Since way back in the 90’s, when home recording first started…
And the earliest versions of the modern DAW began emerging…
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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.
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:
- 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
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…
10. Avid Pro Tools
In this day and age, Pro Tools has practically become a household name.
Because for many years now…
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 ?
If you’re creating an instructional video, then using a screen recording software will definitely make things easier. Moreover, recording and sharing of videos have become more common and popular than you think. You must have seen hundreds of videos with step by step guides on YouTube for troubleshooting a device. Surprisingly, most Youtubers use screen recorder apps to accomplish the task.
Here we have discussed much best screen recorder for Mac. So, let’s check out them.
Best Mac Screen Recorder 2017
1. Monosnap
Monosnap is the easiest way to capture screenshots, share files, record video and gifs. The app allows you to capture your screen in any direction whether it is a circle, rectangle, square or full screen during the recording. You can highlight vital details with pen, text, arrows, and different shapes and crop the area for a pixel perfect image with 8x magnifier. The best part about this software is, it allows you to hide your private and personal information with the blur tool.
You can use Facebook, Twitter, Evernote, Dropbox, and Monosnap’s web sharing space to share your screen recording with your friends and family in one click.
Also Read: 5 Best Duplicate Photo Cleaner Tools for Mac
2. ScreenFlow
ScreenFlow is one of the best screen recorder software for Mac. It has a user-friendly easy to edit interface that allows you to creatively edit your video, text, music, animations, and transitions for a professional-looking screencast. The app allows you to record your computer screen while capturing a video camera, iOS device, microphone, multi-channel audio device and computer audio.
ScreenFlow is a professional level screen recording software that not only helps you to combine your screen recorded content, keynote & PowerPoint presentations but also helps you to add in animations, images, text, a soundtrack in the video. You can also create picture-in-picture video with your screen recording and a video camera in no time.
3. Camtasia 3
Camtasia 3 is the best all-in-one video editor and screen recorder software which makes amazing videos and screen recordings in no time. The app allows you to record a video of your screen or bring in your own video footage. It helps you to build your videos quickly with multiple tracks for image, video, text, and audio. Best part of this software is, you don’t need a separate audio program when recording a narration for your video.
Also Read: 10 Best Backup Software For Mac In 2017
You can not only record a video on your computer screen but also bring the video in your own footage. You can also design and edit animated text, images and icons to give a crisp, polished look to your video without being a professional video editor. Camtasia 3 software allows you to share your videos to YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, Apple devices, your website, blog, and many more.
4. Snagit
Snagit is one of the best screen recording software for Mac and is used for screen capture and recording. It allows you to take a screenshot or capture a video of what you see on your computer screen and resize the captured area right down to the pixel. Snagit provides annotation varieties like arrows, speech bubbles, so that you can to easily customize your capture.
It is an excellent tool for business that helps to capture a website, record an online meeting, or send someone feedback in an email. In other words, it simply brings clarity to the information. Snagit is a professional and time-saving tool at many levels.
The app allows to take a full-page screenshot in different ways such as horizontal, vertical, or entire scrolling area with just a click. It helps you to quickly get rid of any unwanted sections from your screen recordings.
5. Jing
Jing is a screen capture software that allows you to capture any parts of your screen and save that area as a static image or even a video. In fact, it allows you to add text and draw further attention to the area you want to highlight. Like other programs, this program also allows you to share the image or video with friends and family. However, you’ll have to be logged in to screencast.com to make it work.
Thanks to its mind-blowing interface, that makes you feel like you’re working on a web application instead of a real program. The built-in feature allows you to edit the captured images and videos in your style. In short, Jing is really easy to use a program and just as good as Snagit but it is free.
6. Screen Record Studio
Screen Record Studio is a professional screen record software for Mac. Like other software, this software also allows you to easily record your computer audio, video and game. You can record single window or customize your screen for recording. The app allows you to use system build-in microphone or audio input device.
Also Read: How to Manage Your Music Library: Pro Tips
The app has an amazing feature that allows you to add text and logos on the recording. You can compress and trim recorded video on this software. Screen Record Studio allows you to share your screen recording with your friends, family, and colleagues.
7. Capto
Capto is another one of the best screen recording software for Mac that is developed by Global Delight Technologies Pvt. Ltd. It is all-in-one software that not only allows you to capture your computer screen but also allows to record your screen, edit it and share at the press of a button.
The app provides a broad range of pictures and video editing tools as well as an easily navigable folder-based organizer for your screen captures. Moreover, you can also share your videos and screenshots on popular platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Evernote and Dropbox.
8. Snapz Pro X
Snapz Pro X is a simple and easy software that allows you record anything on the computer screen. This tool is designed in such a way that you can capture your whole screen or any part of your screen. The app shows you exactly how your captured image will look like before you save it. This app has “Live Preview” features that allow you to change drop shadow, scaling, cropping and many other things.
9. OBS Studio
OBS Studio is one of the best screen recording software for Mac which is also an open source software for video recording and lives streaming. It captures real time video/audio capturing and mixing, with unlimited scenes you can switch between seamlessly via custom transitions. OBS Studio provides hundreds of filters to give a professional look to your recording.
The software provides powerful and easy to use configuration option that helps to find add new videos, duplicate existing ones, and adjust their properties effortlessly. You can also use light or dark themes as per your preferences.
10. LightShot
LightShot software is available for both Windows and Mac. The app helps you to select the area on your desktop to take a screenshot. The software also helps you to search for similar images and edit your captured images anytime. LightShot also allows you to share your screen captures and recording via Facebook and Twitter with your Macintosh. You can add effects in recording with the software before uploading it the Facebook or Twitter.
Also Read: 10 Best Video Converter Software for Mac 2017
These are 10 best screen recording software for Mac to record your favorite videos and games in no time. Do not forget to let us know which one is your favorite in the comment section below.