These are the 7 Best DAW Software Compared
In this article, we introduce you to the TOP 7 DAW softwares.
DAWs have made music production more accessible than ever before. They transform your computer into a music production tool with which you can create professional recordings even on a small budget. In this article, we present the 7 best DAW software and explain what to look for when choosing one.
What does DAW mean?
The acronym DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation - a software used for composing, producing, recording, mixing, and mastering audio and MIDI. Before computers existed, many of these tasks were done by separate hardware, such as MIDI sequencers, tape machines, mixers, and samplers. The DAW combines these processes into a single package, making it the digital heart of modern recording studios. DAWs are not only used in music production. They are also used in sound design and in podcasts.
What should be considered when choosing DAW software?
The decision largely depends on the purposes for which you want to use the DAW. The main differences between the various DAWs lie mainly in the features and workflow. If you are just starting out in music production, you can get by with entry-level versions of the DAW programs. These are included, for example, with hardware components such as MIDI keyboards and audio interfaces.
It looks different if the DAW is to be used professionally. In this case, you should make sure that there are sufficient audio and MIDI tracks, virtual instruments and plugins included. Many entry-level versions still offer the option of an upgrade, which can save costs in many cases.
Another tip for newcomers to music production: If you plan to orient yourself towards friends and colleagues or to take on joint projects with them at the beginning, you should use the same DAW software. This allows projects to be easily exchanged.
What are the best DAW software programs?
Logic Pro
GarageBand
Cubase Pro 12
Pro Tools
FL Studio
Ableton Live
Studio One1. Logic Pro
Let's start with Apple's professional DAW software Logic Pro which is only available to Mac users. It is an upgrade to the freeware GarageBand and has all the necessary tools for music production. If you already have experience with GarageBand, you will therefore find your way around quickly, not least due to the simple interface of the software.
And even a 72 GB comprehensive sample instrument and plugin library is included in the affordable DAW. In 2021, Apple also released a comprehensive update, which extended the range of functions to include features such as live looping, an improved step sequencer, and even an AI drummer.
Logic Pro Features
Numerous virtual (MIDI) instruments, including drums, synthesizers, and keyboards.
Integrated plugins and effects for mixing, such as equalizer, compressor, reverb, and delay.
Virtual amps for recording guitar and bass.
With Logic Remote, you can also control the software on the go from your iPhone and iPad.
Up to 1,000 audio tracks per project.
Logic Pro Prices
You can purchase Logic Pro in the Mac App Store for €239.99. You also have the option to download a free 90-day trial version to test all the DAW features. More information on Logic Pro prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Logic Pro Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of Logic Pro Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW program for your needs.
2. GarageBand
As already mentioned, GarageBand is Apple's DAW freeware, which you can think of as a slimmed-down version of Logic Pro. The program is already pre-installed on macOS. It also has an extensive sound library with virtual instruments and an AI drummer, as well as numerous plugins to edit and mix your audio files. In summary, GarageBand is a simple but effective tool for getting started in music production.
GarageBand Features
Up to 255 audio tracks per project.
Virtual instruments and AI drummer.
Basic tools for mixing and mastering.
Also available for iOS.
Easy integration of third-party AU plugins.
Integrated learning features for guitar and piano.
GarageBand Prices
GarageBand is a completely free DAW software that is already included in macOS. If you want a paid upgrade, however, you will have to switch to Logic Pro.
Further information about GarageBand prices and user reviews related to price can be found on OMR Reviews.
GarageBand Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of GarageBand alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW recording software for your needs.
3. Cubase Pro 12
Steinberg's Cubase is one of the first DAW software programs that has been around since 1989 and is responsible for the introduction of VST technology. Since then, the DAW has developed into a industry standard, with the program now at version 12. Cubase Pro 12 includes all the important elements of audio recording and MIDI sequencing. In addition, it offers an excellent selection of virtual instruments as well as some professional audio plugins.
Cubase Pro 12 Features
MIDI and audio tracks are easy to edit.
Simple integration of third-party VSTs.
Detailed pitch editing and time correction with the VariAudio editor.
Channel strip that emulates analog hardware sounds.
Virtual instruments and mixing plugins.
Unlimited number of audio tracks.
Cubase Pro 12 Prices
Cubase 12 is available in three versions: Elements for €89, Artist for €299, and Pro for €529. You have the opportunity to test the Pro version for 30 days without any restrictions. On OMR Reviews you can find more information about the Cubase Pro 12 prices.
Cubase Pro 12 Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of Cubase Pro 12 Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW program for your needs.
4. Pro Tools
Pro Tools is considered industry standard and is probably the most commonly used DAW in professional studios. In Pro Tools you work with two views: the mixer and the arranger / editor. Included is a wide range of professional plugins for editing your audio material as well as a handful of virtual instruments.
Even though Pro Tools' strength lies in the audio editing area, it has comprehensive MIDI functions that have evolved greatly in recent versions. However, it should be said that Pro Tools is not necessarily the first choice for electronic music, which does not mean that you cannot also implement such projects.
