the studio, but they don’t do that well on the stage. Some of them are made to be used by live artists, and if you know you’ll be using them for that, make sure they have all the functions needed. Good integration with MIDI controllers will always help, as well as fast connectivity with VST instruments.

Some pieces of software have a setting that lets you switch to “live use”, so you should look for those. It’s great if they also allow you to save presets, matching the interface with the sound and what you see. You could say that any beat making software is decent for live performances, but you might as well be looking for one that makes the job easier.

 

Consider your level of expertise 

With countless options available on the market, you’ll need a DAW that not only is within your budget but also according to your level of expertise. If you’re looking at your first music production software, why not choose a product that comes with a user-friendly interface and step-by-step instructions on how to install it and navigate through the various features provided. 

Recording music in your bedroom mainly implies edge equipment and questionable acoustics, so spending thousands of dollars on professional software is not justified, at least not until you’re ready to fully commit to music. 

 

The Mac vs. Windows debate

Since the earliest stages of DAWs, the dispute between the most popular OS in the world has got millions of people on both sides questioning which one is best for producing music. Regardless of how trendy Macbooks might seem at the moment, the truth is that both these platforms are almost perfectly matched for media production. 

There is little difference between them so there is no need to sell one short. If you are already used to one of the OS, there is no need to switch to the other one hoping you will find features and plugins that will enhance your music production. The only thing you need to make sure of is that the DAW you’re purchasing is compatible with your OS. 

Keep in mind that some products are delivered in the form of DVDs so you won’t be able to access them if you make music on a laptop of the latest generation. Ever since a couple of years ago, most laptop manufacturers removed the DVD ports from their machines, only leaving room for USB units. 

Free updates

Some software manufacturers deliver free updates to all their customers without requiring a monthly subscription. Keep in mind that an updated version of the preferred DAW will give you access to new plugins, new songs in the Media library, and new features that allow you to enhance sounds and improve the quality of your songs. 

It may also help you fix some bugs from earlier versions and improve the overall experience of the users so they won’t need to look elsewhere. If you already found the perfect DAW for you, you shouldn’t have to pay a monthly or yearly fee to have access to its latest features. 

 

Free software and phone apps 

Phone apps may not deliver the accuracy of PC and Mac music software but come with enough features and plugins to help you get started with producing and recording your own beats. Also, it delivers improved portability and freedom of movement, given that phones and tablets are part of your daily life already. 

Some phone apps are available to download for free while others only deliver a free demo and require in-app purchases. If you’re not sure which DAW would best suit your recording needs, trying out different demo versions of recording software might help you better compare and choose the features you think are crucial. 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: What music production software do professionals use?

One of the best DAW apps (Digital Audio Workstation) that professionals use is the FL Studio since it is a software that can do a lot. After spending some time with it, even beginners can benefit from it since it provides comprehensive audio and MIDI information. With FL Studio, you can make music without live instruments since the software allows you to sample virtual instruments.

Another DAW software that pro composers and musicians use for making music is the Ableton Live. It has a large sound library that includes virtual instruments and audio tracks so that you can take pieces of a song and assemble them in real time for your audience. 

It is also one of the best DAW apps if you want to DJ a song. The only downside with this alternative is that it is one of the most expensive DAWs on the market.

Lastly, the Apple Logic Pro X is one of the most popular pro tools that musicians use, but it does come with a catch since, unlike the other DAW software on our list, this one is only available for Mac OS, and there is no Windows version.

Regardless, it still is one of the most complex pro tools currently on the market, and the learning curve isn’t as steep as with the other options.

Q: What’s a good music production software for beginners?

Nowadays, anyone can make music from the comfort of their home since there are tons of pro tools that even amateurs can use with ease. Some of the best DAW apps that beginners can use include options such as Logic Pro X, FL Studio, Ableton Live, and GarageBand.

Logic Pro X and GarageBand are both Apple products, and as such, they are only available for Apple devices. GarageBand is perfect for beginners since it is very easy to use and comes free on every Apple desktop, laptop, or iPad.

For beginners who want a user-friendly interface and industry-standard features and quality, the Logic Pro X is an excellent choice as long as you don’t mind paying for it. Learning to use it will take longer than GarageBand, but you’ll be able to create more intricate audio tracks with it.