Pro Tools Features
Pioneer of the online cloud collaboration format for exchanging projects online.
Up to 128 audio tracks, 512 instrument tracks and 1,024 midi tracks.
High-quality plugins already included.
Integrated timing and pitch correction.
App for remote control.
Pro Tools Prices
This year, Avid Pro Tools has switched to three subscription versions: Pro Tools Artist from $9.99 per month, Pro Tools Studio from $31.99 per month, and Pro Tools Flex from $99.99 per month. An overview of the Pro Tools prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Pro Tools Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of Pro Tools Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW software for your needs.
5. FL Studio 20
FL Studio 10 (Fruity Loops) from Imagine Line is a DAW program with a different approach. The layout of this digital audio workstation software is based on the principle of a step sequencer. It's therefore not surprising that the DAW is particularly used in the field of electronic music. FL Studio has a simple but clear interface, which comes with many colors, animated displays, and a plugin picker with thumbnails. But FL doesn't have to hide in terms of instruments either - the DAW software offers countless synthesizers, pads, and drum machines.
FL Studio 20 Features
Step sequencer for fast programming of drums.
Integrated synthesizers for additive/FM synthesis and subtractive synthesis.
Complex audio routing.
Flexible audio recording and editing with Edison.
Includes useful templates and sample projects.
Up to 500 playlist tracks.
FL Studio 20 Prices
FL Studio is available in many versions. The prices start at €99 for the Image-Line FL Studio Producer Edition and go up to €165 for the Image-Line FL Studio Producer Edition and €479 for the Image-Line FL Studio All Plugins Edition. More information about the different FL Studio 20 Prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
FL Studio 20 Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of FL Studio 20 Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW program for your needs.
6. Ableton Live 11
Ableton Live 11 is a DAW geared towards both music production and live performances. Therefore, it does not have the same range of functions as some other DAWs. Instead, simplicity and a smooth workflow are prioritized. Ableton's inspiring session view makes previewing loops and putting together ideas very simple, which ultimately makes it a favorite among electronic music producers. The DAW software Ableton Live also includes many sampling and synthesis tools, as well as an impressive plugin suite with high-quality EQs, compressors, reverbs, and more.
Ableton Live 11 Features
Session view for live performance and clip improvisation.
Easy freezing and resampling.
Creative MIDI effects for note manipulation.
Simple user interface.
Useful built-in effects like delay, EQ, and reverb.
Seamless integration of MIDI controllers.
Ableton Live 11 Prices
Ableton Live is available in three versions: Ableton Live Intro for €77, Ableton Live 11 Standard for €349, and Ableton Live 11 Suite for €599. More about the Ableton Live 11 prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Ableton Live 11 Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of Ableton Live Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW music program for your needs.
7. PreSonus Studio One 6
The end of our list is Studio One 6 by PreSonus. The DAW software comes with a customizable interface and a practical drag-and-drop function for tracks and plugins. With so-called Scratch Pads, you can also try out ideas without messing up your mix and always return to any point. Studion One 6 comes with a large selection of virtual instruments and effects, and a mastering suite is also included.
PreSonus Studio One 6 Features
Automatic chord recognition.
Professional effects and software instruments.
Audio batch conversion.
Melodyne integrated.
Powerful notation and arrangement functions.
Intuitive drag & drop functionality.
Show Page for live performances.
PreSonus Studio One 6 Prices
PreSonus Studio One is available in two versions: PreSonus Studio One 6 Artist for €98 and PreSonus Studio One 6 Professional for €379. To learn more about Studio One prices, OMR Reviews is the right place to go.
PreSonus Studio One Alternative
If you're looking for an overview of PreSonus Studio One 6 Alternatives, OMR Reviews is the place to go. With the help of our verified user reviews, you are guaranteed to find the right DAW software for your needs.
Conclusion: Which DAW is the best?
As you could see in our DAW test, the tools differ in their appearance, workflow, and range of functions. Nevertheless, they all ultimately serve the same purpose - music production. What you decide on, therefore, depends entirely on what you want to do with the DAW. Of course, budget also plays a role.
If you're looking to gain initial experience and save costs at the same time, then the freeware GarageBand is the right choice. With Logic Pro, on the other hand, you get a real all-rounder - a professional DAW with an impressive bundle of virtual instruments and effects. The same applies to the pioneer Cubase from Steinberg.
For electronic music, on the other hand, you are best off with FL Studio 20 and Ableton Live. And then there's the industry standard Pro Tools, which is used in numerous recording studios worldwide. If the right software wasn't included in our DAW comparison, you will find more alternatives on OMR Reviews.
Tim ist ein freiberuflicher Journalist / Content Writer, der OMR Reviews in den Bereichen Marketing und Softwares unterstützt. Seit seinem Onlinejournalismus-Studium schreibt er unter anderem für Computer Bild, XING und Finanzcheck.de. Wenn er nicht gerade am Texten ist, spielt er auf seiner Stratocaster die Klänge von Hendrix, Frusciante und Gilmour nach.