FL Studio is one of the oldest pro tools and, while it may be the preferred tool for professionals, it doesn’t mean that beginners can’t use it. It has a clean interface, and it will let you record, edit, and mix your audio tracks so that you can create your next masterpiece.

Lastly, Ableton Live is great not only for making music but also for live performances. You can use the DAW software to record and edit your audio and MIDI tracks, and it is a perfect choice if you want to bring your music to the masses.

 

Q: Is Ableton difficult to learn?

The short answer to this question is no, but as is the case with all pro tools, if you want to understand all of its features, it will take you a while to explore everything that Ableton has to offer. The simple and clean user interface that this software has means that it is very easy to start using it right away.

While it does come with plenty of audio tracks and a comprehensive sound library that you can expand through plug-ins, it is important to note that this DAW is designed primarily for live use. Thus, you can edit your performance in real time, and everything that you need is displayed on the screen for you to adjust.

Another feature of this model that users appreciate is the ability to manipulate samples or snippets of audio. You no longer need to spend hours at recording studios to record real instruments since with this software you can simply purchase a specific sample and edit it however you want so that it fits the rest of your arrangement.

Thus, if you’re looking for pro tools that are easy to use and can be used for live performances, then you can’t go wrong with Ableton.

 

Q: What are loops in music production?

In music production loops are a section of a piece of music that is edited and cut in such a way that it can be repeated indefinitely using pro tools. Looping can also be done using a dedicated device such as a looper pedal.

This technique has originated from the tape experiments back in the 50s. Back then, the two ends of a section of tape would be spliced together so that they form a closed loop. Looping became more popular in the 60s since the technique started to be used by composers of electronic music, pop, and rock.

There is a debate in the music industry that using loops is cheating, but that’s hard to agree with, especially since, in the last decades, it has become a sort of industry standard. Loops are great for beginners since, if you are on a tight budget or timescale, it can really help you write a melody faster.

There are also many ways that you can use loops effectively so that they don’t become the focus of your melody. They can be used to accentuate the overall arrangement that you have composed. Thus, it is important to find a balance since relying too much on loops is not always the best approach.

 

Q: Can you get sued for sampling a song?

You can get sued if you sample a song the wrong way since you normally need to get the permission of both the copyright owner of the musical work and the owner of the sound recording. If you have the permission of both parties, then you can sample the song and leverage it in your own arrangement.

With that said, sample clearance is usually required only if you intend to make copies of your music and distribute it to the public. You won’t need the clearance if you only want to experiment for yourself or if you share the music with your friends or a very small group, and you don’t make them pay for it.

You can also use the sample in live shows provided that you are not making copies and the owner of the venue you’re performing in pays blanket license fees to performing rights organizations such as ASCAP or BMI.

If you are unable to get a response from the music publisher or you cannot afford the fees, as a small musician you can reduce the risks of operating without sample clearance by making the sample unrecognizable, not using the sample as the primary groove, or burying it in the mix. 

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Ableton Live 10 Standard Multitrack Recording Software

 

As the name suggests, this is the tenth reiteration of the Live software provided by Ableton. The standard variant is one of the three available ones and it offers the right mix of functionality for music producers that require more than the basic “Intro” variant and don’t need to spend that much money on the “Suite” piece of software.

It serves as a good software for those looking to get into the world of music production. You don’t have a limit on the tracks that you can create, and you get plenty of plugins, including the EQ Eight plugin, which essentially lets you analyze how your track sounds. Installing this piece of software is easy, as you only have to purchase it, and then follow the installation steps and prompts.

It is a DAW that works on both Macs and PCs, so you won’t have any issues with compatibility. This is a music production software that has two types of views. One of them is known as session view and the other as “arrange view”. The first of them is ideal for on-stage performances, while the arrange view is better for the studio if you want to create more complex pieces of music.

 

Pros

This software is one of the better choices when it comes to live performances, as the session view will allow you to make quick adjustments to the tracks you are playing, and the feature also plays the music in an endless loop.

If you want to have better control over the music you are creating, you can always work with the advanced arrange view.

There are no limits in terms of tracks that you can use and that means your song can be as thick as you want, full of instruments and effects.

You will also find it pleasing that this software works with both Mac and PC devices, so you don’t have to worry that you can’t run it somewhere.

 

Cons

If you really want to experiment with the whole ensemble of features that this software offers you will have to purchase the pricey full variant.

 

 

PreSonus Studio One 3 Artist Recording and Production Software

 

PreSonus is a brand in the music industry that offers great tools both in terms of hardware and software. As a result, their new Studio One 3 Artist DAW is one of the most capable pieces of music editing software out there.

When first looking at it, the Studio looks a bit crowded and a lot busier than other similar software. However, that is mainly due to the fact that most things are color-coded. That means you will be able to learn what each color means and have an easier time navigating the interface in no time.

This color-coding aspect helps you keep track of complicated projects. The windows, features and the interface overall are easy to memorize, but if you don’t like the way it looks you can always customize that, dragging things around.

The software now comes with a capable browsing option that lets you search for effects or samples easily. This is an important feature taking into account the huge size of the library that you can access.

It is meant to be primarily used as a recording and mixing DAW, but it also does well if you want to use it for composing.

 

Pros

The fact that this software comes with a color-coded interface means that you will get the hang of it pretty fast.

You will also be able to have a better feel of what’s on your tracks, just by having a quick look at them.

The number of effects, loops, or samples is astonishing and you will have a lot to choose from in this software’s library.

Fortunately, you also have a quick browsing function at your disposal that will get you to that sample you need.

It is one of the better choices out there when it comes to mixing.

 

Cons

This is not the full version that the company offers, and if you want to get even more features, you need to get the Pro variant.

If you stack too many samples and tracks on top of each other the software will start to run slower and slower.

 

 

Sound Forge Audio Studio Version 12

 

Available for a fraction of the cost of other professional software systems, this product delivers most of the necessary features to record, remix, and produce your own music. Thanks to the 64-bit support, you’ll access fast video sound and audio editing optimization.

The latest version boasts some new editing features, including Soft cut, slice editing, and crossfade editing to simplify studio workflows and ensure improved user experience, even if you’re a newbie. You can easily digitize records and cassettes with restoration and conversion to all standard formats, which gives you access to an infinite source of inspiration for your new sounds and tracks.

The VST3 interface allows you to edit your audio content with the help of plug-in iZotope Ozone elements. Out of all the music production software available for a similar price, this one ensures maximum customization of your sounds and allows you to record new tracks as MP3s.

 

Pros

One of the coolest features of Version 12 is the restoration and conversion option that allows you to digitize old cassettes and records and convert them to standard audio formats, including MP3. Therefore, you’ll enjoy an endless source of inspiration for creating new sounds and remixing old songs.

The enhanced restoration tools also deliver more than 20 audio effects to choose from, ensuring a unique sound quality and great customization.

The product features a user-friendly interface and represents a wonderful tool for both newbies and professionals.

It supports 64-bit formats to deliver more power and performance throughout your editing and music production experience.

 

Cons

Upon registering, you’ll have to accept Sony’s invasive privacy policy, allowing the company to use your personal information any way it seems fit. This also includes transferring the content on your user platform to theirs. Moreover, the company might not inform you of all the updates it performs.

 

 

NCH Software Crescendo Music Notation Software 

 

This piece of software is a great pick for anyone who is looking for a simple music notation program that is intuitive to use, and that comes with all the key functionality needed to arrange your professional music sheet. To make things even better, Crescendo is a free piece of software so that you can test it right away.

It is compatible with both Windows and macOS computers. It works great with interactive whiteboards and tablets, but even when using a basic PC, you can still drag and drop notes easily, and this makes creating your music very intuitive and easy. It allows for multiple lines and parts in a single system.

Once you’re done creating your music sheet, you can listen to your composition since the software has MIDI playback capability. You can also export the MIDI music files and print your finished music projects or music sheets if you want to do some hand transcription.

 

Pros

It is a simple music software that can be operated using mouse and keyboard, but it is also compatible with interactive whiteboards and tablets.

The keyboard shortcuts will let you toggle between notes and rests quickly so that you won’t have to waste time going through each setting individually.

It has no problems running even on very old computers since the system requirements are very low, and it is compatible with both Windows and macOS computers.

You can zoom in and out to make editing the music sheet easier, and there’s a history feature that lets you see all the edits and changes you’ve applied to the project.

 

Cons

While this is indeed free, it is important to know that it does contain ads that can be a bit intrusive at times.

When you first install the software, it may attempt to download additional products, so during the installation process, make sure to untick those boxes.